The magic of Chris Botti lies in his ability to create music that walks a fine line between smooth and classic ensemble jazz, every now and then dipping into each. His first holiday offering, the bittersweet yet sublime DECEMBER, follows suit. Most of the music on the album is instrumental, featuring Botti's seductive trumpet set against an elegant background of strings (both orchestral and guitar). A few of the songs stray into upbeat territory, like "Winter Wonderland" and a Latin-edged bossa nova rendition of "Santa Claus is Coming to Town," but Botti is at his most enjoyable when the music is softer and subtly romantic. The trumpet player does a decent job singing on a couple of tracks, and has a strong line-up of backing musicians, including Peter Erskine, Shayne Fontayne, Billy Childs and R&B singer Eric Benet. A great album for the holiday season's more intimate moments.

Total Time: 52:26
TRACK TITLE TIME
1 The Christmas Song 4:32
2 Ave Maria 5:46
3 Winter Wonderland 3:08
4 The First Noel 2:50
5 Let it Snow! 4:02
6 Hallelujah 3:04
7 I Really Don't Want Much For Christmas 4:18
8 Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas 4:31
9 Santa Claus is Coming to Town 4:07
10 Silent Night 5:45
11 Little Drummer Boy 3:05
12 O Little Town of Bethlehem 3:10
13 I'll Be Home for Christmas 4:08