By James Calemine
Originally released in 1985, Ray Charles’ The Spirit of Christmas ranks as one of the most soulful Christmas albums ever recorded. Concord Records re-released this holiday classic. The Spirit of Christmas kicks off with the Ray Charles digital-only release on Concord.
Charles performs holiday standards such as “What Child Is This”, “The Little Drummer Boy”, “Santa Claus Is Comin’ To Town”, “This Time of Year”, “Rudolph The Red Nosed Reindeer”, “That Spirit of Christmas”, “All I Want For Christmas”, “Christmas In My Heart”, “Winter Wonderland”, “Christmas Time” and a bonus track called “Baby It’s Cold Outside” that features Betty Carter.
The Spirit of Christmas proves a perfect soundtrack for the season. Ray Charles’ eternal soul emerges in these old songs that lift the heart and minds of children and adults alike. Merry Christmas!