While Christmas albums generally conjure images of frosty windowpanes and chimney smoke wafting above snow-dusted pine trees, this holiday CD by dulce VAS is more evocative of red rock canyons and cactus-dotted desert landscapes. Not surprising however, given that the group who is based in Phoenix, Arizona, specializes in music that “embodies the breath-taking panorama of the Southwest.” Two members comprise the nucleus of the group. On flute is Sherry Finzer, whose relaxing “Sanctuary” and “Sanctuary ll: Earth” CD’s I’ve enjoyed reviewing recently. Providing some yang to her yin is VeeRona Ragone, whose virtuosity on the electric harp is impressive, to say the least. She also deserves credit for the arrangements on the album. It’s a stunning combination that makes for some interesting listening, especially given their choice of material. They are joined on this CD by bassist Tom Williams as well as Joe Garcia and John Herrera on percussion.

On the appropriately named “Christmas Picante” they interpret a number of holiday favorites with their own special twist – a twist of lime, of course. The results are some very cool, or should I say “hot” renditions of Christmas classics. The album gets off to a bouncy upbeat start with a spicy rendition of “Feliz Navidad” perfect for salsa dancing around the Christmas tree. A grooving bass line and conga beat kick off a jazzy version of “O Come All Ye Faithful”. While “dashing through the snow” is not exactly the image you get in this Southwestern soundscape, their take on “Jingle Bells” definitely soars, dashes, and makes spirits bright. I appreciate the creative liberties and artistic license that dulce VAS has taken with all the songs on the album, presenting them with a fresh perspective that allows one to hear songs that they’ve heard their whole life in a new way.

For a full-length review of this CD, as well as others, please visit: www.MichaelDiamondMusic.com
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Simply the best Christmas album you may hear. Dulce Vas captures the spirit of the Christmas season with lovely arrangements and stunning harmonies. But it is the blend of harp and flute, that sweet tintinnabulation, that brings you home for Christmas. Beautifully done!!
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