Mark Tremonti ‘Christmas Classics Old and New’

Written by: Jay Heilman (10/27/2023)

I have long been a big fan of Mark Tremonti’s contribution to the world of music. Whether it is crediting him for me picking up an electric guitar 25 years ago, or his work as a member of the Grammy-award winning rock band Creed or as a member or as a member of the criminally underrated rock band Alter Bridge or finally as the leader of his own solo metal band, Tremonti.  Yes, I would have to say that any music project Tremonti has been a part of over the last two plus decades, is pure gold, in my honest opinion.  With the PRS-wielding Tremonti hailed in most rock/metal circles as one of the most talented guitarists of this century, some may be somewhat surprised (I know I was), to find that aside from his rock projects in the aforementioned bands – he’s managed to impress even more music fans with his take on the classics.  And when I say classics, I mean Sinatra.  Yes. Frank Sinatra, the legendary crooner whose voice is among the most legendary of all-time.

So, when Mark released Tremonti Sings Sinatra in May 2022, he gained even more attention as a gifted vocalist in his own right, nailing down some of Ol’ Blue Eyes most memorable songs including “I’ve Got You Under My Skin”, “My Way” and “Fly Me To The Moon”.  Many critics, including myself, were not only surprised at how great he sounded on these songs, but the fact that he recorded the album with members of Frank’s own band.  This obviously added an extra dimension to an already great album, so imagine my surprise when Tremonti followed up on the success of that project with the release of his first solo Christmas album called, Christmas Classics Old and New.

The Christmas record has that same jazzy Sinatra sound to it, with Tremonti covering many of the mainstream Christmas classic hits such as “The Most Wonderful Time of the Year”, “Christmas Time” and “Let It Snow” while also including some traditional tunes like, “The First Noel” and “O Holy Night”, songs that are sung in congregations around the world every December celebrating the birth of Christ.  The track, “Christmas Morning” was one that Tremonti wrote and composed for this project, offering listeners a spirited look at the season and the joy it brings. While I am quite familiar with all of the other cuts on the album, it’s those originals that really capture my attention, and this one was a great reminder of just how much fun and excitement the Christmas season can bring.

Check out the music video for “Christmas Morning” below \/

Overall, I really think Christmas Classics Old and New will find a home in the collections of both the long-time Sinatra and jazz fans and newer listeners alike, offering both yet another album to add to those holiday music playlists.  With a great balance of mainstream and traditional numbers, this one is sure to get you and your family in the mood to celebrate the ‘the most wonderful time of the year’.

4.5/5