Jane Monheit, The Merriest Review

Jane Monheit’s The Merriest: A Jazzy Embrace of the Holiday Spirit

By Sylvannia Garutch

Jane Monheit brings her vocal jazz enchantment to the holiday season with her latest release, The Merriest, an album that warmly embraces the essence of Christmas with a signature blend of sophisticated swing and vocal finesse. Released on November 11, 2022, under Club44 Records, The Merriest marks Monheit’s second festive venture since 2005’s The Season, reminding listeners why her voice is a perfect match for the joy and nostalgia of the holidays. Produced by Rick Montalbano, this collection brings the coziness of a December evening by the fire, while showcasing the full spectrum of Monheit’s vocal talent.

Monheit’s affection for the holiday repertoire is evident throughout The Merriest. In her words, “I’ve always been a person who loves the holiday season. I look forward to it all year, especially the wonderful songs we only get to experience during the month of December.” This sense of love and excitement is present in every track as she breathes new life into classic tunes. From “Christmas Time Is Here” to “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year,” Monheit layers each song with rich, jazz-infused nuances, offering the listener a comforting blend of tradition and artistry.

The Merriest is nine lush orchestrations that support Monheit’s sultry vocal interpretations. “Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!” has a playful interplay between Monheit and pianist Max Haymer, bringing a lighthearted sense of swing to the snowy classic. Meanwhile, “The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire)” showcases Monheit at her most introspective, her vocals caressing each phrase with a tangible warmth, accompanied by a soft, glowing piano that seems to evoke the flickering embers of a fireplace.

John Pizzarelli makes a delightful guest appearance on the album for a duet of “That Holiday Feeling,” the two artists create a spirited and conversational chemistry brimming with festive joy. It’s a duet of playful singing and heartfelt emotions, leaning into the nostalgic side of the holidays while steering clear of clichéd territory. Their interaction feels genuine, as Pizzarelli’s guitar and vocal interplay with Monheit adds a spark that makes the performance feel entirely fresh.

Monheit also treats listeners to the first-ever recording of Cy Coleman’s “(Christmas) Stay With Me,” an addition destined to become a new holiday favorite. The song’s Broadway pedigree shines through, with Monheit delivering a performance that’s both intimate and theatrical—a balance she navigates with ease, offering a rendition that evokes the warmness of a fireside gathering while maintaining the drama of a Broadway stage. Monheit’s talent for storytelling is evident, as she paints the emotions of longing and celebration with every note.

“It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year” receives a Latin twist, showcasing Monheit’s versatility and her innate ability to make each song her own. The upbeat rhythm and Afro-Latin accents add an unexpected but delightful layer of movement, reimagining the classic tune in a vibrant and danceable way. Similarly, “Christmas Time Is Here” leans into the dramatic, with Monheit drawing out the melancholy sweetness of Vince Guaraldi’s classic in a cabaret style, backed by softly swinging strings that evoke the wistful charm of the season.

With The Merriest, Jane Monheit revisits beloved Christmas standards with her own signature touch—transforming them into expressions of joy, warmth, and nostalgia. Monheit’s voice embodies the spirit of the holidays with elegance and warmth, and the approach to these songs is marked by the same balance of reverence and creativity that has defined her career, breathing new life into familiar melodies without ever losing sight of their emotional core. The Merriest offers a perfect soundtrack for those seeking a Christmas album that captures the season’s magic with a blend of traditional warmth and jazz sophistication.