The Ritz

The Ritz, a vocal quartet similar in many way to the Manhattan Transfer, never really got consistent nationwide airplay or recognition from jazz fans, in spite of putting out a series of enjoyable CDs for Denon. This Christmas release, recorded in the late '80s, showcases their tight harmonies, though none of the vocal soloists is identified on a track-by-track basis. The session is a bit uneven, with a dreadful cover of Paul McCartney's "Wonderful Christmas Time" that is handicapped both by the smooth jazz instrumental backing and the song's banal lyrics, as well as a similarly blandly arranged original, "The Spirit of Christmas." Far better are the bop-oriented dash through "Sleigh Ride," the lovely a cappella versions of "Silent Night" and "Carol of the Bells," and the dreamy take of "The Christmas Song." Long since deleted from Denon's catalog, it should still be relatively easy to find a copy for those who enjoy Christmas releases. ~ Ken Dryden, All Music Guide