CD SCORE REVIEW
Vince Guaraldi Quintet - A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving
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Genre: Jazz, Soundtrack
Year Released: 1973, 2023 CD/Vinyl
Runtime: 38m
Where To Listen: available now here www.mvdshop.com, or  www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: Immerse yourself in the new release, VINCE GUARALDI QUINTET - A CHARLIE BROWN THANKSGIVING. This blast from the past is a welcome addition to any fan of Charlie Brown or The Peanuts family. This album isn't just a compilation of tracks; it's a journey that revisits the Peanuts' world together and sounds better than ever for new audiences and die-hard fans alike.

The centerpiece of this auditory escapade is Vince Guaraldi's exceptional musical talent. He weaves a tapestry of sound that captures the holiday spirit in a way only he can. Each track in this release is a pleasant surprise, marrying the familiar with the innovative to create an unparalleled holiday listening experience. The tracks are all remixed and remastered, and the album sounds fresh and crystal clear, offering that unique warmth and familiarity from a tradition 50 years in the making.

The standout track (from what I can tell, pretty much universally), “Little Birdie,” is where Guaraldi’s underutilized vocal prowess meets the infectious rhythms of East Bay funk. This track, a cornerstone of the Thanksgiving special, serves up an array of musical styles, combining swing with a hint of whimsy and a touch of elegance. It's as if Snoopy and Woodstock's antics are narrated through Guaraldi’s lively jazz tunes.

The album is a collaborative effort featuring the musical talents of Seward McCain on electric bass, Mike Clark on drums, Tom Harrell on trumpet, and Chuck Bennett on trombone. They join Guaraldi’s iconic piano to produce a rich and diverse soundscape. Each instrument plays a pivotal role in telling the story, adding its unique flavor to the narrative.

A notable aspect of this release is its shift away from Guaraldi's more introspective piano melodies. The album takes several cues from the 1970s funk scene. This bold direction adds an electrifying energy to the tracks, turning them into toe-tapping tunes.

The album reimagines classics like "Linus and Lucy" and "Thanksgiving Theme" in a new light. For example, the transformed "Linus and Lucy" is a triumph of brass and trumpet, elevating the familiar tune into an anthem of holiday cheer. A genuine level of respect was given to this release; while turning things up to eleven, the album also preserves the classic sound and feel.

A look behind the scenes reveals Guaraldi's intricate creative process. The album's alternate takes, bonus mixes, and reprises offer a glimpse into the careful crafting of these iconic scores, akin to a director’s cut in the film world.

To summarize, VINCE GUARALDI QUINTET - A CHARLIE BROWN THANKSGIVING is more than just a collection of holiday tunes. It's a musical odyssey that seamlessly blends the timeless charm of the Peanuts with a fresh, cleaned-up sound. It's a testament to Guaraldi's lasting legacy and an essential addition for anyone seeking to add a dash of jazz and funk to their holiday music repertoire. If you grew up on Peanut’s TV specials, this is a must-own for any fan!

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[photo courtesy of MVD ENTERTAINMENT, LEE MENDELSON FILM PRODUCTIONS]

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