(November _, 2022) We are at the start of the Christmas season, which means it is time for holiday music to rule our listening. While it’s easier for some artists to cover familiar songs, others may take on the more daunting task of crafting original songs for the season. The latter route is what saxophonist Gary Palmer decided to take for his latest single, “Glad To Be With Ya (On Christmas).”
Only a few years into a musical career after a successful career in law enforcement, Palmer has the sound of a seasoned veteran on this midtempo cut. Featuring Kevin Foster on vocals and production, this song speaks of being with the one you love during the Christmas season. Palmer’s sax is pronounced and given plenty of room to explore, while Foster’s vocals are sprinkled throughout the melody and verses in a complimentary way. Roots in smooth jazz with hints of R&B allow this song to be flexible enough to stand on its own as a solid song, not just simple a holiday feel-good tune.
“Glad To Be With Ya (On Christmas)” is a welcome addition to both holiday and smooth jazz playlists and serves as a nice contribution by Gary Palmer to the ever evolving list of great contemporary original Christmas songs.
By Keivu Knox
Gary Palmer feat. Kevin Foster
“Glad To Be With Ya (on Christmas)”
