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Crystal Drake Delivers A ‘Snowburst’ of Holiday Spirit In Her Christmas Classics EP

Snowburst is the soul-pop artist’s decadent interpretation of four iconic holiday classics; Drake stays true to their traditional roots while invigorating them with a modern flare.

Chicago based soul-pop artist Crystal Drake makes her mark on the holiday season with her jubilant Christmas Classics EP, Snowburst, out November 19th. Her undeniably sultry, comforting vocals take the spotlight on this project; she breathes charisma, joy, and nostalgia into every track with her refined style and delivery. From the jazzy groove on “Santa Claus Is Comin’ To Town” to the pristine harmonies on “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing,” Drake has something for everyone on this EP. For the Chicago native, these songs represent beloved holiday traditions. She says, “these carols and the accompanying annual holiday preparations bring a sense of seasonality to our days, attuning us to the rhythm of our lives”. Snowburst is a gorgeous recount of Drake’s most sentimental Holiday favorites that reminds listeners of the magic that makes this the most wonderful time of the year.

Stream ‘Snowburst’ on all major streaming platforms on November 19th.

The four track EP is a collection of deeply loved christmas tunes including “Santa Claus Is Comin’ To Town,” “O Holy Night,” “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing,” and “Auld Lang Syne.” Listeners can expect a dazzling introduction on “Santa Claus Is Comin’ To Town” with the simple, keys and bass led arrangement behind Drake’s impressive, buttery display of vocal finesse. On “O Holy Night,” delicate strings and keys caress Drake’s glimmering vocals before delay-kissed, staccato synths embellish the track. The second half of the carol’s production blossoms into a masterfully composed classical + pop fusion that will undoubtedly catch the listener’s attention. Drake mesmerizes fans with her pitch perfect harmonies on “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing,” and quickly transitions to the enticing pop production layered behind the classic “Auld Lang Syne” to finish the project. She says, “[her] intention with this EP was to honor the melodies and historic integrity of the songs while modernizing them with phrasing and vocal arranging.” The final product delivered to listeners achieves this and so much more.

More about Crystal Drake:

Crystal Drake is a soul pop singer whose earthy vocals have been described as “refined” and “emotionally charged.” Her powerfully earnest singing borrows from gospel and soul traditions. Crystal’s songwriting is thoughtful, grounded and moving. “We all need a little push to believe, to appreciate, to listen and to love.” Her soulful voice nudges us to feel and remember that we are divine.

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Electronic

Sweet C’s “Good Dogs Go to Heaven” is a tribute to love and loss that will lift your spirits

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Sweet C’s latest single, “Good Dogs Go to Heaven,” featuring Vocals via Musiversal, is a lively New Orleans jazz tune that mixes heartfelt storytelling with catchy rhythms. Inspired by the loss of Sweet C’s cherished Yellow Lab, this song is a joyful celebration of the special connection between people and their pets. “Good Dogs Go to Heaven” draws you into a fun jazz experience, featuring cheerful brass sounds and a beat that feels like a walk through the lively streets of New Orleans. While it’s upbeat and lively, the song also carries an emotional weight that speaks to anyone who has felt the sadness of losing a dog.

Sweet C’s message is refreshingly optimistic; instead of focusing on sadness, the song encourages listeners to cherish the happiness, loyalty, and love that dogs bring into our lives. This single stands out because of its heartfelt vocals, which add a genuine touch to the jazzy music. The singer’s voice feels warm and welcoming, embracing the listener like a comforting hug, perfectly matching the song’s theme. It’s the kind of singing that feels both personal and uplifting like a friend gently reassuring you that your good dog is now in a better place and that their spirit is still with you.

“Good Dogs Go to Heaven” is a song you’ll want to include in all your jazz playlists because it tells a universal story through the lively New Orleans jazz style. Whether you love dogs, enjoy jazz, or just need some uplifting music, Sweet C’s new single touches on all the right feelings. In a world that can sometimes feel heavy, “Good Dogs Go to Heaven” is a joyful reminder that love and music can heal even the deepest hurts. Sweet C has created a fun track to celebrate our beloved pets and the lasting joy they leave behind, a tune that will have you tapping your feet and dancing long after it ends.

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Music

Olaf Olsen’s “Small Day Tomorrow – Radio Edit” is a jazz treasure rekindled with soulful flair

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Olaf Olsen’s latest single, “Small Day Tomorrow – Radio Edit,” is a heartfelt tribute to jazz music, offering a fresh and cozy vibe that immerses listeners in a warm, intimate setting. This is a true labor of love, filled with the warmth and wisdom of jazz legend Sheila Jordan, who is lovingly called the First Lady of Jazz. What makes the story behind this song even more special is that Sheila Jordan herself encouraged Olaf to take on this Bob Dorough classic. Her recommendation adds a unique touch to this version and hints at something special.

Olaf approached this project with respect for the original while also adding his own creative twist. The musical arrangement is simple yet rich. Featuring piano, double bass, and drums, it creates a lush, inviting sound that feels both timeless and refreshingly modern. The standout moment comes from trumpet player Fabien Mary, whose performance strikes a perfect balance between intensity and calm. His playing weaves seamlessly through the song, enhancing the emotional depth without overshadowing its gentle nature. What truly sets “Small Day Tomorrow – Radio Edit” apart is its ability to capture the spirit of jazz’s golden age while making it feel relatable for today’s listeners.

Olaf Olsen’s singing is warm and sincere, expressing the deep emotions that make classic songs timeless. There’s a natural flow to his voice as if he’s having a conversation with the audience, inviting them to join in on the stories that jazz tells. This single is a retelling of a classic song and a fresh take that honors the past while bringing new energy to it. Jazz fans and newcomers will find something to love here, a beautiful reminder of how jazz connects people across generations. In short, “Small Day Tomorrow – Radio Edit” by Olaf Olsen captures a small, perfect moment in music, offering a hopeful glimpse into the future of jazz.

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