Martin Sexton, called by Billboard “a vocalist of amazing proficiency and sensual conviction," has completed a holiday album titled Camp Holiday, which he recorded in a cabin deep within the Adirondack Mountains. The album, which was “soft-released" in the fall of 2005, will finally reach brick and mortar retail on October 10.
You could almost smell the wood smoke as songs like “Blue Christmas" fill the room. Unencumbered by the distractions of big production, the simplicity allows this one-man band to shine like the brightest bulb on the tree using his body as a drum, his voice like a trumpet and his spaghetti strainer as percussion.
Camp Holiday is the perfect winter companion, complete with quintessential festive ingredients: the warmth of a timeless classic in “I'll Be Home for Christmas," the joy of a swinging “Holly Jolly," a family gathering in “Silent Night" -- where his father and daughter sit in--and a timely rendition of “Let There Be Peace on Earth."
The holiday spirit of giving is not lost on this album either. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to Camp Sunshine, a retreat for children with life threatening illnesses.
Sexton, a Massachusetts-based troubadour who's no stranger to the road, has been widely hailed by critics. The Wall Street Journal called him “an impassioned performer who can bring women and men to tears when they see him live." The New York Times said “he can turn an ordinary song into a jazzy showcase" and “his unpretentious heartiness helps him focus on every soul singer's goal: to amplify the sound of the ordinary heart." And Acoustic Guitar called him “not just a good singer, songwriter and musician. He's a musical adventurer and innovator" and cited his “mad scientist approach."
Reviewing the album last year while in its “soft release," the Washington Post commented, “Anyone who has grown impatient with the crass commercialism of the season should check out this CD, recorded with tender simplicity and genuine fireside warmth in an Adirondack mountain cabin."
Martin Sexton will tour throughout the fall and winter including selected holiday radio shows in major markets.
For more information contact All About Jazz.
