Alexis Cole

I recently received a copy of Alexis Cole's Christmas CD, The Greatest Gift,  in the mail and I am happy to tell you that it's wonderful!  If you like jazz and Christmas music, I'm sure it will become a favourite
of yours too.

Alexis has teemed with her Dad and a host of other musicians and technicians to produce this album.  It has a mix of familiar carols and some new, original songs as well.  I like the way they've redone
traditional songs and given them a very jazzy feeling.  Some instrumental pieces are also included - the sax, percussion and flutes are outstanding.   At times the music is reflective, at other times it's very upbeat and one piece has a distinct Asian feel (love track 5).  The instrumental work is outstanding - even to my relatively untrained ear :))  My very favourite song, and the one that I keep humming after it's done,  is the last track, "Jesus Is The Best Part of Christmas."

What I absolutely love about this project is that Alexis is donating 100% of the proceeds from
this album to World Bicycle Relief!    Their mission statement is "providing access to independence and livelihood through the power of bicycles".  Established in 2004 after the tsunami in Asia, 24,000 bicycles were shared in Sri Lanka and the project has now expanded to several African countries.    While visiting Kenya and Tanzania this fall, I saw firsthand how having a bicycle impacts lives and provides opportunities to people.  Instead of walking and having to carry everything, people are able to ride to work, to school, to medical care, and can haul food (even milk in cans!), water, building materials, charcoal and another person.  This project is really and truly making a difference in the lives of people!  Check it out and consider giving the fund your support.

And so I am happy to recommend this CD tell you that I will be purchasing some of them to share with music lovers that I know.  Please look for Alexis' album and try it for yourself.  Here's one song for you to enjoy!





Thanks to Adam at Two Sheps That Pass, a marketing and consultation company, who contacted me and sent the CD  to review.  This was a first for me!