KYLE PEDERSON SURROUNDS CLASSIC CHRISTMAS MELODIES WITH NEW

It is safe to say you have never heard Christmas music that sounds like what you will find on the CD, titled 12.25, by the pianist Kyle Pederson. You will take a look at the tune titles and claim you have heard those melodies since the year you were born. True, but Pederson cloaks those classic refrains in completely-new arrangements with original music framing the parts that sound familiar. It is a unique, but stunning approach. For examples, you will probably find “Silent Night,” “O Come All Ye Faithful” and “God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen” just barely recognizable. This is solo piano music, and Pederson’s style and technique are strong and exciting. He is especially good with his left-hand chording. What a great way to freshen up your Christmas music listening this year!