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 Jonathon Butler & Dave Koz |
 Dave Koz |
 Dave Koz |
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Story and photos by Andy Argyrakis No matter how many Christmas collections and concerts Dave Koz put together throughout the last two decades and change, he's never one to repeat himself, even if some elements retain tradition. The 2019 "Gifts Of The Season" outing behind that very album was no exception, bringing together brand new tunes and refreshed versions of previously recorded favorites.On stage at the historic Chicago Theatre, each category reached their maximum potential thanks to jazz's leading sax man, alongside jazz/gospel guitarist Jonathan Butler, Grammy-winning singer/songwriter Melissa Manchester, plus fellow saxophonist Michael Lington and vocalist/bassist Chris Walker (previously the musical director for the late legend Al Jarreau). The over two-hour evening started with simply the man who made it all happen, planted front and center under a swirl of spotlights to the easygoing glow of "Winter Wonderland." From there, the guests were gradually introduced, starting with Butler for the breezy "It's The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year" as the lavish production kept revealing scenes on the jumbo screen to match each mood. The longtime pals even got their own cartoon caricatures playing along above them, while soon finding further strength in numbers when Lington joined in for the soulful "This Christmas," Manchester reworked "All I Want For Christmas Is You" as a gentle ballad and Walker took the crowd straight to church as he pondered "Mary, Did You Know?" The holidays may have been the primary focus of the flashy show, but going back to everyone's standard catalogues was also a treat, especially in the case of Manchester, who offered another chance to cherish "Looking Through The Eyes Of Love," "Midnight Blue," "Don't Cry Out Loud" and "Whenever I Call You 'Friend.'" Koz sparkled on smooth staples "Silver Lining" and "You Make Me Smile," introduced the inspirational "A Prayer For Peace" and funked up his Hanukkah celebration "Eight Candles." In addition, Walker scatted confidently around his former boss' "Mornin'" and Lington gave Wham's "Last Christmas" a sophisticated slant, but it was Butler's praise-infused version of "O Holy Night" that the headliner correctly insisted was a serious factor in attracting annual attendees. All the performers linked back up at the end to deliver Jarreau's "We're In The Love Together" and The O'Jays' "Love Train," neither of which were necessarily seasonal selections, but fittingly called for unity as the ultimate gift that keeps on giving. |
 Dave Koz at The Chicago Theatre |
 Dave Koz & Jonathon Butler |
 Dave Koz |
 Dave Koz |
 Dave Koz & Jonathon Butler |
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