Five years ago, Jason Paul Curtis thrilled us with his debut “Lover’s Holiday.” Now, “These Christmas Days” continues musical holiday magic inspired by friends, fatherhood and romance. Smooth vocalist Curtis delivers his quaint, colorful lyrics with evocative confidence. The arrangements vary from intimate to lively. “December Lively” and “I Want Snow” introduce his teen-aged daughter Isabella in vocal duets written just for them. What potential she has! The proud father says, “She’s a total natural and runs circles around me.”   

The album opens with his interpretation of Irving Taylor and Dudley Brooks’ “(Everybody’s Waitin’ for the) Man with the Bag.” The top-notch stage band “Swing Shift” also accompanies Curtis on four of his eight originals presented. It’s a big sound with inspiring expression featuring trumpets, saxophones, trombones and a strong rhythm section. The second half of the album is mostly Curtis’ formidable band “Swinglab” with six accomplished instrumentalists. Curtis conveys pleasant original statements of fun, heart and romance. I especially enjoyed the sentiments of “I’ll Feel Christmas,” “Christmas Breakfast” and “New Year’s Vacation.” A beautiful arrangement of Jerome Kern and Dorothy Fields’ “The Way You Look Tonight” brings this wonderful project to conclusion. For a splendid, picturesque jazz holiday album, “yule” want to check this one out!  (Joe Ross, Roots Music Report)