Keys of Christmas is a collection of three traditional and six original Christmas carols composed and arranged by Louis Colaiannia. Colaiannia performs on piano and synthesizer and is joined on vocals by Jenna Ehrle (not all tracks have vocals). Instrumentation includes bass, cello, guitar, drums, and sax as well as synthesized orchestration. Most of the music is bright and cheerful in mood while a few of the songs are more dreamy and peaceful.

The album begins with a lovely arrangement of “Hark the Herald Angels Sing” performed on keyboard with string accompaniment - a gentle and soothing opening to set the mood! “Sea Of Stars” features Jenna Ehrle’s vocals and Rex Spease on sax in addition to Colaiannia’s piano and keyboard. The vocals and sax carry the melody as the piano sparkles in the background. “Home and Hearth Light” is much lighter and more joyful. The piano is front and center this time with fingers dancing all over the keyboard as the sax swirls around the melody. “Eyes of a Child” has a moderate folk dance tempo and a spirit that expresses anticipation and fun. The sound of laughing children at the end is charming and touching. I really like the warmth and gentleness of Colaiannia’s arrangement of “O Tannenbaum.” Piano, keyboard, and light orchestration evoke visions of a beautifully-decorated Christmas tree sparkling and glittering in all of its glory. “Sailing On a Dream” is a hopeful and dreamy closing track. Piano carries the lovely melody while synth orchestration paints washes of soft pastel color in the background.

Keys of Christmas is a sweet Christmas confection - especially if you are looking for an album with only a few traditional carols. It is available from www.louismusic.com, Amazon, and iTunes.