Garden Groove Collective’s “This Christmas Cover” is a delightful reimagining of a holiday classic, showcasing the band’s eclectic blend of musical influences. With its official release on December 13, 2024, the track captures the group’s unique sound, merging soul, jazz, rock, and metal into a festive, toe-tapping rendition of “This Christmas.” The group’s ability to infuse their personalities into the song is immediately apparent, making it both familiar and fresh at the same time. Drawing inspiration from the original and Cee Lo Green’s iconic version, the band still manages to carve out their own distinctive style, allowing each member’s background to shine.
At the heart of the track is Brooke Patty’s soulful lead vocals, which give the song a smooth and heartfelt quality. Her voice effortlessly floats over the vibrant instrumentation, pulling the listener into the holiday spirit. The arrangement also leans heavily on Hayes Bromley’s classically trained keys, which give the song a jazzy edge, while Aaron Baddley’s ethereal guitar tones add dreamy textures that make the track feel both nostalgic and modern. Meanwhile, Tai Olson’s dual role as bassist and backup vocalist provides a solid foundation, while Ben Patty’s drumming rooted in rock and metal traditions, adds a driving energetic pulse. This perfect mix of styles is what sets Garden Groove Collective apart, as they balance elements of soul and rock with intricate jazz harmonies and a touch of dreamy introspection.
The production of “This Christmas Cover” further enhances the track’s charm. Recorded and mastered by Andrew Jose in Salt Lake City, the session took place around Halloween, adding a curious, eerie vibe to the recording process. The subtle influence of the spooky season can be heard in the way the track swells and dips, adding an unexpected layer of intrigue to the festive cheer. Jose’s meticulous touch brings out the best in each musician, allowing their individual strengths to shine while maintaining a cohesive sound that still feels like a unified whole. It’s clear that, though this is a holiday single, Garden Groove Collective is already evolving into something much more and this release hints at the potential of their full studio album set for 2025.
What makes this cover particularly special is the deep connection the band has with the song. “This Christmas” wasn’t just chosen because it’s a popular holiday track; it’s a song that holds personal significance for the group. After performing the tune at a Christmas show following their first performance at Ben and Brooke’s wedding, the song became a staple of their setlist. Setting a goal to release their own version the following year, the band dedicated themselves to perfecting their craft, and this cover represents a significant milestone in their artistic journey. It’s not only a musical statement but a reflection of the band’s growth and the deepening bond among its members.
The release of “This Christmas Cover” is not just a fun holiday offering but a glimpse into the future of Garden Groove Collective. It marks the beginning of their musical evolution, as they prepare for their debut album in 2025. By blending holiday cheer with their eclectic sound, the band demonstrates an impressive ability to push boundaries and redefine expectations. Whether you’re a fan of jazz, soul, rock, or metal, this cover provides something for everyone, and it’s a perfect introduction to what promises to be an exciting future for this talented ensemble.
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