Customer Reviews

Gabriel's Message

5 star:		(4)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Not only did I buy one for myself, but I'm also giving away five more as gifts to friends and family! Matt Herskovitz'music is worthy of much praise. Equally so it is worthy of considerable listening time at which one will certainly enjoy his "new takes" on many familiar holiday songs. In particular I enjoyed his improvisation of Rudolph and Frosty. What a surprise to hear such magnificent piano playing attached to familiar tunes. Mr. Herskovitz is clearly talented and has provided us with a new holiday CD which will stand the test of time, from one Christmas to the next.

I had the pleasure of hearing this fascinating holiday music live in New York last night at the Flea Theatre in New York, and I have to say that the cd captures the passion and excitement of Mr. Herskowitz's live performance. Such a new approach to traditional holiday music! Gabriel's Message is sure to be a part of my family's holidays for many years.

PJ Ewing

this is great for those of us who get tired of same old...same old... these tunes are real alternative carols; beautiful, slow version of frosty, jazz version of rudolph, etc. all the tunes are recognizable, but different from arrangements usually heard. i really like it a lot.

This is the holiday album I have waited for. The variation and creativity bring back the sensitivity and creativeness musicians forged centuries ago. The wonderful arrangements and variations expand the original music in praise of the composer, heritage and power each piece has. The music brings praise to the Almighty in Mr. Herskowitz' use of the wonderful gifts bestowed on him by God. This CD will be the mainstay of holiday banquets, intimate evenings, and family celebrations this year and for many years to come.

Christmas albums have to fulfil 2 objectives, they must be uplifting and pleasant music for festive occasions and they must be able to meld into the background without disturbing the family gathering. Well, I think I found the perfect Christmas album that will work in the background as well as a centrepiece. The songs are for the most part classics, music we all know and love, Matt Herskowitz surprised me often with personal touches and improvisational side trips.

Solo piano is so lovely when it's done right, I think this one is done right. I may not be a connoisseur but this album will work for me for the next couple of dozen Christmas seasons,

I will certainly be giving one to my Mother this year.