Songs in the Key of Sleep, Vol. 3: Winter Whispers is the third installment in a series of solo piano albums by Michael John Hall. The other two albums in the series are Vol. 1: Lullabies at Midnight and Vol. 2: Night Vigil; both were released earlier this year. Quoting the artist: “Winter Whispers is a 17-track solo piano album intended to carry listeners gently from autumn through the holidays and into the new year, combining familiar melodies with my original title composition.” The tracks are a varied lot, but Michael gives them all a graceful, lyrical touch that keeps the mood consistent without ever becoming boring or clichéd. That might not sound too remarkable, but when you look at the titles of the songs, it’s a very impressive mix! One track combines “Jolly Old Saint Nicholas” and “Silent Night” - and it works! Michael describes the album as: “a 17-track musical journey that begins in autumn, moves gently through the holiday season, and ends with ‘Auld Lang Syne’ and the new year.” An antidote for what can become a rather frenzied time of year, this is the perfect music for a quiet evening by the fireplace, background music for a holiday meal, time for reflection, and so much more. The overall style is quiet and peaceful, but Michael’s arrangements are far from simplistic or boring. In a nutshell, it’s a really special holiday album!

Winter Whispers begins with “Autumn Leaves,” a favorite song of mine since I was a kid. Michael’s arrangement is warm, dreamy and more than a little wistful - a great start! “Moonlight in Vermont” follows, bringing peaceful images of light dancing on sparkling snow. The title track, “Winter Whispers,” is Michael’s original composition, and it flows freely and effortlessly. His arrangement of “Pachelbel’s Canon in D” begins with an original prelude before the very familiar melody enters followed by a number of graceful variations on the theme. “Carol of the Bells” is one of the most versatile Christmas pieces out there and stands up to so many different styles, genres and approaches. Michael’s arrangement keeps it pretty straight-forward while expressing deep emotion - beautifully done! With all of the Christmas music I’ve reviewed, taught, and played, I don’t think I’ve ever heard “Frosty the Snowman” as a soulful ballad before now, and it’s a total charmer! “Dashing Through the Snow” is primarily a minor key arrangement of “Jingle Bells” that works exceptionally well! Vince Guaraldi’s “Christmastime is Here” is a favorite from the Peanuts TV specials, and Michael keeps it dreamy and relaxed. Like “Carol of the Bells,” “God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen” holds up beautifully in a wide variety of styles - from upbeat and rockin’ to quieter and more subdued. Michael combines it with “My Favorite Things” to create an utterly charming medley that is peaceful and reflective. The last of the Christmas songs on the album is a sincere and heartfelt “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.” The album closes with the traditional New Year’s Eve song, “Auld Lang Syne.” Played slower than you usually hear it, the beauty of the melody is remarkable - perfect for saying “so long” to the old year and welcoming the new one with loved ones and a sparkling glass of champagne!

Songs in the Key of Sleep, Vol. 3: Winter Whispers would be an excellent addition to anyone’s holiday albums and provides close to an hour of peaceful music that flows from the heart. It is available to stream and download on Amazon and Apple Music/iTunes as well as on many streaming platforms including Spotify and Pandora. I give it both thumbs up!