“A veritable Christmas basket, overflowing with musical treats. Smith’s mahogany and O’Reilly’s pure crystal tones wash over the listener.”
This very special CD available again in limited quantity.
Produced by Jamie O’Reilly © J. O’Reilly Productions, Chicago
Executive Producer Judith Svalander
Listen to “The Magi”
Listen to ” A Wanderer Am I”
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Michael Smith was commissioned to write this music for an Americana ballet by Judith Svalander, artistic director of the Judith Svalander Dance Theatre.
Based on O. Henry’s beloved story, this CD album features the musical team of Jamie O’Reilly, (Vocals, Producer) & Michael Smith, (Vocals, Guitar, Composer). Musical styles from a variety of American traditions – music and dance theater, turn of the century style parlor music and vaudeville, and folk.
Shimmering, polished performances by the duo and a stellar musical ensemble, as they perform on 15 exciting tracks, including 13 danceable tunes, from waltzes to swing, a soft shoe, a foxtrot, a gypsy dance, witty novelty songs, tender love duets and Christmas carols. On the CD Michael reads several excerpts from the O. Henry story. The CD is set in a lush and lovely Vaudeville style Old New York poster design.
Songs are performed on a variety of guitars, violin, cello, bass and piano. Jamie and Michael provide the lead vocals. With Pat Fleming (Guitars), Miriam Sturm (Violin), Bob Weber (Cello), Katrina O’Reilly Loundy (Piano), Al Ehrich (Bass) and Anne Hills (Guest Vocals).
Reviews
“Beautiful voice, appropriate songs, talented musicians, great Christmas story
The Gift of the Magi is one of my facorite Christmas stories. This beautiful CD has only enhanced the pleasure that the story now brings. I will make it part of a Christmas tradition in my home. I have also bought a video version so we can read, watch and listen to the lovely, appropriate music.”
Do not hesitate to check this out!
“There is no other song writer and performer like Michael Smith. He is a national treasure. Couple him with Jamie O’Reilly on this wonderful presentation and you have magic. Do not hesitate to check this out!”
“A veritable Christmas basket,overflowing with musical treats…..Smith’s mahogany and O’Reilly’s pure crystal tones wash over the listener. ‘On Our Own’ brings my wife and I back to that thrilling, scary moment when we sat in the window of our first little apartment in wonderment.”
“Glorious voice, wonderful songs, makes my holiday special, thank you!
This has always been one of my favorite Christmas stories and I so appreciate the appropriate songs. The lyrics are perfect and capture the essence of O. Henry’s story.”
Pleasant and memorable melodies!
“Tunes that continue to be good listening, long after Christmas. Consistently interesting, solid performances–they really stick in your mind. I’ve bought it as gifts for 2 friends.”
Recorded at Dr. Caw Recording, Northbrook, IL.
Produced by Judith Svalander and Jamie O’Reilly
Distributed by J. O’Reilly Productions.