Phil Vassar Preps Holiday Album For 11/22 Release

Phil Vassar is realizing a dream-come-true with the release of his new holiday cd simply titled Noel. The 10-cut collection on RodeoWave Entertainment includes five original songs and five holiday classics and will be available at all digital retailers, at www.PhilVassar.com and at his concerts beginning November 22.

"I've always dreamed of making a Christmas record," said Phil. "From the time I was a boy-listening to Nat King Cole, Andy Williams, Bing Crosby and all the classic singers- I've wanted to do this."

The Jazzy "Doesn't Feel Like Christmas Without You," which Phil wrote with his co-producer of Noel, Dane Bryant, kicks off the album. Texas Swing master Ray Benson guests on "Big Ole Texas Christmas," and the slightly irreverent "Santa's Gone Hollywood" describes Jolly Ol' St. Nick after he hits the lottery and moves to LA. The rockin' "I Saved Christmas," which Phil wrote solo, is heavy on piano and Hammond B3, and the sultry "Let's Make A Little Christmas Tonight" needs no introduction.

Standards on Noel include his version of "What Child Is This," "Oh Come All Ye Faithful/Angels We Have Heard On High" and "I'll Be Home For Christmas." Also included is his version of "Merry Christmas Darling," and he turns "Away In A Manger" into a powerful duet with guest singer/songwriter Kellys Collins. His rendition of "What Child Is This" is being offered as a free download in the new issue of People Country, which hits newsstands on November 11, 2011.

"I love the way Christmas makes you feel," he added "How it makes you slow down and re-evaluate your life. It makes you think about years past and look ahead."