I think everyone in the Crescent City wants the same thing for Christmas. I’ll defer all of my gifts till next year if good Ole’ San Nicholas can deliver that one thing that’s on all our minds. I’m not going to let the cat out the bag and jinx it for the Black and Gold, but those of you like myself who’ve been wrapped up in the magic this year can fill in the blanks.

It’s been almost 5 years since Katrina came and went, and I’m finally getting back to feeling festive and excited about December 24th and beyond. Typically I fill up the iPod with a standard selection of holiday tunes ranging from Bing to Frank and back to one of our own in Harrry Connick Jr.

This year we’ll be spinning a heavy dose of Kermit Ruffins “Have A Crazy Cool Christmas”. First and foremost I must admit that I had planned a huge Basin St. Records post this month, but of course time slipped away. Honestly, I’m thrilled that it did, because it gave me an opportunity to focus on this one record, and focus I did.

From track to track the album is not only recorded masterfully, but flows like eggnog. The record starts off with a terrifically swingin’ version of “Silent Night”, and works it’s way into snowy classics like “Santa Claus is Coming to Town” and “O Christmas Tree”.

Then the No.5 track “Baby it’s Cold Outside” eases itself in and around my ears. Up until hearing the Kermit / Michaela Harrison version, the Zooey Deschanel / Leon Redbone was the one that really knocked my candy canes.

From there it gets even better with “A Saints Christmas”. This one track sends me over the north pole. It’s perfectly NOLA. Finally, before leading into the ending track “Jingle Bells”, Kermit sparkles and shines in ” Crazy Cool Christmas” ripping it up with his signature lazy fine trumpet playing alongside a rolling groove.

After listening to the entire record back and forth several times, what truly comes to mind is how important Kermit is to New Orleans and it’s musical roots. The record succeeds because of his honest interpretation of the music and his authentic New Orleans rendition. If folks around the world heard this record, they would instantly know where it came from.

You can buy your own copy of Kermit’s “Have a Crazy Cool Christmas” directly from the Basin Street Records website, iTunes or purchase it locally at The Louisiana Music factory

To learn more about Kermit and his music visit his Myspace page.