Jane Monheit, Silver Bells Review

by Rudy Palma

Jane Monheit’s rendition of “Silver Bells” brings a refreshing Latin jazz flair to this holiday classic. Monheit’s approach here is quintessentially her own—effortlessly blending technical ability with emotive appeal, which is at the heart of her reputation as one of the great modern interpreters of the jazz and American songbook tradition.

Monheit first presents the melody comfortably in the Latin cha-cha rhythm laid down by her rhythm section, which includes Rick Montalbano on drums, Karl McComas Reichl on bass, and the combined percussive talents of Kevin Winard and Tiki Pasillas. The arrangement’s immediate appeal gives Monheit ample space to showcase her phrasing. Her tone is warm and velvety, and her accents marry well with the syncopation in the Latin-based arrangement. It’s clear that Monheit has a deep affinity for Latin jazz, and she navigates the nuances of the flow with ease, leaning into the pulse of each beat with just the right amount of sway.

The highlight of Monheit’s performance is her phrasing. Throughout the performance, she brings subtle variations, playing with the melody to enhance its shape and give it a developing shape. She knows when to take liberties, nodding to the legacy of jazz vocal improvisation without overshadowing the charm of the original melody.

Monheit’s dynamics are also key to her delivery—she moves effortlessly between delicate moments and full-bodied phrases that open up into the upper register of her tessiture. These shifts lend a sense of spontaneity to the track, enhancing the festive feeling while grounding it in the sophistication jazz fans have come to expect from her. Monheit’s diction also allows her voice to soar confidently in the Latin joyous energy, a celebration that’s as much about vocal skill as it is about Holiday spirit.

Max Haymer on piano offers tasteful rhythmic comping and fills, providing the harmonic glue that keeps the track buoyant. His interplay with Monheit underscores her phrasing beautifully, creating a back-and-forth that highlights her command over jazz timing and expression. Montalbano’s drums keep a steady and dynamic cha-cha groove, while McComas Reichl’s bass lines are grounding, giving the rhythm section a solid foundation. Winard and Pasillas contribute richly layered percussion, adding depth and texture to the Latin arrangement. Together, their interplay with Monheit underscores her phrasing beautifully, creating a back-and-forth highlighting her command over vocal accents, timing, and expression.

With “Silver Bells,” Jane Monheit has delivered a festive performance that resounds with her tonal quality, thoughtful phrasing, and expressive accents. This version of “Silver Bells” shines brightly. For listeners who appreciate vocal agility mixed with heartfelt delivery, this track will surely be a welcomed addition to their holiday rotation.