Free Rogers

Elton is a central figure both in the development of the British jazz scene through the '70s and beyond, and in the rock scene at the time. Known to wider audiences through his connection to the Soft Machine, his sinuous, post-Coltrane lines on alto and the rare saxello appear in many progressive contexts in the period. His compositions were strong too, reflecting an interest in melody and lyricism, and this band is a showcase for the strength of his music. It also demonstrates Elton's abilities as an arranger - the unusual line up extracts gold from these already fine pieces in it's ensemble sonorities. Of course, the band is top-notch, featuring the finest UK saxists of the time, with a wonderful rhythm section. Tony Levin in particular is an undersung hero of the drums.

Country music icon Kenny Rogers offers up his first Christmas collection since 1998's Christmas from the Heart. His sixth holiday-themed album overall, Once Again It's Christmas features a number of guest performers including Alison Krauss, Sugarland singer Jennifer Nettles, vocal group Home Free, pianist Jim Brickman, and country-pop duo Winfield's Locket. The festive collection marks Rogers' return to recording holiday music, a genre he's been quite close to over the years both sentimentally and commercially.