New Music: "Saint Nick" by Nick Bhalla

Saint Nick is a new holiday release from jazz pianist Nick Bhalla.  Hailing from Minneapolis, Nick describes his music (on his Bandcamp site) as "sad jazz".  While his arrangements are more solemn and serene than, say, rousing New Orleans style jazz, his song selections for Saint Nick are perfect fits for his reserved piano lounge style.

"Saint Nick" album cover art

A particular favorite of mine from the album is "My Favorite Things".  Nick begins this piece with the classic song from "The Sound of Music" that has made its way into the Christmas music canon*, and skillfully segues into the beautiful "Edelweiss".  It's a lovely performance.

Saint Nick is eight contemporary Christmas carols, including the fine selections "The Christmas Waltz", "Christmastime is Here" and "Toyland" alongside standards "White Christmas" and "The Christmas Song".  Nick's interpretations and performances are excellent, making for a very enjoyable addition to 2024's new Christmas releases.

Please enjoy Nick Bhalla performing "Christmastime is Here"

Four songs from Saint Nick are available on all streaming platforms, but the entire Saint Nick album is available exclusively on Bandcamp.  If you enjoy what you hear, please consider purchasing the album and supporting an independent musician with a few of your holiday dollars.  Der Bingle thanks you for supporting independent music.

Saint Nick on Bandcamp

Nick Bhalla Bandcamp

Nick Bhalla

* It's taken me a while to come around, but yes, I now consider "My Favorite Things" to be a Christmas song.  If Tony Bennett sings it for Christmas, then it is.