Christmas Funk

Released in 2018, Christmas Funk represents Aloe Blacc's contribution to the holiday canon, specifically targeting the intersection of classic soul and festive cheer. Eschewing the traditional orchestral pop approach, the album is built on a foundation of 1970s-inspired funk and R&B. It features eight original compositions alongside two notable covers: a soulful rendition of Wham!'s 'Last Christmas' and a funky take on Mariah Carey's 'All I Want for Christmas Is You'. The recording is characterized by its use of live horns, syncopated basslines, and Blacc's versatile baritone. Positioned in his catalog as a thematic project, it maintains the high production standards of his studio albums like 'Lift Your Spirit' while leaning harder into the funk influences of his early career. Critical reception noted the album's ability to provide a 'cool' alternative to standard holiday music, praising its rhythmic integrity and Blacc's charismatic delivery.