Holiday album from Maki Mae is eloquent, spellbinding
(Published: November 17, 2020)

Maki Mae is a star in the making.

With her transcendent, powerful soprano vocals, and eloquent piano playing, Mae's impeccable talents raise her new holiday album, Seasonal Songbook, to extraordinary heights. This is no mere Yuletide collection; it's a preview of the future, an artist that will soon conquer the globe.

This is no exaggeration.

Mae is incredibly gifted, able to breathe new life into aging standards, making them fresh and vital again. Mae's version of "My Favorite Things" is angelic, and truly there are no better words to describe. Her singing is stunning in its loveliness, spellbinding in its technical precision and emotional presentation. It is utterly beautiful. The Doors' Robby Krieger is an expected guest on this song, and his presence adds gravitas to an already gorgeous piece of music. Krieger's mysterious, cinematic guitars are flavored by bluesy riffs that add atmospheric mood and texture; what an impressive combination of artistry.

Leonard Cohen's "Hallelujah" is given a holiday feel, transforming the original work instead of just covering it. Mae's voice is hauntingly beautiful but disciplined, too; her focus is on capturing the feel of the tune instead of merely showcasing her skills, which she does so anyway. But the highlight just might be "O Holy Night," which sounds like an ethereal chorus of angels.

Seasonal Songbook is a masterpiece.

More Information: https://www.makimae.com