Wanting to spread a little holiday cheer early this year, The Portland Playlist invited The Whiskey Darlings into the studio to debut their new album, “Christmas Songs.” This is the second album from the band comprised of Michele Van Kleef and Rob Rainwater, successful artists with their own solo projects who bonded over a shared love of music from before their time.
The Whiskey Darlings, photo by Teri Briggs
The first part of the show included their holiday music influences which covered classics like Burl Ives’ “Rudolf the Red Nosed Reindeer,” Johnny Mathis’ “Winter Wonderland,” The Beach Boys’ “Little St. Nick,” and Mel Torme’s “The Christmas Song.”
The Whiskey Darlings, photo by Teri Briggs
Moving on to the new album, it is 9 tracks in all and includes many of the standards you would be familiar with but with a Whiskey Darlings twist. It is available for purchase online as well as at their upcoming holiday tour which starts Saturday, 11/26, at McMenamin’s Hotel Oregon in the Cellar Bar, 7-10 p.m. If you are looking for an all-ages holiday show, they will be performing with a full band at McMenamin’s Old Church & Pub on 12/19 & 20, 7-10 p.m.
The Whiskey Darlings, photo by Teri Briggs
Rob and Michele performed three songs live from the album Christmas Time, Peace on Earth, including a fun take on Rudolf the Red-Nosed Reindeer which cleverly channels Stevie Nicks and Rhianna. “Christmas Time” was written from Rob’s childhood memories of driving to Eastern Oregon to Grandma’s house for the holidays. “Peace on Earth” was written with the current state of the world in mind, “… we’ve all gotta learn to show a little more love, why don’t we show a little more love”, “If I want to see peace on earth tonight, then I gotta be that peace on earth tonight.” You can watch video of their live in-studio performance here, and here.
The Whiskey Darlings, photo by Teri Briggs
Bringing The Whiskey Darlings into the studio was exactly what was needed to build excitement for the upcoming holidays. They provided endless laughs and beautiful music to lighten up these dark days of the winter to come. We hope you will enjoy it as much as we did!
The Whiskey Darlings, photo by Teri Briggs
The Whiskey Darlings, photo by Teri Briggs
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Great job everyone!! Happy Holidays to one and all!