Jim Brickman and Trans-Siberian Orchestra

This week's episode represents two opposite ends of the musical spectrum--the quieter, romantic sounds of pianist Jim Brickman and the prog-rock power of Trans-Siberian Orchestra. Both are associated with Christmas music and have recorded more than their fair share of it, and both were scheduled to be on tour this year during the holiday season.

I talk to Brickman about the series of live-streamed shows he will undertake via Zoom starting on November 29 that will in part benefit the venues he was scheduled to play while tour, all of which have faced severe financial hardship since they can't present shows. Fans will have multiple chances to see him this December, while Trans-Siberian Orchestra will play one live-streamed show on December 18. How the TSO spectacle will translate to the television or computer is an open question.

Brickman talks about the close relationship between his seasonal music and the music he makes the rest of the year--an affinity so close that it makes sense that he has recorded numerous Christmas albums.

I talked to Al Pitrelli, musical director for TSO in 2018. Today I talk to drummer Jeff Flake - a TSO lifer - about what a TSO member does during the fall when he or she doesn't have a tour. And what does he listen to for Christmas? 

This Thursday is Thanksgiving, and if you need some music to help you be thankful this year - an understandable condition - here's a Spotify playlist from listener Michael Maling to help you feel the day. Masked. At a distance. 

If you like this week’s show, subscribe or follow 12 Songs at Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Stitcher, Spotify, and now, Pandora.