If you think you’ve heard every yuletide story in existance then you are probably ready for Snaildartha: Jerry The Christmas Snail. Matt Fugate and Chris Strouth created this oddball tale. As Chris writes, “It started as a silly little idea: Make the Life of Buddha into a Christmas story oh yeah and make it a snail. ”

Yes, it’s strange. It is also funny, clever, and has more than a little wisdom. Chris directed and produced while Matt narrates the story in a perfected combination of droll wit and sharp timing over the musical score. And what a score! Organist Scott ”Pink Slippers” LeGere, Drummer Terry “Poker Face” Haanen, and saxophonist George Cartwright laids a hip jazzy groove that is supportive when needed and is independently listenable during the several musical interludes. The great musical backing stays complementary to the imaginative telling.

Some may find the pairing of Buddha and Christmas to be uncomfortable. I say, listen to the story! It’s amazing how well the two traditions merge in this retelling. And I can truthfully say you may never look at Santa Claus in the same way again.

The album is available as a full album zip in 128kbps MP3.

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