There were many highlights of last year’s holiday festivities in the Flatiron District, but one stands out in particular: the stirring performance of Matt Wilson’s Christmas Tree-O. Organized by the Flatiron 23rd Street Partnership as part of their 23 Days of Flatiron Cheer event series, the jazz ensemble will return to Flatiron Plaza North on Wednesday, December 18th to regale one and all with festive jazz renditions of classic Christmas carols and, perhaps, a Hanukkah song or two.

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Matt Wilson is both the drummer and bandleader, which may seem counter-intuitive to audience members accustomed to the standard rock-and-roll format, in which the drummer often plays a secondary role. However, watching the jazz band perform, it is immediately apparent why Wilson is at the forefront. A world class percussionist who travels across the globe with the Matt Wilson Quartet, Matt Wilson has performed with such legendary musicians as Herbie Hancock, Dewey Redman, Andrew Hill, Bobby Hutcherson, Elvis Costello, Cedar Walton, Kenny Barron, John Zorn, Marshall Allen, Wynton Marsalis, Michael Brecker, Pat Metheny, Bill Frisell and Hank Jones. If the prospect of a free concert featuring a renowned drummer and his seasoned band is not enough of an incentive to drop by, Blue Smoke will be handing out free apple cider to warm the tummies and hearts of attendees.

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Last but not least, feast your eager little eyes on our video of Matt Wilson’s Christmas Tree-O’s performance from last year.