Review by Abby Kenna
Charles Vaccaro’s take on the holiday classic, “Run Run Rudolph”, is fresh, modern, and full of energy. A new and improved arrangement revitalizes the song with bold spirit – still festive and true to the nostalgic tune we all know and love, but with new enthusiasm.
One aspect that differentiates Vaccaro’s cover is his emphasis on blues-inspired musical elements. Although the original song definitely nods to the blues, Vaccaro fully embraces the rock ’n’ roll spunk. A lightly distorted guitar tone adds a bit of fuzz to the overall arrangement, opting out of a clean sound and going for a grittier, gutsier feel. In place of a bridge, a wailing guitar solo further accentuates this rock ’n’ roll re-imagining. These bluesy scales and rhythmic melodies add an extra level of musicality to the song, taking it a step further than just a holiday jingle.
Vaccaro’s vocals also lend a hand to the rockin’ sound of this “Run Run Rudolph” cover. He has a bright and boisterous voice, echoing across the soundscape effortlessly. It’s the kind of voice you can’t help but stay and listen to, full of inviting energy. Vaccaro’s delivery is reminiscent of Bruce Springsteen’s, powerful yet approachable.
Additionally, Charles Vaccaro is especially intentional to construct his arrangement in such a way that it converses with the melody and lyrics, rather than combats it. There are clever glimmers of peppy piano riffs between phrases of the verse, slyly stashed between vocal sections so as not to muddy up the composition. Subtle details like this really elevate this version of “Run Run Rudolph”, taking it from a classic kids tune to an energetic rock song.
Vaccaro’s bluesy rendition of the classic tune, “Run Run Rudolph”, is a lively start to the holiday festivities. Full of rock ’n’ roll solos, bright instrumentals, and welcoming vocals, the Charles Vaccaro is kicking off the season with joy.
About Charles V. Rox Vaccaro
Charles V. Rox Vaccaro, is a singer songwriter and rock guitarist from Montreal. His passion for music started very young. In the mid 80’s he was one of the founding members of the rock band LIPSTIK, managed by noneother than Whitney Houston (Nippy Management Inc). Throughout his life and extensive music career,
Charles had experienced some really interesting events and has been writing and performing several songs for him but also for other talented musicians. After a short hiatus from the entertainment industry, he recently released several songs including top hit single Can’t Stop Running, and the successful autumn release Kissing. Charles has also received a nomination for the Singer/Songwriter category at the HMMA’s
Hollywood Music in Media Award in 2020.
To hear more great music by Charles V. Rox Vaccaro, please visit his Spotify
Comments