Joy Lapps & Larnell Lewis – The Caribbean Christmas Mixtape vol.1 (KGR, 2024)
The Caribbean Christmas Mixtape Vol. 1 is a fresh and highly enjoyable holiday offering from acclaimed steelpan artist Joy Lapps and Grammy-winning drummer Larnell Lewis. This album brilliantly reimagines Christmas classics with the irresistible rhythms of the Caribbean. From jazz-infused soca, ska, and roots reggae to soothing lullabies and remarkable jazz fusion, the project celebrates Afro-Caribbean heritage and offers a refreshing alternative to traditional holiday music.
Throughout the album, you’ll find stellar steelpan performances along with dazzling electric bass and synth solos along with remarkable interplay; such as delightful organ, piano and steelpan interaction.
This marks Lapps’ sixth and Lewis’ fourth release as leaders, shaped by their experiences as first-generation Afro-Caribbean Canadians. Lapps’ grew up listening to soca and calypso through her DJ father. Meanwhile, Lewis was exposed to zouk, reggae, and gospel in his church community.
The album’s lead single, “Soca Sleigh Ride,” highlights the joyful energy of Trinidadian-inspired soca with a modern pop sensibility.
Other notable tracks include a playful, Caribbean-infused rendition of “Santa Claus Is Coming to Town” and Petite Papa Noël, mixing zouk influences with English and French vocals from Joy and her sister Subria Lapps.
The duo’s thoughtful arrangements shine throughout. A zouk-inspired take on “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” evokes the gentle rhythm of soft sand underfoot, while “O Little Town of Bethlehem” features a delicate steelpan solo layered over a subtle dancehall beat. meanwhile, the reggae reimagination of the beautiful “Carol of the Bells” pays homage to Peter Tosh and Bob Marley.”
Closing the album, “Silent Night” delivers a tender, exquisite trio performance by Lapps, Lewis, and pianist Courtenay Frazer.
This project evolved through live performances, including Toronto’s JAZZ.FM91 annual concert series, where audiences embraced the couple’s lively, genre-blending arrangements. The album is more than a showcase of their technical skill; it’s a celebration of family, faith, and the unique cultural identity of the Afro-Caribbean diaspora.
“We wanted to share what Christmas sounded like growing up—when our families would gather, play instruments, and sing together,” explains Lewis. For Lapps, the project also underscores the communal role of music. “Music is central to how we gather, strengthen bonds, and nourish the soul.”
Joy Lapps, known for her expertise in steelpan composition and community engagement, integrates her academic background with her artistic practice. With accolades like the Toronto Arts Foundation Muriel Sherrin Award and the Pan Arts Network Women in Pan Award, she’s a leading advocate for amplifying women’s contributions to the steelpan movement. Lapps’ extensive career includes performances across Canada, the U.S., and Europe, alongside notable collaborators like Gramps Morgan and Stewart Goodyear.
Following The Caribbean Christmas Mixtape Vol. 1, Lapps plans to launch a research-driven project spotlighting women in the steelpan community. Her work bridges art, scholarship, and activism, ensuring the steelpan’s legacy continues to inspire future generations.
Musicians: Joy Lapps on tenor steelpan, vocals; Larnell Lewis on drums, percussion, bass, keyboards, and programming; Michael ‘Skel” Redhead on tenor sax; Jan Morgan on trumpet; Jeremy ledbetter on piano; Courtenay Frazer on organ, Fender Rhodes, synthesizer, auxiliary keyboards; Elmer Ferrer on guitar; Rich Brown on bass; Roshane Wright on congas, percussion; Subria Lapps on vocals; Justin Bacchus on vocals; Rob Christian on flute and saxophone; and Sam Williams on organ.
Buy The Caribbean Christmas Mixtape Vol. 1.
Author: Angel Romero
Angel Romero y Ruiz has dedicated his life to musical exploration. His efforts included the creation of two online portals, worldmusiccentral.org and musicasdelmundo.com. In addition, Angel is the co-founder of the Transglobal World Music Chart, a panel of world music DJs and writers that celebrates global sounds. Furthermore, he delved into the record business, producing world music studio albums and compilations. His works have appeared on Alula Records, Ellipsis Arts, Indígena Records and Music of the World.