You gotta blaze a yule log to this one! "World of Love(1)" is the debut solo release from Mr. Griptite, lead guitarist and sometimes vocalist for Daptone in-house beat-pounders the Dap-Kings. Sounds strange to say, but Binky might have a new holiday classic on his hands with this one. I can't remember the last time I heard an original Christmas tune this sick! "World of Love" is a lovely, hazy slow-burner, perfect for a snowy evening by the fire with your significant other. On the flipside, a cover of Laura Nyro's "Stone Soul Christmas(2)" picks up the tempo a little (but just a little) with jingle bells and beautiful background melodies from The Dansettes accenting Binky's voice, which sounds tailor-made for this type of joint. Daptone always comes with quality, but they're on fire lately. Recommended.

reviewed by Chris Lemon-Red