With “Celebrate the King,” Larry Karpenko steps boldly into the holiday music landscape, delivering a project that feels both timeless and refreshingly inventive. Recorded at Kreation Records Studio in Loma Linda, California, the release pulses with the warmth of family, the depth of faith, and the creative spark of a seasoned songwriter eager to push into new territory. It’s a holiday collection that doesn’t just revisit Christmas classics—it reimagines them with heart, musical precision, and a spirit of celebration.
At the center of the project is the vibrant title track, “Celebrate the King,” a spirited blend of gospel joy, parade-like rhythms, and pop energy. Inspired in part by Lionel Richie’s “All Night Long” and the upbeat showmanship of holiday parades, the song is built to ignite movement. It’s an exuberant declaration that sets the tone for the entire release: full of life, rooted in worship, and meant to bring people together. Karpenko’s message is clear—Christmas is a celebration, and this track invites listeners to sing, clap, and “let’s go!” right alongside him.
Karpenko’s musical palette is remarkably diverse, weaving together jazz, gospel, acoustic worship, 70s textures, cinematic intensity, and even Beatles-inspired whimsy. Each track feels like a fully formed world. “Lullaby for a King”offers a gentle moment of reflection, painting the nativity with tender reverence. Meanwhile, “Jesus, You’re Christmas”leans into smooth jazz, echoing the subtle elegance of Diana Krall. It’s warm, sincere, and grounding—a reminder of the holiday’s spiritual center.
The album’s collaborators bring essential texture and personality. Ben Phipatanakul sparks the jazzy groove of “What Child Is This,” while longtime friend Shawn Scott anchors “Christmas Time Is Here” with a smooth, soulful bassline. Karpenko’s children also play meaningful roles: his daughter Lauryn’s relaxed, heartfelt vocals on “Adore” help turn the track into a quiet worship moment, while his son Andrew inspired one of the album’s standout jazz arrangements. Earnest Kim’s bright improvisation on “Hark! The Herald” injects joyous spontaneity, capturing Karpenko’s love for big-band swing.
These influences—Steven Curtis Chapman, Chris Tomlin, Diana Krall, Jon Bellion, and more—shape the sound without overshadowing Karpenko’s distinct artistic fingerprint. The project reflects his belief that music is both sacred and playful, both a place of worship and a space for creative exploration. His Beatles-styled interpretation of “Carol of the Bells,” complete with whimsical sound effects, shows just how far he is willing to push beyond standard holiday arrangements.
The creation process was infused with purpose. Karpenko describes the sessions as “both creative and sacred,” with moments of prayer grounding the work in intention. This spiritual focus gives the album its emotional resonance—each track feels like an offering. The release also marks a significant moment in Karpenko’s creative journey, as he moves into a season of prolific writing with plans for monthly releases and prepares for the 2026 premiere of his original brass-and-cello composition “Call to The Helper.”
Ultimately, “Celebrate the King” stands out because it bridges tradition and innovation so seamlessly. It honors beloved classics with musical craftsmanship while introducing new songs destined to become holiday favorites. More than a seasonal album, it’s a joyful, reverent soundtrack built to bring families, worshippers, and generations together. Karpenko doesn’t just celebrate Christmas—he invites listeners to experience its wonder anew.
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