All Aboard the Holiday Express

It was all smiles, good will and cheer, as a sold out crowd of about 1,500 gathered at the Thursday night to enjoy, and at times participate in, the annual Holiday Express concert.

Tim McLoone, restaurateur, philanthropist, and founder of Holiday Express, led a crowded stage with more than 30 professional musicians and singers in an evening of classic holiday tunes spanning multiple genres of music, from pop, rock n’ roll, and gospel.

For the past 18 years, Holiday Express has been making the season a bit brighter for those who need it most as its troupe of more than 1,300 volunteers delivers music, food, gifts, financial support and friendship to adults and children who are physically and mentally disabled, living with AIDS, or homelessness, as well as the elderly and others in need.

This year, Holiday Express will have performed 55 shows in just over a month when it takes the stage one last time this season on Christmas Eve. While the annual performance at the Basie is the group’s showcase and primary benefit concert, Holiday Express also provides many intimate performances at shelters and senior centers, among other venues.

Prior to Thursday’s performance, McLoone said the band brings more than music to its performances, but a sense of help and hope to those who are often overlooked at this time of the year.

“(We’re) brining the gift of human kindness to those who need it most,” he said.

For more information about Holiday Express, to help, or to purchase the outfit’s holiday performance CD, visit www.holidayexpress.com. The CD can also be purchased locally in Red Bank at where it's currently featured in the top sellers section.