Kool For the Holidays arrives in-stores Nov. 5, marking Kool & the Gang’s first album in seven years. The set also doubles as a prelude to the 2014 celebration of the legendary band’s 50th anniversary. This is also their first holiday record, featuring songs that were half a century in the making. As the title implies, Kool For the Holidays isn’t your run of the mill holiday album. Comprised of six original songs and eight standards, the project embraces what Kool heads have always loved about Kool & the Gang: its harmonious fusions of R&B, pop, dance and funk, engaging vocals and artful arrangements. In addition to revisiting its early jazz roots, the band also adds some gospel flavor to the mix. Bottom line, Kool & the Gang refreshingly crafts its own unique definition of holiday spirit.