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‘Dukes of Hazzard’ drive into the holidays with Christmas album

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“Duke the halls with boughs of holly. Fa la la la la, la la la VROOOM!”

John Schneider and Tom Wopat, the original “Dukes of Hazard,” are celebrating the 35th anniversary of their octane-driven show. But this time, they’re behind a microphone instead of behind the wheel.

Schneider and Wopat have teamed up for a new holiday album, “Home for Christmas.” Fans will be able get it in stores and online on Oct. 28, two days before Halloween.

The pair and their custom-made Dodge Charger stock car known as the General Lee are currently appearing in commercials for AutoTrader.com.

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“The Dukes of Hazzard” premiered in 1979 on CBS and aired for seven seasons. The series was set in the fictional Hazzard County in the rural South and revolved around the “Duke boys,” whose fast-driving ways put them at the center of numerous adventures and run-ins with the law.

Schneider and Wopat have performed in concert over the years, but have never joined together for a full album. “Home for Christmas” will feature their spin on recognizable Christmas standards and lesser-known holiday songs, backed by a “bright and brassy big band, lush strings and rustic country songs,” according to a press release announcing the album.

The tracks will also showcase their humorous bantering style formed over their three decades of friendship.

“I think this is a fresh take on the Christmas album,” Wopat said in the press release. “Jazz fans and serious musicians will appreciate what we’ve done with these tunes. Our arranger John Oddo has a true affinity for that classic ‘50s and ‘60s sounds.”

He added, “I love singing with John Schneider. The timbre of our voices match, the harmonies blend so easily. Plus, he’s a barrel of laughs.”

Schneider said, “Tom and I really bring out the best in each other.”

The songs included on the D13 Entertainment release include “I’ll Be Home for Christmas,” “Christmas Time Is Here,” “Silver Bells,” “Santa Claus Is Coming to Town” and “Cool Yule,” written by the late Steve Allen.

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“It’s a particular favorite of mine,” said Schneider. “It has that great Rat Pack vibe that I never get to go.”

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