With friends like these: Taos-based musician Max Gomez continues holiday tradition with hometown shows

Max Gomez has spent the majority of the year on the road performing for some big shows with Tommy James.

When December rolls around, he’s back at home in New Mexico where he is joined by guests for his holiday shows.

This year Gomez will perform three shows – in Santa Fe, Taos and Los Alamos.

“The shows have become a tradition,” Gomez says. “It’s a good tradition. They seem to grow every year and I keep coming back. New Mexico is my home. I’m starting to sell out the big theaters in my hometown of Taos. It’s one of the most supportive places for me and my music.”

Gomez says his goal is to play a headlining show at the Lensic Performing Arts Center in Santa Fe.

“That’s next on the list,” he says. “My grandmother worked there and I would love to headline my holiday show there. It will be amazing.”

For the show, Gomez will be joined by friends on stage.

In previous holiday shows, Gomez has been joined by Joe Purdy, Robert Mirabal, Michael Hearne and Esther Rose.

“The lineups are a surprise,” he says. “These are gifts to the audience from me.”

The holiday shows will feature Gomez’s original music.

“I don’t think we’ll be singing Christmas carols,” he says. “They will be original songs of mine that lean into the season. There will also be a few snowflakes falling on a couple of songs.”

Gomez’s writing process has evolved over time and his love for performance has grown as well.

“I enjoy all of it more than ever,” he says. “The music business is difficult and I have a small team behind me making it work. On the day of a show, there’s so much work behind the scenes taking place that when I get on stage, it’s a relief because it’s what I enjoy doing. The performance feels like it’s the easiest part of my job.”

Gomez is also in the midst of working on a new album.

He’s found inspiration from opening for James on tour.

“Tommy James and the Shondells have so many songs,” he says. “This is the type of career I would love to have. He’s so friendly and well-spoken. I’ve enjoyed getting to know him while on tour.”

Gomez has been working on the new album for a better part of the year.

Production began in March and recording took five days.

“Now I’m working on all the fine detailing of the album,” he says. “I’m planning the release for next year and making videos and promo stuff.”