Reviewed by Ian Hayter

Debbie Fortnum is Canadian and has been playing the piano since the age of five. She has joined such luminaries as Brian Doerksen and David Ruis in leading worship and currently ministers with her husband, Scott, as well as touring widely in Canada and the USA. This is her third album (after debut 'Oasis Of Thirst' in 1999 and 'To Love And Be Loved' in 2005) and is a selection of well known Christmas carols and songs, which showcase her undoubted talent. The 16 tracks cover pretty well everyone's favourites, from "I Saw Three Ships" to "Jesu Joy Of Man's Desiring", with a bonus 17th track entitled "The Music Of Emmanuel", which allows her to give rein to her own songwriting talents and singing voice. Debbie is joined by award-winning producer Chris Janz, who also arranged all the orchestral backing. It's a very easy listen and ideal background music for your Christmas cocktails, but also repays more careful attention for the pianist's skilful artistry.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

Interested in reviewing music? Find out more here.