Reviewed by Tony Cummings

If like me you're something of a Motown nostalgist, this 16-track item will be a delight. The company is not of course what it once was but there are still a couple of stars from yesteryear on board and both the Temptations with a classy version of "Silent Night" and Smokey Robinson & The Miracles with a mellow and soulful original "It's Christmas Time" are well up to par. Elsewhere there are a bevy of modern gospel talents with Kierra Sheard, Micah Stampley, Tasha Cobbs, Brian Courtney Wilson and Smoky Norful all showing they have the chops to do something interesting with over-recorded carols. I didn't really care for the overblown "Christmas Overture" by the Aaron Lindsey Orchestra and VaShawn Mitchell doing a version of "Silent Night" as well as the Temps seems unnecessary. But then the album offers the underrated India.Arie (helped out by Gene Moore Jr) doing a great version of the modern classic "Mary Did You Know". Usually when record labels get their entire roster of artists to record Christmas songs the results are distinctly underwhelming. But here Motown Gospel have turned in a fine yuletide set.

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.

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