Reviewed by Tony Cummings

It was highly predictable that this, Matt's first Christmas album, should soar to number one in the UK's Official Christian & Gospel Chart but considering how many Christian artists have creatively sleepwalked through Christmas album recording sessions down the years, far less predictable that it would be any good. In fact, 'These Christmas Lights' is excellent. For a start, he and American producer Bernie Herms have avoided the clichés of the genre, no lush production schmaltz, no over reliance on traditional carols (and even when fragments of "O Little Town Of Bethlehem" and "O Come All Ye Faithful" are used they are segued with original songs), no wallows in family Christmas sentimentality and definitely no hint of Santa. The album is a project which succeeds in not only reflecting on that history-changing day in Bethlehem but does so with worshipful reverence. Take for instance the opening title track ("We hold a flame in our hearts now/Say a prayer that in this world/All these lights, these Christmas lights/Will shine for you, and you alone"). The duet with Chris Tomlin, "Angels (Singing Gloria)" is equally strong which after reminding us of what that celestial choir were singing in the sky over that humble stable reflects on its significance ("In the name of love/God is with us now/Mercy coming close/Majesty touched down"). The other special guest tracks are equally strong. You wouldn't have convinced me that gospel powerhouse Tasha Cobbs would make an appropriate singing partner to white boy Redman's gentle voice but her soulful tones give liftoff to "To You In The Highest (O Come Let Us Adore)" while the best track of all, the hauntingly effective "Help From Heaven", shows just how sorely Natasha Bedingfield has been missed from the worship arena since she last recorded with Hillsong London. Matt's composing collaborations with Jonas Myrin, Nick Herbert, Sam Bailey and Jason Upton have all produced very strong songs and creatively delivered here make for a Christmas music gem.

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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