Reviewed by Brendan O'Regan

This album passes my test for Christmas albums - familiar material that's well performed and imaginative new songs for the season. The opening "Worshipful Christmas" prelude, a soft piano instrumental gets us into a mellow mood. "Our Humble King", a MacAlmon original, follows and reveals what a pleasing MOR-suited voice MacAlmon has. His "Saviour Of The World" features nice harmonies and a fine solo from guest singer Kimberly Rivera. "Little Baby Boy" is a touching little number, but again like the other originals it's a slow one, making one wish for something more upbeat and celebratory. Of the familiar Christmas songs the instrumental version of "Silent Night" is appealing, especially when the cello is introduced. Likewise "Oh Holy Night" is given an instrumental treatment with just a hint of choral work in the background. "O Come All Ye Faithful" is combined with MacAlmon's own "I Sing Praise". It's all very sincere, well performed and produced, but I longer for something more vibrant, something to make it stand out.

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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