Reviewed by Brendan O'Regan

It's a brave move to release a Christmas album with none of the familiar seasonal songs, but that's what Elevation Records did in releasing last year this on behalf of the renowned Samaritan's Purse charity. Produced by Paul Burton and with some top line songwriters including Sue Rinaldi, Paul Field, Cathy Burton and Chris Eaton, the results are pleasant and entertaining. Vocals are spread across a large roster of singers, along with the Chidham Parochial Primary School Choir - the adults handling most of the leads with the children adding backing vocals. The songs will certainly sensitise children to the true spirit of Christmas, and it's not just a matter of holy platitudes. "Katy's Christmas" recognises that Christmas isn't a happy time for every child - "She's so sad and lonely/She feels her heart won't mend/All she really needs to have for Christmas is a friend." The title track is a fine song and slows down the pace with an attractive melody and admirable sentiments - "Mary snuggled her child/And treasured up every moment." In fact the song would fit well in a high profile stage musical. "The Christ In Christmas Time" challenges the culture surrounding the season - "It's such a crazy season, such a busy time/It's easy to forget how it began." The vocals are particularly good on this one. Suitably the theme of gift giving pervades the album, right from that title track, and especially on the pop styled "Wonderful Gift Of God".

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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