Reviewed by Lins Honeyman

I reviewed the dual disc version of this release at the end of last year and commented on how the DVD part of the package was something of a disappointment mainly due to the fact that the videos of each song were merely images of snow, landscapes and stars with no involvement from the singers themselves. Integrity have chosen to adapt the concept and use these video presentations as an interactive worship tool. Billed as a Resource System DVD, it all fits into place perfectly and contains eight of the songs featured on the original album by artists ranging from Michael W Smith and Hillsong to the likes of Candi Pearson Shelton and MercyMe. As you would expect from these artists, the music itself is of the highest quality and gives this release a firm foundation upon which to stand - but how does it all work? Well, as detailed in the very useful tutorial feature, the DVD can be used in three specific ways: in your own private worship times, in small groups or as part of a congregational worship event and provides a visual and audio Christmas worship experience with optional lyric subtitles. Furthermore, the disc allows you to adapt your event to the level of musicianship in your church by giving you three options. Firstly, you can opt for the full stereo effect which contains full vocals and instrumentation. Secondly, there is a split track option which leaves in the instrumentation and backing vocals but allows the congregation or group to take the lead vocal. The last option provides a click track to be channelled to the drummer to enable a live group to play the songs whilst keeping in time with the visual accompaniment. Although you can choose which songs you would want to have at your event, the kind folks at Integrity have also provided some pre-programmed three song worship sets with tracks that sit well together. This is an extremely versatile and user friendly Christmas resource and I defy any worship group not to be able to use it in some shape or form in the future.

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.