As we round the corner toward Christmas here’s a few of my favorite Christmas CDs from Christian artists that made their way across my desk this season.
“Christmas: A Newsboys Holiday” Michael Tait’s range comes out on this CD. His smooth, velvety vocals are reminiscent of Nat King Cole on “The Christmas Song” — one of the all-time great holiday songs. Before joining the newsboys, Tait had this song as a hidden track on his “Lose This Life” CD. Tait’s vocals on this CD might be a surprise to many rock fans, but he translates perfectly to Christmas music.
Don’t like listening to one artist when it comes to Christmas tunes? Then check out these two offerings– “The Essential Christmas Collection” and “Bethlehem Skyline 2.”
Essential is a compilation of artists from the Provident Label Group (a division of Sony) and features some of the best-known Christian artists. From Third Day and Mac Powell getting the CD going with “Angels We Have Heard On High” to Brandon Heath’s “The Night Before Christmas,” Revive’s “The First Noel” to Michael W. Smith’s emotional “All is Well.” There’s a Celtic feel to Casting Crown’s version of “Joy to the World.” Newcomer Kerrie Roberts’ vocal range is displayed on “Oh Holy Night,” and Building 429’s gritty version “What Child is This?” is fun. As the name implies this is an essential addition to your Christmas collection.
Bethlehem features new music from Centricity’s stable of artists — Jason Gray, Downhere, Lanae’ Hale, Sixteen Cities and others. The new songs are a pleasant reprieve from all the oldies. BUT don’t fret, classics such as “Silent Night,” “Away in the Manger,” and “Little Drummer Boy” are in the mix. I really like Downhere’s offerings. For some reason I’m reminded of Queen whenever I hear this band. The new music is reason enough to pick up this CD.
Patrice Wilson’s “A Christmas Blessing” and The Isaacs “Christmas” round out my selections. These were two new artists for me. I enjoy Wilson’s classic renditions of Christmas staples such as “Winter Wonderland,” “Jingle Bells” and “O Come all Ye Faithful.” When listening to this CD, I just wanted to curl up next to a fire with a hot cup of cocoa.
If your looking for some bluegrass tints to your Christmas tunes, then The Isaacs is your way to go. Complete with mandolin, fiddle and banjo the group offers up “I’ll Be Home for Christmas,” “Silver Bells,” and “God Rest Ye Merry Gentleman.” New songs include “It’s Christmas Time Again”, “Santa Claus is Real” and “The Savior of the World Has Come.”
Enjoy.