Contemporary Christian Christmas recordings

A Cappella Singers : This Christmastide

Review: Following the inspiration of acappella arrangers Derric Johnson and Norman Luboff, Ronald Boender formed this 24 voice, mixed ensemble dedicated to performing the best of folk, sacred, Americana, and Christmas acappella. Since 1994, the Acappella Singers have built a solid repertoire of the finest acappella choral literature (in 8 parts) remaining steadfast to the foundation of the purest form of singing. Choosing Christmas songs arranged by aforementioned Derric Johnson, as well as Alfred Burt and Jay Rouse to name a few. Accentuated with sounds of a cathedral echo you can only love 'Carol Of The Bells', 'Joy To The World', 'Caroling, Caroling', 'Rejoice and Sing', and 'Let All Mortal Flesh Keep Silence'.

Songlist: Caroling, Caroling, Be Born In Me, He Just Had To Come Down, Let All Mortal Flesh Keep Silent, Carol Of The Bells, This Christmastide, Rejoice And Sing, Silent Night, I Believe This Is Jesus, Joy To The World, My Song In The Night, Winter Wonderland, Thee With Tender Care, Peace, Peace

Acappella Company : A Cappella Carols

Review: The jubilant voices of the Acappella Company are amazingly prolific, having recorded dozens of albums through the years. Their inspirational themes are blended in a contemporary-meets-gospel style. 'Carols' was released in 1993, and features the group performing all of the best-loved holiday gems: 'O Holy Night, The First Noel,' 'Joy To The World' and 'Silent Night,' plus six more. While the production and arrangements are certainly not plain, by comparison to their original compositions, they are restrained. 'Silent Night' retains the simplicity of this ubiquitous melody, but improvises upon it, adding warmth and depth with a resonant bass and perfectly-timed harmonic backing. You can't go wrong with this one!

Songlist: Angels We Have Heard On High, O Holy Night, Hark The Herald Angels Sing, Away In A Manger, The First Noel, O Come All Ye Faithful, What Child Is This?, Joy To The World, Little Town of Bethlehem, Silent Night

Acappella Company : Christmas

Review: Contemporary Christian group Acappella's Christmas CD features many original compositions with the sophisticated production for which the group is known, along with several traditionals, such as 'Go Tell It On The Mountain.' The consonant and stirring harmonies are intricately woven, and the group favors effects processing on some of the vocal tracks, giving them a modern edge. Even when singing about the birth of Christ thousands of years ago, the songs can be energetic and uptempo, such as 'Merry Christmas,' with it's swinging walking bass, and vocal slides. 'The Reason For The Season' meanders through a doo wop feel into a 6/8 meter, while 'That's What I Love About Christmas' is a whimsical jazz-influenced number, with vocal trumpet and trombone solos. The group adds occasional percussion or keyboard to ornament certain tracks, but Acappella's vocal arrangements, and the quality of the performances, are already as filled with bounty as Santa's sleigh!

Songlist: There Were Angels, A Tiny Child, Go, Tell it on the Mountain, Joseph's Song, That's What I Love About Christmas, No Other Day, Christmas Medley, Now You're Here, Merry Christmas, The Reason For The Season

Acappella Company : Family Christmas

Review: The Acappella Company, a male inspirational quartet, has the knack of writing clever arrangements without sacrificing emotional intensity, and their intelligent production lends a modern edge and sheen. Some cuts have percussion tracks, which arenUt employed as a live trap kit would be, but add groove and fullness. 'Family Christmas' includes twenty-one holiday carols and hymns, some of which were included previously on their two former Christmas CDUs (also in stock), and four from their childrenUs recording. Some of the older tracks have been refreshed and re-mixed with new vocals for this release, and 'Mary Did You Know,' 'O Holy Night' 'Away In A Manger' and 'Little Drummer Boy' are brand new.

Songlist: Mary, Did You Know?, Away In a Manger, A Tiny Child, The First Noel, Noel, Silent Night, Joy to the World, There Were Angels, O Come, O Come Emanuel, Christmas Medley, No Other Day, Here We Come A Carolling Medley, That's What I Love About Christmas, Hark the Herald Angels Sing, Angels We Have Heard On High, Jesus Carol, Merry Christmas, What Child Is This?, Is Born a Savior, O Holy Night, Little Drummer Boy

American Spiritual Ensemble : The Spirit of the Holidays

Review: There are 21 singers here, directed by founder Everett McCorvey's Kentucky-based American Spiritual Ensemble in the recording of this beautiful Christmas album, but the sound is so rich and full it seems like there must be more. Favorites among the 18 songs include standards like "Away In A Manger," "Little Drummer Boy," "Mary Had A Baby," "Christmas Medley" and "Ave Maria;" and less familiar tunes like "I Believe This Is Jesus," "Behold The Star," "Great Day," "Rockin' Jerusalem," the joyous "Here's A Pretty Little Baby," "The Virgin Mary Had A Baby Boy," "Siyahamba," "Prepare Me one Body" and "I Can Tell The World." There is some piano accompaniment. This album is a foot-tapping celebration from beginning to end, and to us that is what "The Spirit of the Holidays" is all about. Don't miss this one! 

Songlist: I Believe This is Jesus, Behold the Star, Away in a Manger, Little Drummer Boy, Mary had a Baby, Great Day, Ave Maria, I Can Tell the World, Christmas Medley, Rockin' Jerusalem, Here's a Pretty Little Baby, The Virgin Mary had a Baby Boy & Mary's Little Boy Child, Siyahamba, Prepare Me One Body, Sister Mary Had-a But One Child, Round the Glory Manger, Sweet Little Jesus Boy, Over the Rainbow

CenturyMen : Beautiful Star

Review: Established in 1969, the CenturyMen is an auditioned men's chorus of professional musicians who are directors of music in Baptist churches across the country. The group has extensively toured the US, and has performed in churches, concert halls and on nationwide telecasts. Concert tours in foreign countries include Brazil, Russia, China, Poland, the Czech Republic, Spain, Portugal, Greece, Switzerland, Israel and Turkey. "Beautiful Star" is a Christmas album, heavily accompanied by piano, Hammond and pip organ, electric piano, mandolin, guitar and percussion, that features 21 songs. Many of the songs are beautifully-arranged standards such as "O Holy Night," "Angels We Have Heard on High," "Wexford Carol," "O Come All Ye Faithful," "Rise Up Shepherd/Go Tell It on the Mountain," "Silent Night," "Joy to the World" the spirited round "This Little Babe" and "O Come, O Come, Emmanuel," are all wonderfully done by this veteran chorus. A few are new to us, the joyous "O Jerusalem in the Morning," the lovely, waltz-like "O Beautiful Star of Bethlehem," the dramatic "What You Gonna Name Your Pretty Little Baby" and the rhythmic "Ain't That a-Rockin'," and these are the hits of the album. The CenturyMen have a powerful, rich harmonic sound (which we would love to hear unaccompanied) that rivals that of the best Barbershop Harmony Society choruses, and "Beautiful Star" is a joy from beginning to end!

Songlist: O Holy Night, Angels We Have Heard On High, Mosaic Noel 1 "Fear not: for, behold...", Wexford Carol, Glory, Glory, Hallelujah, Mosaic Noel 2 "...I bring you good tidings of great joy..., O Jerusalem in the Morning, Beautiful Star of Bethlehem, Mosaic Noel 3 "...which shall be to all people..., What You Gonna Name Your Pretty Little Baby, This Little Babe, Mosaic Noel 4 "...For unto you is born this day..., Ain't That a-Rockin', O Come All Ye Faithful, Mosaic Noel 5 "in the city of David a Savior..., Rise Up, Shepherd/Go Tell It on the Mountain, Silent Night, Christmas Triptych, Mosaic Noel 6 "...which is Christ the Lord.", Joy to the World, O Come, O Come, Emmanuel: A Digital Reflection

Chapter 6 : Christmastime

Review: Chicago's excellent Contemporary Christian sextet Chapter 6, who we have enjoyed on the stage at the Harmony Sweeps Finals, have a poised, strong, jazz-flavored CD in "Christmas time." 12 songs, notably the light, scatty "Sleigh Ride," a Chanticleer-like arrangement of "O Come, O Come Emmanuel," a surprising scatty Manhattan Transferish arrangement of "Hark the Herald Angels Sing," a rap-flavored "This Christmas," a blue-note "Away in a Manger," a jazzy, driving "Carol of the Bells," surprising, hip vocal percussion arrangements of "O Little Town of Bethlehem," "Rise Up Shepherd and Follow," a moody "Gabriel's Message," a blue-note "The First Noel" and a stunningly jazzy "White Christmas." An unexpected, but impressive Christmas album for very talented Chapter 6.

Songlist: Sleigh Ride, Christmas Time is Here, O Come O Come Emmanuel, Hark! The Herald Angels Sing, This Christmas, Away in a Manger, Carol of the Bells, O Little Town of Bethlehem, Rise Up Shepherd and Follow, Gabriel's Message, The First Noel, White Christmas, Under the Boardwalk, Let Me Call You Sweetheart, Jingle-Bell Rock, I Believe, Star-Spangled Banner, O Canada!

Glad : An Acappella Christmas

Review: As one of the best-known and best-selling Contemporary Christian groups, the Glad quintet's tone is warm, full and open. With many arrangements by Bob Kauflin (which are collected in the accompanying 'Glad Christmas' songbook), and other gifted scribes such as Dave Maddux, the traditional holiday carol songlist is infused with added spirit. To a certain extent, as on 'Joy to The World,' the group re-writes the material, melodically and harmonically, so that it's tantamount to a new composition. Whether one approves of these liberties or not, one cannot argue the creativity, expertise and emotion that pervades everything they lay to tape.

Songlist: Glory to God, O Come, O Come, Emmauel, Hark, the Herald Angels Sing, Silent Night, Joy to the World, Rise Up Night, Shepherd, and Follow, For Unto Us, Starlight, O Come, All Ye Faithful, One Quiet Moment, In the First Light, Break Forth, O Beauteous Heav'nly Light

Glad : Voices Of Christmas

Review: Glad presents the long awaited Voices Of Christmas featuring: 'It Came Upon A Midnight Clear', 'Angels From The Realms Of Glory', 'The First Noel', 'Angels We Have Heard On High', 'O Little Town Of Bethlehem', 'All Praise To You', 'God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen', 'What Child Is This', and 'All The World Was Waiting'. Glad is regarded as one of the finest vocal ensembles in the a cappella community bringing new and exciting arrangements to songs of Christmas past. This 'humbug repellent' will bring joy to your home and create a harmonious atmosphere to all those who hear.

Songlist: It Came Upon A Midnight Clear, Go, Tell it on the Mountain, Angels From The Realms Of Glory, The First Noel, Angels We Have Heard On High, O Little Town Of Bethlehem, All Praise To You, God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen, What Child Is This?, All The World Was Waiting

Go Fish : Snow

Review: High energy Contemporary Christian all male trio Go Fish apply their tight Rockapella-like sound and cutting-edge arrangements to a Christmas collection, beginning with an accompanied, rewritten "Joy to the World," seguing into a surprising, upbeat "We Three Kings," with jazzy scat non-vocal percussion. An a cappella, traditional, richly harmonic "Away in a Manger/ Beautiful Savior" medley follows, a jazzy, heavily-accompanied original, "Christmas with a Capital C". A finger-snapping, mellow a cappella "White Christmas," a thought-provoking "It's About the Cross," plus the rhythmic, powerful "Little Drummer Boy." round out the album.

Songlist: Joy To The World, We Three Kings, Away In A Manger, Christmas Time, Christmas With A Capital C, White Christmas, Christmas And You, It's About A Cross, The Little Drummer, My Jesus I Love Thee

Haven Quartet : An Acappella Christmas

Review: The Haven Quartet's a cappella Christmas includes Bach's 'Jesu, Joy Of Man's Desiring,' 'Silent Night,' 'Go Tell It On The Mountain' and the 'Wexford Carol,' among others. In other words, whether an Irish traditional, American spiritual or Alfred Burt carol, the common thread is the versatility of this Contemporary Christian group. 'Mary, Did You Know' is revitalized, with a soulful lead by Randy Crenshaw, transforming it into an emotional pop ballad; the resonant 'Noel! Noel!', augmented by a refrain played on recorder, and a lively renaissance country-dance rhythm, is joyful and festive. Each Haven member's voice possesses an attractive brilliance of tone, and the four voices together have an exceptional depth.

Songlist: Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring, Joy to the World, Mary, Did You Know?, Noel! Noel!, Wexford Carol, Silent Night, Little Drummer Boy, All on a Christmas Morning, Do You Hear What I Hear?, On Come, O Come, Emmanuel, Lo, How a Rose, What Are the Signs?, Go, Tell It on the Mountain

Haven Quartet : Come Let Us Adore Him

Review: Beautifully accompanied with a variety of instruments including recorders and Uilleann pipes, this CD draws from a number of different sources for it's material. 'Good Christian Men, Rejoice,' is a fourteenth century carol; 'I Wonder As I Wander,' is an Appalachian traditional with a contemporary vocal treatment, and a spoken introduction about the birth of Jesus (called a 'lesson,' of which there are six in total). There are also purely instrumental versions of 'Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring,' 'O Little Town of Bethlehem,' 'Silent Night' and 'We Three Kings.' In accordance with the holiness of the season, the arrangements are restrained, the manner reverential. The Haven Quartet reminds us of the purpose and significance of the holiday celebration.

Songlist: Of the Father's Love, Good Christian Men, Rejoyce, Gaudete, Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring, I Wonder As I Wander, Once In David's Royal City, O Little Town of Bethlehem, For Love's Sake, Hallelujah Chorus, God Rest Ye, Merry Gentlemen, Silent Night, O Holy Night, How Great Our Joy, While Shepherds Watched, Do not Be Afraid, Rise Up Shepherd and Follow, We Three Kings, Christmas Song (for all year 'reound)

King's Heralds : Christmas

Review: The oldest continuous Gospel quartet in America, the King's Heralds began in the state of Texas nearly eighty years ago, with four college students. Throughout the years, this ministry has reached out with the good news of Jesus in song in thirty different languages, and in over fifty countries via recordings, radio, and television. 29 men have been a part of the quartet since their founding and they have recorded on over 100 albums. "Christmas" is the first recording of Christmas songs by the Heralds in 14 years, and features the distinctive arrangements of Wayne Hooper, who sang baritone with the KH for 18 years, arranging and composing for the group to 33 years. 13 a cappella Christmas classics with Hooper's, clean, tight, jazzy harmonies: "Behold That Star," "My Pretty Little Jesus," "Angels Singing O'er the Plains," "Shepherd's Pipe Carol," "Do You Hear What I Hear," "Silent Night" and "Carol of the Drum"... this is just a great collection of Christmas tunes by the oldest and possibly the best Gospel quartet ever!

Songlist: Behold That Star, Away in a Manger, My Pretty Little Jesus, Angels Singing O'er The Plains, O Come, All Ye Faithful, Shepherd's Pipe Carol, Coventry Carol, Do You Hear What I Hear?, Go, Tell it On The Mountain, Silent Night, Break Forth, O Beauteous Heavenly Light, O holy Night, Carol of the Drum

Marty Parks : Men Sing Christmas CD

Review: A heavenly host of great music for men's voices in the Advent and Christmas season. This collection from Marty Parks has established a treasured place in music ministry. The essence of the Christmas story is captured in a variety of styles. Collection includes service openers, anthems, calls to prayer, and benedictions.

Songlist: Amen, Child of Bethlehem, Christmas Presence, How Great Our Joy!, Jesus, the Light of the World, Jesus, the Son of God, Joyfully We Sing, Mary Had A Baby, O Come, All Ye Faithful, O Little Town of Bethlehem, O Lord, Most Holy, Once In Royal David's City, Prince of Peace, We Have Seen His Star

Master's Men : A Cappella Christmas

Review: Formed in 1995, the 18-strong Master's Men love to sing a cappella because listeners can really hear the harmony and the words. . Directed by Rudy Partin, a skilled and experienced director and arranger, the Men, who accept no fees or payments, share the goal of providing inspirational 4 to 6 part music for the glory of God. 2 excellent recordings precede "Christmas," "Songs From The Old Country Church" and "When We All Get Together." 10 songs: "Go, Tell It on the Mountain," "O Little Town of Bethlehem," "O Come, O Come Emmanuel," "Lo, How a Rose E'er Blooming," "O Holy Night," "Sweet Little Jesus Boy," "Carol of the Bells," "Mary, Did You Know?," "O Come, All Ye Faithful," and "Silent Night, Holy Night." There is tremendous depth and feeling in these songs, to go with the rich, sweet harmonies. Just beautiful, and recommended!

Songlist: Go, Tell It On the Mountain, O Little Town of Bethlehem, O Come, O Come Emmanuel, Lo, How A Rose E'er Blooming, O Holy Night, Sweet Little Jesus Boy, Carol of the Bells, Mary, Did You Know?, O Come, All Ye Faithful, Silent Night, Holy Night

Montreal Jubilation Gospel Choir : Joy To The World

Review: Joy To The World - Jubilation V, was originally intended to be a Christmas record, but it is definitely one that can be enjoyed all year round. It features such tracks as "Geographical Fugue for Speaking Chorus" and their version of "Amazing Grace" proved the choir to be at the top of its power. Indeed, as Canada's music business trade, The Record, stated in their review, "The Choir has now moved well beyond their original black roots. This is, in fact, more of a choral "world music" album. This recording was awarded a JUNO Award in the best blues or gospel album category.

Songlist: Gregorian Chant, Gloria In Excelsis Deo, Remember, Quel Est l'Enfant Qui Est Ne Ce Soir, Wohl Mir Da§ Ich Jesum Habe, Over My Head, Stille Nacht (O Nuit De Paix) (Silent Night), Go Tell It On The Mountain, Amazing Grace, King Of Orient, Geographical Fugue For Speaking Chorus, Calypso Christmas Medley: Joy To The World/O Come All Ye Faithful/Les Anges Dans Nos Campagne..., Amen

Naturally 7 : Christmas A Love Story

Review: In 1999 Naturally Seven had been singing together as a group only a short time when they won the NYC Harmony Sweeps Regionals, then stunned the a cappella world by winning the National Finals in San Rafael. They were quickly signed by PAC Records to record their excellent debut CD, "Non-Fiction." Touring extensively in the US, they went on to create big followings in Japan, Switzerland, Austria and particularly Germany, while recording 4 more CDs, one of them "Christmas...It's a Love Story." 28 songs, featuring Nat 7's trademark complex, butter-smooth Gospel harmonies - some favorites: the wonderful originals "What Day Is It?," "Love Story," "No Christmas Without You," "In Your Eyes (Baby Girl)," "Can I Play My Song" and "If the Lord Allows;" and the traditional carols "Hark, The Herald Angels Sing," "What Child Is This?," "Little Drummer Boy" and "Silent Night." Also nice are "Rejoice," "Beethoven's Pastoral Symphony 5th Movement (The Shepherd's Song)," "Pachelbel's Canon in D," "Stille Nacht" (German), "Kiyoshi Kono Yoru," (Japanese) "Nuit de Paix," (French) and "Noche de Paz" (Spanish) and "That Thing/We Wish You A Merry Christmas." These seven young men have produced an amazing body of work, and one of the best Holiday CDs of the year!

Songlist: Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas, Love Story, Hark, The Herald Angels Sing, What Child Is This? (Greensleeves), No Christmas Without You, In Your Eyes (Baby Girl), O Little Town Of Bethlehem, O Come, O Come Emmanuel, We Three Kings, Silent Night, Kiyoshi Kono Yoru, Nuit de Paix, Noche de Paz, O Holy Night, Happy Xmas (War Is Over), Two Friends, White Christmas, Joy To The World

No Better Cause : Perfect Peace

Review: Lincoln, Nebraska's Contemporary Christian male quintet No Better Cause knocked us out with "Sanctuary," and now bring us an amazing Christmas album, "Perfect Peace." The group's refreshingly funky vocal percussion side is evident on most of these 11 group-arranged standards, on songs like "Carol of the Bells," the wonderfully arranged "Little Drummer Boy," "Perfect Peace," "Hark the Herald Angels Sing" and "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen." The sweet, soulful side we loved on "Sanctuary" is still here, on "Silent Night," "O, Holy Night" and "The First Noel." There's also a pair of nice originals, Fred Hammond's "We Sing Glory," and group member Lucas Kellison's very fine "World Stops." The bottom line here is, we love these guys, and "Perfect Peace" is a joyful Christmas treat from beginning to end!

Songlist: Carol of the Bells (intro), Carol of the Bells, Little Drummer Boy, Perfect Peace, Hark The Herald Angels Sing, Silent Night, We Sing Glory, O, Holy Night, God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen, The First Noel, World Stops

Poor Baker's Dozen : Christmas with

Review: St. Paul, MN's all-male Contemporary Christian sextet Poor Baker's Dozen's "Christmas with PBD" is their 4th excellent CD. We can't tell you very much about the group because the liner notes are sparse, and their website focuses on their ministry-which we like, because it places the emphasis on the group's calling as opposed to promoting themselves individually as singers. 8 songs, a very nicely arranged "Drummer Boy," a fine original by group member David Olson, "Redeemer in the Hay," "Pat-a-Pan," "Good Stuff" (the group's comment on Christmas consumption, writing new words to the Young Rascals' classic "Good Lovin',") "Gabriel's Message," "Silent Night" and the group-arranged "Amen." Some light percussion played by the group. PBD prefers to let their music and message do the talking, and "Christmas with PBD" speaks quite eloquently!

Songlist: Drummer Boy, Redeemer In The Hay, Pat a Pan, Gentle Mary, Good Stuff, Gabriel's Message, Silent Night, Amen

Praise-apella : Follow the Star

Review: Pride of Avon Lake, Ohio, mixed-voice Contemporary a cappella Quintet (two women, three men) Praise-Apella brings us their 2nd excellent album, "Follow the Star," a Christmas collection. The group's top-drawer vocal percussion, sweet leads & harmonies and wonderful arrangements have gained them lots of airplay and many fans on the popular Christian FM radio station The Fish. There are five tunes here, beginning with a very nice, re-arranged pair of traditional carols, "I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day" and "O' Come All Ye Faithful." Then there's a wonderful cover of Marc Marte & Jason Germain's insightful "How Many Kings," a surprising, reinvented cover of George Michael's "Last Christmas" and finally a lively cover of Jose Feliciano's "Feliz Navidad" that features very cool faux horns. This is a short but sweet collection by the fast-rising, innovative and inspirational Praise-Apella, who invite us to "follow the star and you will find a new life in Jesus. Have a Blessed & Merry Christmas!"

Songlist: I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day, O' Come All Ye Faithful, How Many Kings, Last Christmas, Feliz Navidad

Praise-apella : The Perfect Gift

Review: Cleveland, OH based contemporary Christian vocal band Praise-apella are certainly one of the most exiting a cappella groups to emerge over the past few years and this new Christmas release certainly helps further that reputation. Strong individual voices blend seamlessly with interesting arrangements by Ryan Fischer and the group that keeps one's attention. "Do They Know" is a particular treat and "The Angles Medley" will be sure to get you in the Christmas spirit. Sung with feeling this all a cappella recording is indeed The Perfect Gift.

Songlist: Silent Night, Joy to the World, Do They Know?, Hark, The Herald Angel Sing, O Holy Night, Angels Medley, The First Noel, Mary, Did You Know?, We Are The Reason, How Great Is Our God

Take 6 : He is Christmas

Review: Contemporary Christian group Take 6 are virtuoso singers with a flawless grasp of harmonic theory. This vocabulary enables them to create arrangements that are resplendent with original ideas, though built on an unassailable foundation. 'Silent Night' is a haunting mysterious dance with the familiar melody line, a departure point for the jazz chord voicings that are essential imagery of Take 6. The group's own 'Oh!, He Is Christmas' is a sophisticated soul didactic. 'Away In A Manger' is rooted in a repeating bass part - the breath of the tune - while the lead is freed up to explore every vocal contour. 'Amen' is a smooth gospel-go-round, joyous and bright. If you want uniquely brilliant interpretations of your Christmas favorites, this is the CD for you.

Songlist: Silent Night, Oh! He Is Christmas, Hark! The Herald The Angels Sing, Away In The Manger, Amen!, The Little Drummer Boy, 'Twas Da Nite, Sweet Little Jesus Boy, God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen, O Come All Ye Faithful

Take 6 : The Most Wonderful Time of the Year

Review: Legendary, pioneering Contemporary Christian A Cappella group Take 6 has been mixing elements of Jazz, Gospel, R&B and Doo-Wop for nearly 25 years, winning 10 Grammys, 10 Dove Awards, one Soul Train Award, and two NAACP Image Awards in the process. Claude, Mark, Joel, David, Dr. Cedric and Alvin bring us a cool 10-song collection of Christmas tunes from their childhoods: a finger-popping title tune, smooth and jazzy "The Sugar Plum Dance" (based on "Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy"), a wonderfully greasy "You're a Mean One, Mr. Grinch," a breezy, jazzy "Sleigh Ride," a surprising, salsa-flavored "White Christmas," eggnog-smooth bluenote Jazz arrangements of "I'll Be Home For Christmas" and "It Came Upon a Midnight Clear;" a rewritten, strikingly-arranged take on "I Saw Three Ships," and a piano-accompanied "Christmas Time is Here," featuring a sweet lead by a marvelous female guest vocalist. Take 6 has delighted and amazed us through the years of their groundbreaking career, and we were very happy to receive "The Most Wonderful Time of the Year" and feel that way again, listening to this finely-crafted album. It's been a long wait for a new T6 release, but this makes it all worth it!

Songlist: It's The Most Wonderful Time of the Year, White Christmas, Grinch Introduction/ The Grinch/ "You're a Mean One, Mr. Grinch", Sleigh Ride, I'll Be Home for Christmas, It Came Upon a Midnight Clear, The Sugarplum Dance (Dance of the Sugarplum Fairy), I Saw Three Ships, Jingle Bells, Christmas Time Is Here

Various Artists : Voices: A Gospel Choir Christmas

Review: The power of the gospel choir comes to life in this uplifting and spiritual holiday collection by today's top gospel stars including Kirk Franklin and the Family, Patti LaBelle, Israel & New Breed, Fred Hammond, Hezekiah Walker and Donald Lawrence. Voices: A Gospel Choir Christmas features inspirational choir arrangements of holiday classics together in one special collection, offered at a value price. Voices brings the sounds of the gospel choir right into your home. Now listeners anywhere can feel that special spirit that could only come from a gospel choir, with classics like Silent Night, The First Noel, Go Tell It on the Mountain and O Holy Night.

Songlist: Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas, Now Behold the Lamb, Silent Night, He Is The Reason, Go, Tell it on the Mountain, Tidings, The First Noel, O Holy Night, 12 Days of Christmas, Emmanuel, More Than a Holiday, He Has Come

Voices Of Lee : A Cappella Christmas

Review: Their first Christmas CD was a best seller and this new release is all a cappella and absolutely stunning. Highly recommended!

Songlist: Christmas Time Is Here, The First Noel, Carol of the Bells, Do You Hear What I Hear?, Little Drummer Boy, One Small Child, I Pray On Christmas, Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas, Mary Did You Know?, What A Beautiful Name

Haven Quartet : Best of Christmas by Haven

Review: Decades of worship and musical excellence define the legacy of the Haven musicians. On this 2-disc collection, there are 32 tracks spanning 5 decades. Each track was hand-selected as the "best of the best" by Haven's own Paul Sandberg. Truly, for those who love the music of Haven, this is the definite Christmas collection.

Songlist: O Come All Ye Faithful, The First Noel, One Small Child, Do You Hear What I Hear?, Have You Ever Seen the Star?, While Shepherds Watched, O Holy Night, Lo, How A Rose, I Know Now, Once In David's Royal City, Unto Us, Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring, It Came Upon A Midnight Clear, Peace, Peace/Silent Night, Christmas Song, God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen, Angels We Have Heard, How Great Our Joy, Go, Tell it on the Mountain, Not Just Any Night, Mary, Did You Know?, Infant Holy, O Little Town of Bethlehem, Bethlehem, How Should A King Come, Carol Of the Bells, Do Not Be Afraid, Would It Still Be Christmas, Away In A Manger, Tiny Little Baby, and more

Dale Mathews : Here We Come a'Caroling - CD Practice Trax

Review: Each year as December rolls around, one of the first reminders that Christmastime is upon us is the music that fills the air! We can't help but join in as we sing songs of the season - songs that inspire the joy and spirit of Christmas, songs that will lead your choir and congregation in worship of the King - giving voice to the wonder surrounding the story of the birth of Christ.

Some songs take us back to the simple joys of childhood, others share the timeless truths of that first Christmas night. HERE WE COME a'CAROLING introduces inspiring new songs, such as the title song and the Gospel-flavored "Joyful, Wonderful News!", along with popular Christian radio songs of the season, like Chris Tomlin's "It's Christmas." And of course, with a title like HERE WE COME a'CAROLING, you just know there's going to be plenty of opportunity to sing along with some of your favorite carols!

Bruce Greer : Winter Snow

Review: Uses: Christmas Eve, Christmas, Youth Choir Scripture: Luke 2:1-7 A quiet, gentle snowfall is likened to the arrival of the Christ Child in this contemporary seasonal selection, originally recorded by Audrey Assad and Chris Tomlin. An artful piano accompaniment and the use of In the Bleak Midwinter throughout add to the mystery and mood of the piece. Exquisite! Score and Parts (fl, perc 1-2, vn 1-2, va, vc, db) available as a digital download. ScorePlay - click to view score with recording.

Sheet Music Available: SATB

As Performed by: Chris Tomlin

John Leavitt : Sing Noel, Alleluia!

Review: Uses: Christmas, Concert Scripture: Matthew 1:1-11; Luke 2:1-20 This is your festive finale moment for holiday programming! A masterful rendition of a cadre of colorful Christmas carols, this choral tour de force is sure to be a hit with audiences everywhere. The significant piano part is filled with supportive yet artful moments sure to delight the accompanist, and with multiple voicings and a chamber orchestration available, this will work for almost every type of ensemble. Score and Parts (fl 1-2, ob, cl 1-2, bn, perc 1-3, hp, vn 1-2, va, vc, db) available as a Printed Edition and as a digital download.

Sheet Music Available: SATB,   SAB,   SSA,   TTB,   SSA,   SATB,   SAB,   TTB

Rollo Dilworth : Pretty Little Baby

Review: Celebrate the birth of the Christ Child with this driving and soulful arrangement by Rollo Dilworth. Sing along with the outstanding ChoirTrax or put a rhythm section together for a live worship experience. Available separately: SATB, ChoirTrax CD. Rhythm parts (pno/gtr, b, dm) available as a digital download. Duration: ca. 3:45.

Sheet Music Available: SATB,   SSA,   SSA,   SATB

As Performed by: James Cleveland

Dale Mathews : Here We Come a'Caroling - Listening CD

Review: Each year as December rolls around, one of the first reminders that Christmastime is upon us is the music that fills the air! We can't help but join in as we sing songs of the season - songs that inspire the joy and spirit of Christmas, songs that will lead your choir and congregation in worship of the King - giving voice to the wonder surrounding the story of the birth of Christ.

Some songs take us back to the simple joys of childhood, others share the timeless truths of that first Christmas night. HERE WE COME a'CAROLING introduces inspiring new songs, such as the title song and the Gospel-flavored "Joyful, Wonderful News!", along with popular Christian radio songs of the season, like Chris Tomlin's "It's Christmas." And of course, with a title like HERE WE COME a'CAROLING, you just know there's going to be plenty of opportunity to sing along with some of your favorite carols!

Dale Mathews : Light of Bethlehem

Review: Easy-to-Learn, Easy-to-Sing are the hallmarks of this popular series from Word Music & Church Resources...built on a foundation of great arrangements from some of today's leading arrangers, expertly repurposed into a Unison Choir format, and featuring accompaniment tracks that will make your choir sound bigger than life (along with an Accompaniment DVD designed to give your presentation the same flair and impact you would normally expect to find in much bigger, more elaborate productions!). This joyous, fun and simple musical is great for choirs that are challenged on resources and rehearsal time, yet big on spirit, talent and heart! Perfectly appropriate for choirs of any size, Light of Bethlehem lends a delightful opportunity to grow and expand the performance options of smaller choirs, while also offering perfect "practically-no-rehearsal needed" material for larger, more experienced choirs.

Light of Bethlehem is sure to distinguish your choir from the rest, and enable your music ministry to far exceed everyone's expectations. Let the easy-learn-easy-sing unison format of Word's Very Simply Series enhance your choir's ability and give you the leadership resource you need to encourage them to present their most powerful Christmas program to date!

Dale Mathews : Noel, Christ Is Born! - Choral Book

Review: Word Music & Church Resources' best-selling Unison/2-Part Choir, easy-learn, easy-sing imprint, the Very Simply Word Series, is proud to present its newest release, Noel, Christ Is Born! What better way to kick-off the Christmas season than with joyous songs of celebration? Your congregation will love these newly arranged songs, such as Christ Is Come with O Come, All Ye Faithful; Light of the World; The Wonder of It All, and more, specially arranged for unison/2-part choirs! Creating the perfect celebratory Christmas service, Noel, Christ Is Born! will be an impactful performance your choir and congregation will never forget.

Dale Matthews : Glorious Song, Marvelous Light

Review: Easy-to-Learn, Easy-to-Sing are the hallmarks of this popular series from Word Music & Church Resources. Each musical in the Very Simply Word Series is built on a foundation of great selections by some of today's leading arrangers, each of the songs having been expertly repurposed into a Unison Choir (Optional 2-Part) format. Each musical in the series features epic-sounding accompaniment tracks, designed to make your choir sound bigger than life. GLORIOUS SONG, MARVELOUS LIGHT is sure to allow your choir to stand out from the rest. Let the Easy-to-Learn-Easy-to-Sing unison format of Word Music & Church Resource's Very Simply Word Series enhance your choir's outreach, as you encourage them in presenting their most powerful Christmas program ever!

Daniel Semsen : Season of Joy - A Celtic Christmas Celebration

Review: Combining the passion of Celtic musical traditions and the joyous celebration of Christ's birth, SEASON OF JOY offers a spectacular collection of new and beloved seasonal songs that will perfectly complement any Christmas program. Acclaimed arranger/orchestrator Daniel Semsen has brilliantly married traditional Celtic instrumentation with a vibrant contemporary sound. Featuring four new songs by Keith and Kristyn Getty, this one-of-a-kind musical combines such Irish classics as "The Wexford Carol" with exciting new Celtic-inspired arrangements of Chris Tomlin's "Emmanuel (Hallowed Manger Ground)" and Travis Cottrell's "Jesus Saves." A standout offering is the stunning overture, which features fiddles, penny whistles and bagpipes. No less than one dozen familiar carols artfully weave their way through the work, inviting your congregation to fully join the celebration. Two optional narrations, a sequence of dramatic readings and production notes by Deborah Craig-Claar have also been provided, allowing you to customize the work to your presentational needs. This year, share the SEASON OF JOY with your choir, your church and your community.

Marty Parks : The Christmas Song

Review: What better way to celebrate the season than by singing The Christmas Song! Especially designed for Senior Adult Choirs, this musical traces the message of Christmas from prophecy to the angels' announcement right up to this very day. With accessible vocal ranges, large print and no repeats, The Christmas Song is a 35-minute work featuring an exciting blend of familiar carols, newer songs of the season and well-loved worship songs. All in all, an ideal resource for Christmas worship and community outreach. Choral book designed in large print with clearly legible music and text

Voicing: Children

Various : When Love Was Born

Review: The significance of the night Christ was born is told in this simple setting of great arrangements by some of today's most loved arrangers. Only 20 minutes in length, the unison/two-part voicing is accessible for choirs of any size without sacrificing the stirring musical emotions of the season. Featuring thoughtful scriptural narration and Richard Kingsmore's well-crafted choral parts, your choir will shine as they sing of the joyous night When Love Was Born.

Benjamin Harlan : A Child This Day

Review: The triumphant opening Prepare the Way of the Lord sets the tone for this joyous and celebratory Christmas cantata. A children's choir is featured in two sections, bringing innocence and simplicity to the telling of the story. It displays some of Harlan's best writing and truly a signature work. Songs include: Prepare the Way of the Lord, My Soul Magnifies the Lord, A Child This Day, Hush My Babe Lie Still and Slumber, O Sing a Song of Bethlehem, The Wise May Bring Their Learning, and O Come All Ye Faithful. Full orchestration available.Available separately: SATB, Orchestra Pak/ePak, CD 10-Pak, Preview CD, Preview Pak and ChoirTrax Accompaniment CD. Performance Time: Approx. 30:00.

Songlist: A Child This Day, A Christmas Fanfare, Gentle Mary Laid Her Child, Hush My Babe, My Soul Magnifies The Lord, O Come, All Ye Faithful, O Sing A Song Of Bethlehem, Prepare The Way Of The Lord, The Wise May Bring Their Learning

Derric Johnson : Christmas in Velvet Charts

Review: Quite probably the busiest performing a cappella group in the country The Voices of Liberty are also one of the longest running professional a cappella groups as they perform several sets each and every day at Disney World in Orlando, Florida. The group follows in an even longing-running tradition of Regeneration, as both are almost the same as they were both directed by, and perform almost exclusively the arrangements of, the great Derric Johnson. The sheet music we've all been waiting for, finally some of Derric Johnson's finest Christmas arrangements have been printed for us to sing! Included are 3 Volumes of 4 songs each from the namesake recordings.

Songlist: A Cappella Christmas Vol. 1, Away in a Manger, Gesu Bambino, Go, Tell it on the Mountain, O Holy Night, A Cappella Christmas Vol. 2, Deck the Halls, Go Where I Send Thee, It Came Upon the Midnight Clear, Jingle Bells, A Cappella Christmas Vol. 3, Christmas In The Air, French Chorale of Praise, Pat-a-Pan, We Wish You A Merry Christmas

Take 6 : A Take 6 Christmas

Review: One of the most well known A Cappella groups of today, Take 6 continues to amaze us with their beautiful and unique arrangements. 'A Take 6 Christmas' is an exciting medley of classic Christmas carols, including "Silent Night," "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing," "Sweet Little Jesus Boy," and "O Come, All Ye Faithful," as recorded on the He Is Christmas album. In 'A Quiet Place,' the guys take this subtle hymn and turn into a triumphant, yet soothing, gem with lush harmonies and lots of heart.

Songlist: A Take 6 Christmas (A Medley), Hark! The Herald Angels Sing (medley), Sweet Little Jesus Boy (medley), O Come, All Ye Faithful (medley)

Heather Sorenson : Christ Was Born for This

Review: Uses: Christmas, Communion Scripture: John 3:16; Isaiah 7:14; Galatians 4:4 The final words, Christ was born for this, from the traditional carol, Good Christian Men, Rejoice, form the foundational textural concept of this new carol. The carol's tune is realized in minor and expressively altered reminding the listener that Christ was born for a divine purpose. We find ourselves looking beyond the manger to the cross. The music is cinematic in character and brings a soundtrack aspect to this message of grace. The interweaving of In Dulci Jubilo and Carol of the Bells is masterful. StudioTrax CD containst Accompaniment, Split-Track, & Full Performance. Available separately: SATB, StudioTrax CD, Orchestration CD-rom (Score & parts for Flute 1&2, Oboe, Clarinet 1&2, Bassoon, Horn 1&2, Trumpet 1, Trumpet 2&3, Trombone 1&2, Bass Trombone/Tuba, Timp, Perc 1&2, Harp, Violin 1, Violin 2, Viola, Cello, Double Bass). Duration: ca. 3:26.

Sheet Music Available: SATB,   SATB

Heather Sorenson : For Unto Us a Child is Born

Review: StudioTrax CD contains Accompaniment & Performance tracks.

Sheet Music Available: SATB

Joseph Martin : Ring the Bells

Review: Uses: Christmas Eve, Christmas, Epiphany Scripture: Luke 2 A modern evergreen for Christmas, this carol has been a perennial favorite of soloists for years. This festive setting captures the spirit of the season with solid part writing and a bell-like piano part. The orchestration is lavish and appropriate to the theme while the optional handbell part wraps this Christmas package up with joyful ribbons of praise. Available separately: SATB, Handbells (digital, 4-5 octaves), StudioTrax CD (Accomp., SplitTrax, Perf.), Orchestration (Score & Parts for Flute 1 & 2, Oboe, Clarinet 1 & 2, Bassoon, Horn 1 & 2, Trumpet 1-3, Trombone 1 & 2, Trombone 3/Tuba, Timpani, Percussion, Harp, Piano, Violin 1 & 2, Viola, Cello, Double Bass). Duration: ca. 3:31.

Sheet Music Available: SATB,   SATB

Joseph Martin : The Peace Carol

Review: Uses: Christmas, Concert, Community Chorus, Children Scripture: Isaiah 57:19; Matthew 5:9; Ephesians 2:17; Romans 12:18 Take a walk down memory lane with this lovely Christmas card made famous by John Denver and the Muppets on one of their holiday specials. Lilting like a folk song, this light-hearted selection reminds us that peace is possible. With options for incorporating children or youth choirs, the warm sentiment of this universal subject will wrap its arms around the audience with hope and grace. Available separately: SATB, StudioTrax CD (Accomp., SplitTrax, Perf.).

Sheet Music Available: 3-Part,   2-Part,   2-Part,   3-Part

Mac Huff : Believe

Review: The sweetness and innocence of a child's view of Christmas are fully evident in this warm ballad by superstar Josh Groban. Rising to number one on the charts, it was featured in The Polar Express.

Sheet Music Available: 2-Part,   SAB,   SATB,   SSA,   SAB,   SATB,   2-Part

As Performed by: Josh Groban

Mac Huff : Grown Up Christmas List

Review: Recorded by Amy Grant, this song expresses the deepest wish in everyone's heart, the hope for peace and of a better world. Ideal for featuring a special soloist, this pop ballad will create a magical moment in your performance!Available separately: SATB, SAB, SSA, and ShowTrax CD. Performance time: Approx. 3:30.

Sheet Music Available: SAB,   SATB,   SSA

As Performed by: Amy Grant

Mark Hayes : Sounds of the Season

Review: Uses: Christmas, Festival Scripture: Luke 2:13-14 A choral tour de force, this energizing octavo is an explosion of sound complete with a scintillating piano accompaniment and vocal pyrotechnics that will bring out the best in your group. This glorious original creation is perfect for large-scale Christmas pageants or for multi-choir festivals. The tasty orchestration is the perfect adornment for what is sure to be a best-selling standard for the holidays. StudioTrax CD contains Accompaniment, Split-Track & Full Performances tracks. Available separately: SATB, StudioTrax CD, Orchestration CD-rom (Score & parts for Violin 1&2, Viola, Cello, Double Bass, Orchestra Bells, Chimes). Duration: ca. 3:20.

Sheet Music Available: SATB,   SATB

Roger Emerson : Breath of Heaven

Review: The miracle of Christmas is expressively portrayed through the peaceful, reflective atmosphere of this lovely song recorded by Amy Grant. Available: SATB, SAB, SSA, ShowTrax CD. Performance Time: Approx. 5:15.

Sheet Music Available: SAB,   SATB,   SSA,   2-Part

As Performed by: Amy Grant

Roger Emerson : When Love Came Down

Review: What an exciting new Christmas work for choirs of all ages! From the dynamic vocal group Point of Grace this energetic piece is alive with the spirit of celebration. Not to be missed! Available: SATB, SAB, SSA, ShowTrax CD. Performance Time: Approx. 3:25.

Sheet Music Available: SATB,   SSA

As Performed by: Point Of Grace

Amy Grant : Home for Christmas

Review: Matching folio with 12 songs, including: Emmanuel, God with Us - Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas - The Most Wonderful Time of the Year - My Grown Up Christmas List - O Come All Ye Faithful - and more.

Songlist: The Night Before Christmas, Breath Of Heaven (Mary's Song), Emmanuel, God With Us, Jesu, Joy Of Man's Desiring, Joy To The World/For Unto Us A Child Is Born, Rockin' Around The Christmas Tree, The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year, Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas, I'll Be Home For Christmas, Grown-Up Christmas List, O Come, All Ye Faithful (Adeste Fideles), Winter Wonderland

Style: Contemporary Christian