STYLE: Ambient/Meditational RATING OUR PRODUCT CODE: 95764-17257 LABEL: Kingsway KMCD3103 FORMAT: CD Album ITEMS: 1 RELEASE DATE: 2010-09-20 RRP: £7.49
Reviewed by Lins Honeyman
Despite the painful pun contained in its title, this collection of Christmas songs from Phil Keaggy is top notch stuff and finds the Nashville songsmith on top form. Sentimental but never schmaltzy, Keaggy reminisces about Christmases past in the opener "Best Christmas Morn" and the delightful "Village Bells" - the latter seeing the artist duet with his daughter Olivia. Elsewhere, renditions of "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen" and "In The Bleak Midwinter" plus the clever collage of yuletide melodies "Shades Of Green And Red" showcase his skills as an interpreter of classics and intricate guitarist whilst the likes of "Let Us Go To Bethlehem" betray a distinct McCartney influence that flows throughout the album. Keaggy ensures that the Christ in Christmas is highlighted with the worshipful "Father" and "For The King (A Melodious Theme)" promoting the true reason for the season. Largely thanks to the acoustic and organic nature of the instrumentation and Keaggy's distinctive laidback vocal style, this is a sensitive portrait of Christmas that will enhance your festive season and remind you of its real meaning.
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.
Product Description
From one of the worlds most renown guitarists Welcome Inn captures the intimacy and message that is all about the Christmas season.
Most of these 12 recordings produced are vocal songs with a seasonal sound celebrating Christmas that is sure to touch the heart. Phil is joined by other vocalists such as Nina Landis and his daughter Olivia and son Ian