Reviewed by Stephen Luff

It is somewhat daunting, the array of different types of Christmas recordings available....ranging from pop through to jazz, worship choruses through to the traditional. The latter is where Elevation have addressed 'Cathedral Praise', a 14-track CD of traditional carols sung by an amazing range of high profile choirs such as the BBC Welsh Chorus, Salisbury Cathedral Choir, Kansas City Chorale and St John's College Choir Cambridge. From the opening trumpet notes on track one it is obvious this is something special. Contained are the well known "Oh Come All Ye Faithful", "The First Noel" and "In The Bleak Midwinter" amongst others. There are also some lesser known works such as the lovely Basque carol "Gabriel's Message" and "Lo! He Comes With Clouds Descending". This collection sits amongst the best out there, offering a "back-to-basics" stirring approach to the season.

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.