The Christmas Album

Christmas albums are tricky things, since the artist is usually dealing with a listener's memory and emotions regarding the season when the song is performed. In the case of this CD, the Barra MacNeils wisely chose to stay fairly traditional and perform the songs as they heard them growing up on the East Coast of Canada. Scottish and Irish Celtic music flow through this CD with every drag of the bow over the violin; yet the traditional carols remain unharmed. "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen" is a prime example: its arrangement showcases their incredibly beautiful harmonies, but their version is faithful to the standard. Due to the traditional nature of the CD, it is both celebratory and sad at the same time. It is difficult to listen to these songs performed in this manner and not yearn for childhood innocence. The spoken word track "Singing in the Streets," for example, (featuring Tommy Makem) reduces the listener to tears. Also worth mentioning is "O Holy Night" performed flawlessly by Lucy MacNeil who possesses a truly angelic voice. This CD sits comfortably with the Chieftains' Bells of Dublin CD, and it is a welcome addition to anyone's collection.