Rating : - Choral Splendor
This is one of my favorite choral Christmas CDs. "Songs of Angels" pretty much sums it up, so I don't know what more I can add, but I'll try.
First, let me say that I enjoy all types of Christmas music, with the exception of stuff like "Grandma Got Run Over By a Reindeer," and songs of that ilk. I like secular and sacred, instrumental and vocal, soloists and choirs.
This collection, however, is--how can I put it?--transcendent! Besides the practically flawless blend of voices, the selection and variety of songs is amazing. There are many Christmas moods: joyous, reflective, humorous, poignant, mysterious, awestruck, loving. Every song seems to shimmer with a heart-filling brilliance that almost makes you catch your breath, it's so beautiful.
If you love to listen to great choral music all during the year, this will totally be THE Christmas CD for you. If you like more contemporary secular Christmas music, this probably won't be your cup of tea. If the commercialism of Christmas starts to make you crazy, take a little time off, make a nice cup of cocoa or tea, retire to a room by yourself and listen to this lovely music. It will bring you back to what Christmas is about.