Stocking Stuffers

What is the true meaning of Christmas? I do not know, for that is entirely too deep for a one line answer. What I do know is this: commercialism has taken over many aspects of Christmas, leaving one wondering where the Christian Music industry stands in this respect. How is tradition and entertainment woven together in a way that can represent the birth of a savior?

Jaci Velasquez ranks at the top this year with “Christmas.” Including traditional Christmas hits like “White Christmas” and “O Little Town Of Bethlehem.” Most interesting is the jazzy version of “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas,” hinting of a new direction Jaci could be heading to musically. Overall, Jaci remains true to tradition as she states; “I love Christmas music. For my ideal Christmas album, I wanted to record the songs I have always loved, done in their classic arrangements, just keeping them true to the beauty that is in the song itself.” On an entertainment level, Jaci may be responsible for the rebirth of “Alvin and the Chipmunks,” with their duet “Christmas Don’t Be Late.”

To tell the story of Christ’s birth with music, what better group to share it than, “Go Fish.” Known for their vocal appeal and harmonizing qualities, “Go Fish” has released a Christmas album that will hit home for the holidays. This album covers a broad horizon with everything from unique cartoon theme songs (The Grinch Song) to traditional carols. “More than a Story” is a fitting title for an expressive album that tells a tale in history. Christ’s birth changed life as we know it forever. That is more than a story!

Newsong is back this year with “The Christmas Shoes” album, following up on last years hit song about a little boy trying to buy his dying mother a new pair of Christmas shoes. “…It’s Christmas Eve, and these shoes are just her size… And I want her to look beautiful ­ if Mama meets Jesus tonight…” These are very heartbreaking lyrics and I’m reminded that Christmas time isn’t all “joy” for everyone. Loneliness, grieving for the lost, and depression are as common. “Light Your World” goes on to tell about a lonely widow who sits home alone at Christmas time recalling the past when suddenly she’s visited by a neighborhood child bearing flowers. “Light your world, Let the love of God shine through, In the little things you do…” Newsong livens things up with a Christmas classic “You’re A Mean One, Mr Grinch,” and a handful of traditional Christmas songs that are jazzy, some big band, pop, and traditional.

The Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir’s “Light Of the World” was well completed before the Sep 11th tragedies, but now more than ever, the choir’s home church can be a shinning light. Since it’s conception the Brooklyn Tabernacle, pastored by Jim Cymbala, has grown from 15 ­ 20 worshipers to nearly 6000! The churches choir, directed by Carol Cymbala, consists of 275 members. A multi cultural and economic mix with little to no formal musical training. “Light Of the World” is more about remembering the birth of Christ our savior and King. Singing, “Glory To God” and “I’ll Give Him My Heart.”

Fred Hammond “Christmas… Just Remember” is a gospel collection of Christmas classics and original songs co-written by Fred. Many of the tracks on “Just Remember” reflect on the birth of Christ. Most notable is “It Took A Child To Save The World,” keying on John 3:16. “A Strange Way To Save The World,” is sung from the viewpoint of Joseph, an ordinary man, who after being visited by an angel of the Lord accepted his role in the birth of a savior. Overall, the theme of the CD follows the title by encouraging the listener to remember the true meaning of Christmas.

Chris Rice returns with his second instrumental recording, “The Living Room Sessions: Christmas,” compiled of quiet beautiful piano arrangements of traditional Christmas classics. Included on this CD are Christmas favorites “Joy To The World,” “Silent Night,” and “Away In A Manager” to name a few. However popular the “Living Room Sessions” are, Rice still intends to return to his pop roots with a studio album in 2002.

Stacie Orrico’s “Christmas Wish” tends to lean away from tradition, far away. Her teen-pop versions of “O Holy Night,” and “What Child Is This” are a bit overdone for the traditionalist. The CD bounces back with an original tune “Christmas Wish,” where Orrico’s vocal talents are highlighted, and the message isn’t lost in pop-flare. Stacie will be taking “Christmas Wish” to the malls this season.

As December approaches and each year nears its close, numerous Christmas albums are released. Christian albums like those mentioned in this article give one a glimpse of the miracle of Christ’s birth. It is a time for celebration and great joy as we are reminded of the best Christmas gift ever, life everlasting. Amen.

-Bridget L.

-Ken W.