Reviewed by Steven Whitehead

Friar Alessandro has recorded an album of Christmas carols and sacred arias or, as he describes it, an album of Joy. Since his first album was released in 2012, Alessandro has begun to make a name for himself and although perhaps not "The Voice" he is certainly blessed with a great voice. When recording his debut 'Voice From Assisi', Alessandro had never before been on a plane. Since then he has flown across Europe and for this album he travelled even further, to Bethlehem to record two of the tracks - his first visit to the Holy Land. Alessandro performed "Adeste Fideles" ("O Come Let Us Adore Him") in the place where Jesus was born and he sang in the Shepherd's Field where the Angel appeared to the shepherd's to announce the birth of Jesus. Also featured on two of the tracks is the official chorus of the Metropolitan Cathedral, Buenos Aires, Coro Regina Coeli. They were the official choir to Pope Francis, when he was Archbishop in Argentina. They perform on "Alto E Glorioso Dio" with Alessandro, a beautiful prayer written by St Francis of Assisi. 'Voice Of Joy' is an album of joyful music and an easy recommendation for your Christmas listening pleasure.

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.

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