Reviewed by Matthew Cordle

The sleevenotes describe 'Christmas Presence' as a collection of Christmas songs set in a style that incorporates Jean's love of both classical and popular music. Jean was originally a professional classical violinist but she subsequently took up vocal training and now travels ministering through music and speaking. Having previously recorded two CDs this project was recorded in 2004. The arrangements are reflective and sparse, allowing Jean's delicate, somewhat wistful but definitely classical style voice to shine through. Jean's singing is well balanced by the delicacy of her violin playing and this is particularly effective on the 13th century plainsong "Of The Father's Love Begotten" where the violin provides a lilting folk flavour. Chris Eaton's "Breath Of Heaven" and that Yuletide evergreen "Mary Did You Know" by Mark Lowry and Buddy Greene are other highlights. My single minor gripe is that 'Christmas Presence' is only 34 minutes long.

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