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Reviewed by Lins Honeyman

As Christmas fast approaches, Integrity-Provident have released a dual disc compilation (audio on one side and DVD on the other for those not in the know) from its vast stable of artists. Most of the songs featured here are taken from the respective artists' own albums but a lot of thought has gone into this collection nonetheless. There is a refreshing mix of old carols and new songs, avoiding the usual musical regurgitation that is so common these days. The album starts in spectacular style with Michael W Smith's "Gloria", complete with stunning orchestral and choral arrangements and, from then on in, it's a joyful rollercoaster ride of songs celebrating the Saviour's birth. Only once do we take a trip to the dreaded US cheese factory courtesy of Don Moen's sugary "Emmanuel Has Come" but on the whole each track avoids falling back on cliches. Of the carols, "The First Noel" is given the Hillsong treatment whilst Martha Munizzi gives a sterling contemporary presentation of "O Little Town Of Bethlehem" with what must be one of the most complex key changes in history! Munizzi's self-penned "When He Came" proves that the newer songs on this album are much more than just stocking fillers and, "He Made A Way In A Manger" by Candi Pearson Shelton stands out as a great song. The flipside contains eight "videos" of some of the songs from the album itself. In reality, what is presented here is merely images of snow, landscapes and stars with key words from the songs flashing up intermittently with no involvement from the singers themselves. No doubt this will have its uses in a multi media service but, after the quality of the audio side, it all comes as something of a disappointment. In addition, the track listing for this part on the inlay card is in the incorrect order and Candi Pearson Shelton is carelessly credited with Cheryl Rogers' "Joy To The World." For the record, two tracks are featured exclusively on the DVD - "Emmanuel" by Hillsong and "O Holy Night" by MercyMe. Given the quality of these songs, the question remains as to why Integrity left them off the album proper.

This track data is supplied by the Cross Rhythms CD/DVD review library. Please note that CD tracks may vary according to release region or product version. You should not assume that products purchased through Cross Rhythms Direct will necessarily have identical track listings to those shown.