Reviewed by Brendan O'Regan

Since "Indescribable" Laura has, of course, become one of America's admired songwriters and this Christmas album, originally released in 2015, is a pleasing blend of familiar carols given respectful but distinctive treatment and original songs that impress musically and lyrically. Definitely Christmas brings out the creative best when it comes to song writing. The album opens with "Love Is Here", a foot-tapping and mature Christmas pop song co-written by South Carolina-based Story, with a sense of hope and anticipation that pervades the album - "There is a new hope filling every heart." Of the traditional songs I loved the catchy and largely acoustic version of "O Come All Ye Faithful" and as a bonus it's enhanced by the strong harmony vocals of Steven Curtis Chapman. On the soft, piano-driven "Behold The Lamb Of God" Laura is joined on vocals by Brandon Heath, another sweet pairing. There are several songs that could be described as Advent songs, including the anthem-like "Come Thou Long Expected Jesus" - "Long expected Jesus make our hearts your home." And there's a spine-tingling version of "O Come O Come Emmanuel" featuring the beautiful voices of the Brentwood Baptist Church Worship Choir. There are several producer credits, including Brown Bannister, Ben Shive, Jeff Pardo, Andrew Osenga and Cliff Dureen and quality in all departments makes this an outstanding album. Make a note for next Christmas.

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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