Reviewed by Tom Lennie

"The mystery of the incarnation moves us to worship," says the liner notes, "captivates our imaginations and brings us to our knees." This recording certainly helps capture the true essence of that unfathomable Event, being a wonderfully sensitive and totally non-cheesy collection of advent songs, played by a "community" of US musicians that includes Derek Webb (Caedmon's Call) along with recently-wed Sandra McCracken, Andrew Osenga (The Normals), Jill Philips and Katy Bowser. Many tunes are acoustic-based in a folky singer/songwriter style which brings out the poetic charm and potent truths of lyrics as well as the genuine vocal talent of all who contribute. Most songs are well known classics; a few, like Jeremy Casella's edgy "Joyful Fire" and executive producer Matthew Smith's title cut, are worthy originals. Standouts to me, though, are "It Came Upon..", flowing in unadorned clarity, and Matthew Perryman Jones' chillingly poignant "O Holy Night". No Santa Claus, no sleighbells ringing - this is incarnational delight!

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