I love Christmas music. Many people get tired of it. I pull it out during the middle of summer. I especially love good Christmas music. Sojourn Music’s recording “Adevnt Songs” isn’t just good, it’s remarkable.
Filled with Anticipation
One way Sojourn described this recording is that “The songs have both a dark sense of anticipation and glimpses of light dawning in the face of the Christ child.” From the very beginning of the first track, a modern take on “Joy to the World,” we feel a sense of anticipation. The solo piano makes you wonder what’s next, and draws the listener in immediately.
Fresh Takes on Classics and Outstanding Original Music
“Glory Be” is the first original track on the recording that is only the beginning of an outstanding collection. This song begins to show off Sojourn’s fantastic ability to create musical hooks. The drums and bass eventually match up to create a rhythmic hook that you can’t help noticing and enjoying each time you take a listen.
“God is With Us” and the later “O Come All Ye Faithful” remind me of some things that Jars of Clay have done. You don’t usually expect a folk/bluegrass style on a Christmas album, but for “God is With Us” it’s absolutely perfect.
The fresh arrangement of “O Come, O Come Emmanuel” already has me pushing the “previous” button numerous times. And the aggressive yet perfect update of “What Child is This” as well as the haunting “Amen, Amen” seem reminiscent of Sixpence None the Richer.
The recording ends with the wonderful anthem, “Hosanna in the Highest.”
Some Drawbacks
While I love this set of songs, most of them are probably not going to be suitable for congregational singing, and if you’re a fan of more traditional Christmas music this isn’t for you. If however, you have the likes of Jars of Clay, Bebo Norman, Sixpence None the Richer and more alternative styles on your mp3 player – you’ll love it.
Where to Get It
Best of all, this recording is available for a “pay what you want” price or for free by telling others about it on NoiseTrade. I would embed the NoiseTrade widget for you to get the recording right here but I’m having some technical difficulties with it. If you’re still wanting hard copies of music for your library, you can purchase the CD.
