In a fair world, this Christmas album would be on a major label, getting tons of promotion. This is the Christmas record for all of those people who have been worn out by the various hip-hop, dance, rock, and pop Christmas records, and long for something more reverent.
David Edwards is no stranger to the world of music. He released three albums in the early 80s, and has been associated with the likes of Randy Stonehill. Where his earlier albums had more of a new-wave edge to them, Edwards has moved on with the times.
This album sounds like a Christmas album. The arrangements are thoughtful, pretty without being overwrought, and simple without being simplistic. There is enough modernness to the music to make it definitely a modern album, but without letting the music overwhelm the message of Christmas. Even the newer songs end up being part of the harmonious whole, rather than something out of line with the classic carols.
In that way, there's nothing terribly remarkable about this album. Edwards' voice is pleasant, but not really distinctive. It fits the musical package well, in that way.
This disc is not one which screams out for special recognition as being something exciting, new and a complete departure from the past. But somehow I think that's exactly the point that Edwards is trying to make. The best Christmas music is timeless, and there's no point in tinkering with a good thing. For that reason alone I prefer this Christmas album to most I have heard in the last few years.
Other coverage for this album
The Phantom Tollbooth 2001Reviewed by Marie AsnerChristmas Carols Old and New has eleven Christmas songs, two that are contemporary, in an easy listening collection for relaxing time during the holidays. David Edwards has a Barry Manilow-easy listening voice that rarely changes during this holiday CD. His phrasing is complete without chopping up a musical thought, but the style is relaxed and laid-back. Edwards is best on songs such as "The…
