Steve Green

Item: The First Noel
Author: David Luck

The First Noel

(1996)

Reviewed by David Luck

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Label Sparrow RecordsThe LighthouseDecember 1996

adult contemporary ccm worship

On The First Noel, the richness of Steve Green's vocals is complemented with orchestra and choral support, bringing forth a sound that is full and beautiful, making this project a timeless keepsake. The album blends a mix of traditional hymns with some very new and wonderful arrangements, and introduces new, brilliant tracks that may become standards themselves in the years to come.

Among the traditional songs are the title track ("The First Noel"), "What Child Is This" and "Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus." Green also has two new arrangements, featuring medleys of familiar carols-"Midnight Clear Medley" ("It Came Upon The Midnight Clear," "Angels We Have Heard On High," and "O Come, All Ye Faithful"), which closes with a crescendo of voice and orchestra that demonstrates the power and vocal range for which Green is well known, and the closing track, "Away In A Manger Medley" ("Away In A Manger" and "O Little Town Of Bethlehem").

New titles released with this project include "Jesu, Light of Lights," "Holy Child," and "Good News." Setting a contemplative and thought-provoking mood, "Good News" brings the life of Christ alive in a new and unique way:

Bow your head and speak not a word Let the silence take you far from here The spirit of a child dry every tear And may your doubts thus disappear Bow your head and on bended knee Hear the story once again The child grew up to wear a cross The child grew up to pledge a life

This set of songs would be more than enough for most artists, but Green goes the extra mile with "All My Heart Rejoices." The light and airy voices of a very talented children's choir join Green in a new release of these traditional lyrics with music he has written.

The First Noel is a resounding success. My family's collection of Christmas music is extensive and varied, but I can already tell that it's going to be very difficult to pry this project from the hands of my wife. Looks like I'll have to sit at home with her this holiday season so we can enjoy this new-found treasure together. What a life!