Michael W. Smith has been on the Christian music scene for well over 20 years now, and way back in 1989 he recorded his first seasonal album, simply entitled Christmas. You may occasionally hear a song or two off this album if you listen to a Christian music station in your area, but sadly this stellar album is usually replaced by more recent holiday contributions.

Michael either wrote or arranged every song on the album and it doesn't disappoint as far as a grand MWS production is concerned. There are amazing vocal choir pieces, glorious instrumental songs, and old favorites arranged in new ways. Amy Grant and Smitty's wife Debbie even contribute to the songs written for this album. The most hauntingly beautiful selection may very well be "All is Well," which features soloist Nathan Wadley and the American Boyschoir School ("All is well, angels and men rejoice, for tonight darkness fell into the dawn of love's light"). The album ends with a beautiful instrumental rendition of "Silent Night." This is Michael W. Smith at his very finest - at the piano and glorifying our Lord Almighty.

This is not just a "holiday" album - there is no "Frosty the Snowman" or "Jingle Bell Rock" here (not that there's anything wrong with that!). This is a gorgeous, Christ-centered Christmas album, and it's a perfect and timely reminder that Jesus is the reason for the season.

- Review date: 1/23/06, written by Karen M.