I recently saw two of my favorite Christmas music artists in concert. I had to get Hamilton Theater tickets right after the event because the event right after that was purported to be as riveting as the one before it. I don’t think anyone is more prolific in putting out Christmas albums than Amy Grant and Michael W Smith. I have seen them both individually and together in concert many times. But this time, I was in for a surprise. And that surprise was Jordan Smith.
I watch very little reality television. So, I wasn’t familiar with Jordan Smith (of The Voice fame) when he came out to share the stage with Michael and Amy. All I can say is…wow! This guy can sing! And not only can he sing, but he is an entertainer who more than held his own on stage with these seasoned performers. He had great stage presence and rapport with both the audience and his fellow singers and even tweaked Michael a little bit which made the audience laugh.
Needless to say, after hearing him perform several songs that evening I knew I had to check out his Christmas album.
Now, I am somewhat of a Christmas music aficionado who has lost count of how many holiday albums I own. This is arguably the largest genre of my music collection. So, when I say that Jordan’s album is a must buy, just trust me.
The album is a collection of both classic and more modern holiday songs. The clean, somewhat stripped down style of music allows the focus to remain on his clear, yet powerful voice without any other distractions.
One of my favorite songs on the album is the jazzed up, humorous Mr. Grinch which I have never enjoyed before. But Jordan’s version is so much fun I can’t help myself. This is the song he performed at the concert which prodded me into checking out this album in the first place.
The other standout to me is It Came Upon a Midnight Clear. This is a song which doesn’t seem to be covered as often as others, and I relished it. But there isn’t a mediocre song in this collection.
This is a great album if you are looking for simple, unencumbered Christmas music and also a great one to have playing in the background. I highly recommend it.
You can currently purchase this album at itunes for $7.99.
