A Christmas Story

by

Point of Grace

Edit

So many of the great Christmas discs, the tried and true Bing's and Nat's were already old by the time I first heard them. This 1999 release may well be the first time I've heard a new Christmas disc that I anticipate playing 30 years from now. It is that good and that distinctive. I write that w/o even being a fan of this group prior to this release. They work in a genre I normally don't listen to, but maybe I should have been. The Medlies of Let it Snow and Sleigh Ride, as well as the coupling of Carol of the Bells with What Child is This are both master works. Santa Claus is Coming... and Jingle Bell Rock may well be the definative recordings of those songs. I collect Oh Holy Night's and put their effort in the all time top 5. Can't compare their Joy to the World to anyone elses b/c the arrangement and vocal work make the song their own. Lastly, the end track Not That Far From Bethleham is the perfect ending for any Holiday Disc in that it leaves the listener with something to ponder in the silence that follows.

An incredible display of artistic talent and insperation.

Point of Grace are awesome. Their music will inspire and lift you to new heights in your daily walk with Christ. Their music has a nice beat that you will find your toe tapping to, but you really need to listen to the words. I really hate to say anything negative about a group of Christian musicians that so effectively proclaim the love of God, but I just have to say that this cd really disappointed me. Point of Grace is in top form and their voices and the lyrics are once again inspirational and uplifting, but the background musicians are way too loud and overpowering. At times you really have to strain to hear the girls above soaring brass solos and deafening orchestral riffs. I love music. And I don't dislike classical or brass bands, and this cd could have been great, if only we could hear the singers. Not all of the songs are this way but enough that I felt I should give others a warning. If you are a true fan of Point of Grace as I, then you'll want this cd. But if this is your first cd by Point of Grace, PLEASE PLEASE don't buy this one. Try "Steady On" instead.