A little TGIF jubilation quickly gives away to the serene and contemplative in this edition of the Countdown:
#80 - We Need a Little Christmas (Johnny Mathis): Your decorations are probably already out, but you can disregard the fruitcake and appreciate this energetic romp.
#79 - Gloria (Boston Pops Orchestra): The opening track from one of my most-played Christmas CDs, this rousing fanfare earns a nostalgic slot on the list.
#78 - Good King Wenceslas (Mannheim Steamroller): Not that the lyrics rooted in medieval myth lack meaning, but the once-innovative instrumental version prevails.
#77 - What Shall We Sing for the Child? (Turtle Creek Chorale): A self-fulfilling, tender devotional cantata piece - “Gently a song will make sweeter the air.”
#76 - Michigan Christmas (Brian d’Arcy James): A healthful mix of nostalgic warmth, state pride, and the nagging curiosity - What exactly ARE Saginaw trees?
#75 - Draw Tua Bethlehem (Charlotte Church): A wistful tribute to a once-prodigious Welsh talent serenading us with “Far Over Bethlehem” in her native tongue.
#74 - Gentle Mary (The Hamilton Family): Highly singable selection that belongs in every church’s repertoire - “He is still the undefiled, but no more a stranger.”
#73 - Infant Holy, Infant Lowly (Univ. of Utah Chamber Choir): Translation of a traditional Polish carol, it well captures both the Savior’s humility and holiness.
#72 - Somewhere in My Memory (Texas Children’s Choir): Not to be sung by adult voices, this selection rises up the chart on the weight of its movie affiliation.
#71 - Celtic Advent Carol (AFLBS Proclaim Choir): A melodic magnet in a liturgical direction - “Light the candle, Jesus is coming…”
For those who want to see the full Countdown, check it out on YouTube or Spotify. Come back tomorrow for 10 more selections…
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