It is obviously a Christmas album, but it is that season so something a little different seamed the best approach. Todays recommendation from the unsolicited music recommendation service is, The Dawn of Grace by Sixpence None the Richer.

Rather than remark on every track I will confess this album as a guilty pleasure and pick out my highlights.

The opening track Angels We Have Heard On High makes it clear that this is a Sixpence None the Richer with the guitar sounds and vocal backing parts.

The Last Christmas Without You is a well craft track with stunning song writing, narrative content and some haunting instrumental parts throughout. In fact I think this is possibly my favorite track on the album.

The exposed guitar opening and processed drum sounds give O Come, O Come Emmanuel a haunting aspect fitting of such a song.

The album continues with a pleasant collection of Christmas songs presented in slightly unusual arrangements. The duet within the later verses of Silent Night is stunning while the abrasiveness of the Carol of the Bells is a welcome relief. Christmas Island is very self aware and supported with a delightful mix. The recording of River features a stunning vocal performance over a well crafted instrumental arrangement.

The concluding track Some Children See Him features an initially exposed vocal performance joined by some delicate string parts.

If you use Apple Music you can listen to The Dawn of Grace.