In May, 2012 Lara Landon released her sophomore album Overcome, one of my top ten albums of the year - http://www.newreleasetuesday.com/article.php?article_id=991. Naturally I was excited when I learned that she was closing out the year with a six song Christmas EP, released on December 4^th. The album opens with an original song “The Virgin Mary” which includes Lara’s signature emotive vocal style. The song is a transparent, vulnerable and moving ballad. Throughout the song Lara acknowledges the true wonder of Christ’s incarnation as she proclaims the lyrics—“Glory be to the Newborn King / Some call Him Savior / I think I’ll call Him Jesus.” The album is loaded with that type of profound response to this most blessed season.

Lara continues with a Middle Eastern musical rendition of "Little Drummer Boy" inspired by her background and the chance she had to be in Bethlehem on Christmas Eve in 2009. “Let It Fall” and “Where’s the line to see Jesus” are wonderful songs about seizing those precious moments that God gives us to feel His presence and appreciate His gift of peace and the beauty of His Creation. "Mary's Song" is a song that Lara wrote from Mary's perspective telling of how she felt from the moment she was holding Jesus when he was born to when she was holding Him as He was taken from the cross. As Mary responded to God’s plan for her life, these songs compel me to also reflect on how I’m answering God’s call.

CLOSING THOUGHTS

Lara Landon’s Christmas EP showcases an eclectic yet cohesive pallet of lush arrangements and melodic, piano-driven pop, venturing into the folk realm but ultimately more reminiscent of fellow female innovators Adele, Plumb and Ellie Goulding. It is evident Landon was not afraid to explore new stylistic elements by incorporating Hebrew lyrics, Middle Eastern percussion and Spanish guitar. Lara’s remarkable singing voice and her interesting music and lyrics are truly captivating. Listening to the music of Lara Landon is a transforming experience. Put any of her recordings on your player and you’re immediately hooked by her soothing and compelling voice. Follow the lyrics, and you become immersed in the spirituality and honesty of a seeker who helps us discover the God who walks with us in our daily lives. For sure, this is a Christmas album that you don’t want to miss. This album blesses and soothes my soul and is a beautiful offering of praise to our King.