You know “The Christmas Shoes.” You likely have somewhat strong feelings about the song. But did you also know that the band behind that song actually has several albums’ worth of Christmas recordings? The first of those was named after that oh-so-controversial holiday ballad. And while that iconic signature Christmas song is included in the release that bears its name, it’s far from what that album has to offer. So as The Christmas Shoes album turns 20 this year, lets look back at all the holiday goodies it has to offer.
“The Christmas Shoes”
Read our thoughts on the hit song itself in our recent retrospective on Christmas singles also celebrating an anniversary.
Festive Renditions
Given the band’s established sound and the somber nature of the title track, you might be surprised to find just how upbeat and peppy the record as a whole is. With cuts like “Rocking Around The Christmas Tree” and “You’re A Mean One, Mr. Grinch,” as well as reverent renditions of “Christmastime is Here” and “The First Noel,” these covers help make the album a solid listen all the way through. In fact, “The First Noel” was featured on the 2005 CBS sequel to The Christmas Shoes movie, The Christmas Blessing, in which the band also appeared as themselves.
“O Holy Night” proves to be a powerful and soaring rendition of the Christmas standard, with just enough bombast to carry the track, without becoming too much of a show-off piece.
Nostalgic Originals
Perhaps the best highlights of this album lie in the album’s originals. Aside from the iconic title track, several other originals populate the album. Capturing a similar emotional vibe, “Christmas Carol” tells the story of a dementia patient who comes alive when singing Christmas songs. A remake of the band’s own “Light Your World” offers yet another story song packed with sentiment.
The songs that deal directly with the birth of Christmas fare even better, carrying a distinct 1990s sound and infectious melodies. “Sing Noel” is so upbeat, that you won’t be able to help sing along with it’s call-and-response chorus.
Perhaps the most underrated original is “As The World Slept,” tucked away at the end of the album. Emotional and soothing, the song plays as a sort of mix between a lullaby and a contemporary ballad.
Nothing fuels nostalgia quite like Christmas. If you’re in the mood for a yuletide dose of it, give this album a listen for its 20th anniversary.
J.J. Francesco is a long-time contributor to the NRT Staff. He's published the novel 'Because of Austin' and regularly seeks new ways to engage faith, life, and community. He is currently working on releasing a brand new novel.
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