The Smallbone Family has contributed much to the Christian music industry. While Joel and Luke Smallbone have earned their household name status as for King & Country, big sister Rebecca St. James earned her stripes as a Christian music darling of the 1990s. In 1997, at the peak of her popularity, Rebecca released her holiday album, Christmas. To celebrate its 25th anniversary, we look back at this underrated yuletide offering.
Under The Radar
I've talked to some big Rebecca St. James fans who weren't even aware that the album existed. Titled simply, Christmas, and with a low-key cover, the album lacked a proper radio single. Without a notable hit, how could listeners appreciate this hidden gem?
Released at the height of Rebecca's popularity, the album is sandwiched between two iconic albums, God and Pray. Sonically, the album bears these hallmarks. With a raw and gritty delivery, this isn't a Christmas album overflowing with sleigh bells and sugar plums. The acoustic guitar-rock sound popular in the late '90s drives many of the songs.
Rebecca's God album helped define her signature sound, and Christmas bears that influence. While the album has some orchestral influence, it never becomes prominent enough to make it feel too polished. Yet, all of this makes the collection worth hearing. There are many albums for the Christmas season so sweet you can get a sugar high if you listen to too much. Those who appreciate Rebecca's '90s unique style will like her rustic approach to the Christmas classics.
Notable Cuts
Rebecca gives many classic Christmas carols her unique touch. "O Holy Night" is given a lively spin while popular cuts like "What Child Is This" and "O Come All Ye Faithful" are given a nice burst of energy.
Rebecca makes this reviewer happy and covers a few songs somewhat lesser known. A cover of '80s Christian artist David Meece's "One Small Child" is an album highlight. The beautiful hymn appears in many hymnals but still hasn't been recorded by many A-list artists. Rebecca gives the song a dynamic reinvention. Low-key verses explode into a fast-rocking chorus that feels a bit jarring at first listen. Yet, the melodic strength of the delivery still makes the song stand out as an album highlight.
"Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring" is another notable cut. While I'm sure many listeners are familiar with the iconic melody, the song's lyrics are less well-known. Hearing Rebecca sing the song we know more about by its melody helps make the song more special.
An Original Carol
"A Cradle Prayer," the only original song, closes the album. With a lullaby-like melody, the song works as both a lullaby for baby Jesus and an innocent prayer to the newborn savior. The song's soft melody coupled with gentle music is an interesting contrast to the guitar-driven grit of some of the album's other tracks. It's worth a listen.
While this might not be the most notable Christmas release in Christian music history, fans who love Rebecca's music or the era's grunge-tinged rock might find some yuletide nuggets to love here. Those who long for Christmas music that isn't so polished might come away satisfied. To celebrate 25 years of this album, listen--or relisten--to a Christmas goodie you might have missed before.
J.J. Francesco is a longtime contributor to the NRT Staff. He's published the novel 'Because of Austin' and regularly seeks new ways to engage faith, life, and community. His new Christmas novel, 'When Miracles Can Dream,' is out NOW!
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