'Tis The Season To Be Gotee

Independent Christian label, Gotee Records serves up a Christmas compilation sure to get Christian rock fans in the mood for the season. ‘Tis The Season To Be Gotee features Christmas favorites and even a few originals from five artists on Gotee’s roster. Actually, R&B/soul singer Ayiesha Woods is no longer on Gotee’s roster, but she provides two standout tracks on the record. Woods puts a big band spin on “Jingle Bells,” and her rendition of “Merry Christmas Baby” takes on a similar old school flair. Newcomers Abandon Kansas only make a short appearance on the album with their rockin’ version of “O Come All Ye Faithful.” All of the three House of Heroes songs were taken from the band’s Christmas EP released last year. While the covers are stellar tracks, it’s slightly disappointing that these are just rehashed songs.

Chick rocker Stephanie Smith shows her stuff on “Jingle Bell Rock” but tones it down for a mellower cover of labelmate Relient K’s “I Celebrate Day.” Speaking of Relient K, they make several appearances on the album. While the acclaimed punk/alt. rock outfit could have pulled a few tunes from their own full-length Christmas record, they chose to offer a few new tracks. One of the most intriguing of these is “O Holy Night.” Instead of performing this track with showy vocals (like most who cover it), Relient K simplifies it, putting the focus on the song’s powerful lyrics.

'Tis The Season To Be Gotee is the perfect collection to rock at a Christmas party or even for putting up the Christmas tree.