Acclaimed worship leader, songwriter and talented guitarist Lincoln Brewster releases his first (and highly anticipated) Christmas album, Joy To The World. Featuring seasonal favorites as well as three original tracks, Brewster's unmistakable worship with a rock flare permeates each song. 

 

"Sometimes Christmas music can slip by as festive, and what we're singing about can be marginalized," Brewster said, "so with Joy To The World, I wanted to try-as often as possible-to make the music sound like what the lyrics were saying." 

 

Starting off the album with title track, "Joy To The World," Brewster stays true to the original melody and energy of the well-known Christmas anthem, but incorporates his own twist musically. With Brewster's unmistakable guitar solos, the occasional orchestral strings, and a tone of pure celebration, this first track is a perfect introduction to what's to come. 

 

"Little Drummer Boy" is the first debut single off the album and features KJ-52's rapping talents. With an evident rock/pop vibe and drums taking a prominent spot, this track is much more upbeat than the original. While this particular track doesn't stick as close to the carol we're all used to singing, it definitely adds more of a hopefulness, which in essence is what the lyrics are actually promoting.

 

Written by Brewster and songwriting heavyweights Paul Baloche and Jason Ingram, "Shout For Joy" quietly begins with strings, ringing bells, and a choir. The energy quickly builds with drums and electric guitars as Brewster sings the chorus, "Shout for joy / For the Son of God / Is the saving One / He's the saving One / Shout for joy / See what love has done / He has come for us / He's the saving One." This could easily be sung during a worship or special service as congregations prepare their hearts for celebrating the Christmas season. After only listening to this track a couple times, I find myself already singing along.

 

The only instrumental track on the album, "Miraculum," incorporates several well-known Christmas favorites into a 6:20 minute arrangement. Very reminiscent of something you might hear from Mannheim Steamroller or Tran Siberian Orchestra, this track is one of my favorites on the entire record.

 

Lincoln Brewster's debut Christmas album, Joy To The World, is a great addition to the variety of seasonal projects already out there. Whether you're a fan of classic Christmas carols or enjoy hearing someone else's interpretation of your favorites, the message of each song remains front and center. With a celebratory tone and Brewster's unmistakable rock flare, this album is a must-have for anyone looking for a worthy addition to their Christmas collection.