Search - Gregorian Chant, Antonio Vivaldi, Thomas Ravenscroft :: Jubilation, Vol. 5: Joy of the World

A rich and varied testament to the magical ways that Christmas can marry different cultures and find musical splendor, Joy to the World is a soulfully resplendent album of beautiful voices and intriguing instruments, dazzling arrangements, and fine production values. Mixing African American gospel and jazz, Caribbean calypso, and Eurocentric standards such as "Stille Nacht" ("Silent Night"), Handel's "Amen," and Vivaldi's "Gloria in Excelsis Deo," and delivering it through the amazing singing and playing of the Montreal Jubilation Choir, this collection is a singular recipe for genuine joy to the world. Founder and director Trevor W. Payne works many wonders here in what may be one of the most successful Christmas records ever to bridge nations, tongues, races, and creeds. JC would readily approve. --Martin Keller