Christmas time without some solid Christmas tunes simply would not be Christmas time. The timeless carols and hymns of joy blare from every car stereo, mall loudspeaker and student laptop around this time of year. Christmas songs are so familiar that it’s very rare any artist churns out something new.

But Phil Wickham is one of those artists who has managed to create something of a unique collection in his latest, “Songs for Christmas.” Unimaginative title notwithstanding, the songs sound fresh and vital in a day when the Coldplays and The Killers of the world are releasing half-hearted novelty holiday singles.

Wickham is fast becoming a titan in the contemporary Christian market, but not for creating the boring, rote and stale ideas that unfortunately dominate this particular niche. He brings his lush, indie pop sensibility to these Christmas classics and creates something altogether wonderful.

Refreshing takes on Christmas classics

“The First Noel” is rife with chewy harmonies and lightly brushed drum arrangements. What is normally a somber, inspirational song becomes a tap-your-foot celebration, and it is truly refreshing to hear.

This is followed by a folksy version of “Silent Night.” Wickham’s famously prodigious vocals are hushed here, with the singer opting for a more falsetto approach so as not to drown out the message of the song. While the song would have possibly benefited from Wickham belting out at least one verse, he deserves props for his restraint.

The haunting “O Come, O Come Emanuel” follows, beginning with an almost a cappella verse before swelling into a dreamscape chorus. The song is once more tastefully arranged, though a little repetitive towards the end.

“O Holy Night” is more traditionally arranged, with what sounds like a harp providing the only instrumental back-up for another vocally superb track.
Wickham sings solid lead vocals, and his harmony arrangements continue to be superb, driving the song towards near-heavenly heights.

Album features several original songs

Before the listener writes the record off as another record of Christmas covers, Wickham tosses in one of his originals, “Christmas Time.” The Beach House-esque dream pop tendencies continue here, with Wickham implementing his trademark “ooo’s” into an arrangement that is safe and solid. It won’t be a Christmas immortal or anything like that, but it is bound to put a smile on listeners’ faces with its uplifting message.

Then, it’s back to the classics. “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” is supported only by a subdued electric guitar part, reminiscent of Jeff Buckley’s rendition of “Hallelujah.” Wickham’s vocals shine here once again, though it does sound like he holds back more than normal.

Unusual rendition of Little Drummer Boy impresses

“The Little Drummer Boy” features, understandably, a solid drum beat that drives the song in an atypical manner. What is normally a dreary holiday song is actually made enjoyable here — not an easy task.

The atmospheric background vocals serve to really lighten the mood of the song, and many listeners will appreciate the effort.

Another Wickham original, “Evermore,” follows. It sounds like a song that would fit in nicely on one of his non-Christmas albums. The collection is then wrapped up with a piano-driven rendition of “O Come All Ye Faithful,” that is given a more traditional piano treatment.

Though Wickham created his own versions of classic Christmas songs, the spirit behind them remains. If you are looking to get into the holiday mood, look to pick up a copy of this record.