For years my Christmas favorite From Ballad to festive chorale - "Christmas Time" is what the soul desires everything. This album stands out for its successful combination of the 08/15-Trott Christmas albums out! Michael W. Smith dares everything - and hits the mark. Quiet ballads (The Happiest Christmas, Welcome to our World), moving instrumental interpretations (Hope of Israel, We Three Kings, O Christmas Tree) and simply magnificent choral arrangements (Christmastime, Child in the Manger) shaking hands. Even "Smitty" little daughter intones a song. Jungle Bells, the dusted Christmas Waltz and final Medley spray just as before (Christmas) joy. If it allows me to pick out a climax, then this is the re-recording of his classic "Emmanuel", hard to beat in a festive and joyous mood at the same time.
