Search - Israel & New Breed :: Timeless Christmas

Diane R. from MIDDLE ISLAND, NY
Reviewed on 1/2/2010...

We have enjoyed israel's songs and looked forward to this CD. I loved it. He takes traditional Christmas songs and makes them his own with his style while singing with popular artists. My husband didn't like the CD because it was not traditional music.

Creative genius

Peace Brotha | Ohio, United States | 11/24/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"If there was ever any doubt that Israel Houghton is one of the brightest and most creative artists in music today, this should quell it. Not since Kirk Franklin's Christmas album have I heard a holiday set that is listenable all year long. Kirk's set is still great, and has stood the test of time, but A TIMELESS CHRISTMAS kicks it up a notch.



I am not someone who is a big fan of Christmas music (spiritual or otherwise), but the unique arrangements given to these classics provide such a freshness that even someone like me can get into these songs. From beginning to end all of the music flows, is uplifting, interesting to listen to. Israel and New Breed drive home the spiritual side of Christmas without delving into cheap sentiment. It's a well-balanced statement of faith that is perfect for sharing with believers and non-believers alike. After listening to this, some skeptics just may want to find out more about Who is known as "The Reason for the season."



As extraordinary as this set is, I have to mention something that sets it even further above many other noteworthy albums: special guests that actually add to the project rather than detract from it. So many times these guests can distract from or frankly ruin a project, especially when there are as many guests as on ATC. But each and every guest's appearance here contributes to this work in a positive way. Of particular note is Lalah Hathaway's performance: a brilliant singer, artist and interpreter at any rate, this is one of her finest performances ever.



One minor quibble: it's always good to hear artists include their own children on a project. Usually when they do it's no more than 30 seconds unless they are old enough to speak or truly carry a real tune that is beyond what some would call "precious." However, "Sonny Boy Christmas" features Israel's very young son carrying on for nearly two and a half minutes. The first time I heard it I honestly wondered when it would end. And I'm someone who loves children. How will this sound to the listener after the 10th spin?



But no matter. In my opinion, Israel and New Breed have turned out a Christmas set which really does live up to its title. Praise the Lord for a spiritual artist like Minister Houghton who is not afraid to be creative in His Name."

Israel @ Christmas - Most Appropriate

J. Walcott | London, UK | 10/03/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I've been an Israel fan since Jan' 2004 when I accidentally came across New Season at a New Year's Gathering at a Friend's house. Since then, I have not been able to put aside anything musically from Israel. He and the new breed band consistently get the most rotations on my mp3 player, the whole year through, year on year, and it's always a special feeling when you know a new Israel cd is coming, it comes out and you get it in your hand.



So here it is!!! I dare say one of the most beautifully crafted musical escapades you could ever want to go on. From the first note of the 'Nutcracker Overture' you could tell this disc was going to be something special. Israel and New Breed fans and Gospel fans all over the world, pick it up, pick it up, pick it up!!!! The album is simply brilliant, put together like a live concert, with a mix of familiar and new Christmas songs but in their true Israel musicianship style. The other thing i noted was how some of the songs were written so that they could be played all year through, for the message, and not only for Christmas time. The guest artists are simply quality.



Mr. Luther "Mano" Hanes and Israel Houghton Well Done!!! I only wished Aaron Lindsey was on the project but will wait for their next one together.



My pics of the disc - Go Tell It, Least of These and Nocturnal Mist but it's an experience and they all fit perfectly together.



Merry Christmas All!!



God Bless."