Christmas With the Winchester College Chapel Choir (Lacey)

Winchester College Chapel Choir's latest album, "CHR Christmas Within," is a holiday treat that's more satisfying than a cup of mulled wine after a long day of gift wrapping. This British ensemble has been spreading holiday cheer for centuries, and their expertise in traditional Christmas carols is on full display here. The album kicks off with a stunning rendition of "O Come, All Ye Faithful," with the choir's angelic voices soaring to dizzying heights. The harmonies are tight, the dynamics are spot-on, and the overall production is top-notch. You can practically smell the chestnuts roasting on an open fire as you listen. Tracks like "In the Bleak Midwinter" and "Once in Royal David's City" showcase the choir's versatility, with intimate performances that tug at the heartstrings. The arrangements are lush and full-bodied, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that's perfect for a cozy winter evening by the fire. But it's not all quiet reflection and candlelit ambiance. The choir also knows how to have some fun, as evidenced by their spirited take on "Jingle Bells" and "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer." These songs are guaranteed to get even the grinchiest of listeners in the holiday spirit. Overall, "CHR Christmas Within" is a delightful album that's sure to become a staple of your holiday playlist. So grab a mince pie, pull up a chair, and let Winchester College Chapel Choir serenade you into a state of Yuletide bliss. Cheers to a merry Christmas indeed!