What is that soothing sound? It's certainly a keyboard, but it's something more. That ethereal, light-hearted noise--almost like a gentle waterfall on an early summer day--falls so sweetly from Christie Forester's flowing fingers. On Heartsong for Christmas, the artist creates mesmerizing soundscapes, taking well-loved holiday melodies and expanding them into lush, bubbling creations.
This easy-listening album contains 16 tracks and extends well over an hour. The songs are sacred favorites, and the relaxing treatment creates a background environment perfect for any holiday event--or for that quiet evening wrapping gifts on a cold winter's night.
Forester's arrangements are delicate and delightful; the melodies meander down lyrical paths, but the essence of each well-known carol never disappears. Her keyboard seems to be producing the percussive sounds of a vibraphone or similar instrument; the results shimmer with warmth. This release is consistently solid, and my favorite tracks are "Silent Night" and "Silent Night Reprise," which bookend the album and combine for over ten minutes of intensely lovely music.
Heartsong for Christmas is a calming influence for anyone run ragged by holiday stress and life's difficult moments. Let Christie Forester spend a special hour with you, and you will come away refreshed!
--Carol Swanson
(Reviewed in 2005)
Carol Swanson - Christmas Review (Oct 15, 2005)