Album Notes

Seems the spirit of the holidays comes in threes. Think Wise Men and Champion Sisters and my point is made. By the way, it’s a good thing the Wise Men didn’t run into these sisters on the way to Bethlehem, becoming all star-crossed and confused, spilling frankincense, losing their myrrh. In their own way, what Brenda, Sandra, and Molly bring to the Christmas season are essential gifts: artful surprise, brave tenderness, and a shimmering joy. These are simply as necessary as cranberry sauce, of course, and, of the many delights of this recording, they ring through in three-part harmony. Together with world-class arranger, Paul English, the Champion Sisters have recast the holiday canon and made it new. Yet, they have also found the same spirit that has animated Christmas through generations of snowy windowpanes, homecoming hugs, and carolers at the door. Here, then, are three lovely voices bearing gifts; three responses to the story of Love’s arrival in this world; and thr