MUSICREVIEWS BOLD VISION #1
PLANETSHAKERS it’s christmas live
CAROLINE COBB a seed, a sunrise: advent to christmas songs
Acclaimed praise and worship band Planetshakers has released It’s Christmas Live (November 27, 2020), recorded before a crowd at Planetshakers Church before the pandemic quarantine. The 11-track album is a live version of Planetshakers’ first full-length studio Christmas album (2019).
Songwriter/vocalist Caroline Cobb offers something different from the traditional for Christmas. Her third album, A Seed, a Sunrise: Advent to Christmas Songs released November 20, 2020.
It’s Christmas Live, which features a 59-voice choir, puts a Planetshakers praise and worship spin on several Christmas classics as well as a few originals. It’s reminiscent of their high-energy worship sets, but with a jubilant Christmas celebration at the forefront. “Christmas is a great time to remember what Jesus has done,” says Russell Evans, Planetshakers founder and lead pastor. “Despite what we may see around us or how we may feel, Christmas is a time where we can refocus our attention firmly on Jesus. God became man to save humanity.” As you listen to this album, you’ll likely agree with Josh Hunt, session leader: “These songs are full of life and joy.”
18. leadinghearts.com
With its soft, soulful lilt, Caroline’s voice stirs the senses as she lyrically unveils the hope in anticipation of Christmas, the celebration of the promised Messiah fulfilled in Jesus. Listening to each poetically crafted original track may bring to mind Isaiah 9 that foretells the “great light” soon to dawn upon the people who have “walked in darkness.” Her lyrics honestly depict the grey pre-Jesus reality. Still, the tone turns and lifts with the joyous story of His arrival. Caroline sees the hope found in advent and Christmas as needed amid the current state of this world in 2020. “My prayer is that these songs will be a needed balm for us, giving voice to both the desperate cry ‘how long, O Lord?’ and to the unwavering hope we have in Jesus.” heather van allen | music reviewer
