This brilliant first solo effort by gifted singer Theresa Donohoo is a splendid mix of traditional Christmas songs and newer material, all beautifully arranged and...

This brilliant first solo effort by gifted singer Theresa Donohoo is a splendid mix of traditional Christmas songs and newer material, all beautifully arranged and guaranteed to please a variety of musical tastes. Listeners will be captivated by haunting folk music generously laced with popular Celtic sounds, including the bodhran, whistle, and uillean pipes for a decidedly Irish flavor. New interpretations of several well-known carols—including a Gaelic version of "The First Noel" with its soft, lilting strains—are sure to charm the musical ear. A medieval flavor permeates the collection, and the beguiling "Carol of the Strangers" is destined to become a Christmas classic for church groups. Fresh arrangements of "I Saw Three Ships," "Tomorrow Shall Be My Dancing Day," and "Rise Up, Shepherd, and Follow" bring dramatic new dimensions to these enchanting strains. Ms. Donohoo lends a captivating new melody and treatment to Brian Wren's "Advent Herald."