On the whole, albums centred on Christmas are cheesy and safe affairs, usually disposed of or put in storage for the following year. Tinsel And Lights is a rare exception to that rule.
Tracey Thorn, best known for her work with Everything But The Girl has released a quality collection for the holiday season.
The English singer is one of a select few female vocalists, joined by the likes of such as Hope Sandoval and Lou Rhodes, that immediately commands your undivided attention as a listener.
Thorn has a direct, personal quality in her voice that almost makes you feel as though she is singing to you and you alone.
What is so admirable (and indeed unusual) about Tinsel And Lights is the way it depicts the darker side of the holiday season.
What stops this album from being maudlin or depressing is the sense of hope on both a lyrical and musical level. The gorgeous “Maybe This Christmas” is an excellent example of overcoming negativity in one’s life.
A mix of covers and originals, the affecting title track, a take on “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas” is utterly stunning and heart-warming, every bit the equal of the version by Chrissie Hynde of The Pretenders.
In fact, there isn’t a dud track on this considered and haunting release.
This is a Christmas album that one should be proud to have in their collection and playing on the 25th of December, while everyone’s unwrapping presents and together with the ones that are worth a damn to them.
