Released: December 2
Andrea Corr brings warmth to the winter months with her new album of holiday standards.
Clocking in at 11 tracks, the latest long-player from The Corrs vocalist was born of a visit to Dublin’s Our Lady’s Hospice and Care Services in Harold’s Cross, where she sang a selection of her personal Christmas favourites.
The experience inspired her to record and release her ‘Christmas Songs’ EP in 2020 and, two years later, she’s expanded the set into a complete collection, perfect for cosy Christmas nights.
“Every record has a personality.” explains Andrea. “I see this one as a courageous little fighter, incubated by Covid. I hope you enjoy listening to it as much as I have enjoyed making it”
Opening with a joyous take on It’s Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas, the album features three covers from her EP – Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas, In The Bleak Midwinter and O Holy Night – along with her original, self-penned track Begin Again. It’s a moving tribute to ‘the ones that we’ve lost’ and a mantra for letting go of the past and moving forward into the New Year.
Also included on the record is Andrea’s collaboration with Ronnie Wood on Blue Christmas; an upbeat number that sees them harmonise throughout, with a playful spoken-word middle section. He also features on Curoo Curoo (Carol Of The Birds), while Andrea’s vocals shine on a jazz-influenced Let It Snow and soothing O Little Town Of Bethlehem.
Largely a mid tempo affair, ‘The Christmas Album’ won’t be making many party appearances over the season, and we can’t help but wish for a few more sparkly moments throughout. But when it comes to soundtracks for the long, dark nights ahead, Andrea has a fine remedy to see us through the other side.
‘The Christmas Album’ is available now.
