Gather music review: Enya's "And...

I was selected to review Enya's "And Winter Came... by Gather and am super pleased I was given the opportunity. I have only listened to the CD a total of 4 times straight through and now all the songs are my favorites since it is the holidays and all.

Here is a brief overview of each track:

Track 1: A Soothing instrumental and vocal piece with no recognizable words. The sounds and the musical key are very typical of holiday tunes and provide a wonderfully soothing and relaxing mood with a hint of excitement.
Track 2: Is about the angels traveling to the new born king. Like most Enya pieces it is a relaxing and calming song with wonderful melody and blend with a lovely key change leading to the soft and beautifully executed ending.
Track 3: Again sounds like many well known Enya songs with an upbeat bright chorus that tells a story of excitement and wonder with a touch of Irish chanting and a great holiday sound. This is a great sing along tune that is great for kids!
Track 4: This is soothing darker take on a classic holiday carol; O Come, O come, Emmanuel. It is sung in English in the beginning and then in Latin through the chorus and end as true to the songs original origin from the 12 century. Great for any traditional carol lover!
Track 5: A song titled "Trains and Winter Rains" with a strong Irish sound. Lyrics describe everyone on the move with the hustle and bustle of holiday chaos and away from home for the holiday. This is another catchy tune from the album
Track 6: A soothing piece that speaks of dreams, sleep and rest. It is comforting and emotional with a hint of sadness until the key change. After the key change the music brightens up and is happier, lyrics "dreams are more precious than gold" end the song leaving you feeling relaxed and at peace. Ready for sleep.
Track 7: Is about life and love. It is a song of remembrance and reflection upon happy days of love and wonder. This is a cheerfully reflective piece and is not overly sad or dark. Makes you smile and remember the good in your past.
Track 8: A cheerful, catchy tune about a lone toy solider with dreams and purpose for Christmas day. I especially love the bells in the chorus at the end of the tune. Has a very distinct holiday sound. Another tune kids will love.
Track 9: A soft and slow song speaking of two who are lost in love, in each other and in the moment. Very touching and heartwarming.
Track 10: A deep song about how how tears and sadness can be wiped away by Christmas day. Each day is new and full of hope, especially Christmas Day. Even for those remembering the spirit of Christmas past.
Track 11: Another upbeat catchy tune about how time flies and the importance of letting the past go and living in the moment. Has a catchy modern guitar section that adds to the toe tapping aspects of the tune. This is one you can really sing along to.
Track 12: A captivating rendition of "silent night" in Irish complete with the Irish chorale sound. I love that you can hear all the vocal parts so clearly the blend and dynamics are superb. This is also a song for those fans of old time carols, it is unique easy to listen to.

Every track has that unique Enya (Irish) sound, what is better is that hints of sleigh bells and wintertime are also mixed in to create a truly unique and enjoyable holiday CD for anyone.

Even if you have never owned an Enya CD I would encourage you to give this one a try because of it's versatile and enjoyable sound. You'll find traditional carols, new and unique songs, messages of hope and love, comfort and much, much more!

I am very pleased with this album!