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Christmas albums are like noses. Every artist has one, but they aren’t always aesthetically pleasing. Occasionally, in the midst of the morass of new and ubiquitous Christmas product, one discovers a gem. A sonic treat which is so distinguished and highly prized, that like familiar Christmas tree ornaments and Christmas Eve traditions, you eagerly anticipate its appearance during each holiday season. The First Christmas by the a cappella group Rescue clearly falls into that category.

Comparing Rescue to other popular a cappella specialists such as Glad, Take 6, Rockapella, and Acappella is fine for context but doesn’t adequately illustrate this band's captivating style. Combining traditional carols with a generous dash of original and neoclassic material, Jason Overstreet, Josh McKenney, Jason McKenney and Jason Pearce deliver a Christmas package that blesses and inspires.

The photograph on the jacket cover gives the impression of young men hosed down, scrubbed, and dressed by a fastidious mother. They define clean-cut. The cohesive, nuanced harmony and sophisticated arrangements reflect the same attention to detail. The First Christmas is the group's third effort and in the final analysis, may be viewed as their defining work. Traditional carols such as "Silent Night," "O Come All Ye Faithful," and "Oh, Holy Night" are balanced with a couple of original compositions and recent titles from other respected songwriters.

"Christmas To Remember" was penned by Amy Grant, Beverly Darnell, and Chris Eaton. Amy Grant has long been under appreciated as a songwriter. "Christmas To Remember," appearing on The First Christmas and Tennessee Christmas which she co-wrote with Gary Chapman, are two Amy Grant favorites which are laced with profound emotion. "Christmas To Remember" is the ideal number to open this collection, nurturing hope and joy which are carried through the entire album. When these men up-shift and launch into the chorus, you just want to shake your fist in the air with the same enthusiasm as a point guard that has just nailed a 30 foot turnaround jump shot. What a shot of adrenaline! 

"Setting our hope on a Savior tonight, knowing he came to make all things right and it’s going to be a Christmas to remember. The Son of God, hear the angels sing. Peace on earth is what He will bring and it's going to be a Christmas to remember."

These words aren’t as complex as they are moving, especially when paired with melody and harmony as sweet as that found in this tune and these voices.

"Mary did you Know" written by Buddy Greene and Mark Lowry, is another recent day Christmas song which has rocketed to popularity and become somewhat of a modern day classic in just under ten years. A stunning rendition of this tune is part of the package.

Jason Overstreet started the quartet in 1996 after writing, arranging, and performing several songs for his senior college recital. Professors urged him to pursue his obvious talent in a cappella music. Five years, three albums, and countless television, conference, festival and concert appearances later, these young men have developed a wonderful sound which promises to bless and entertain for years to come.

Curt McLey  12/16/2001