Get the new FREE JFH MP3 compilation -- Vol. 13!
Get the new FREE JFH MP3 compilation -- Vol. 13!

JFH Music Review


Kings Kaleidoscope, Joy Has Dawned EP
CLICK COVER TO ENLARGE

Kings Kaleidoscope
Joy Has Dawned EP



Album length: 5 tracks: 20 minutes, 33 seconds
Street Date: November 27, 2012


The holiday season is now in full swing; Thanksgiving has come and gone and children have begun their countdown to Christmas day. Accompanying the shopping frenzy, that so dreadfully consumes the masses, nearly every retail store from Atlanta to Seattle is playing the whimsical music of Christmas. In recent years it is common practice for many a CCM artist/group to produce such a holiday offering. Some are life changing and great additions to holiday playlists, while others sound like they are done just because that's what a good Christian artist should do. This year, relative newcomers to the music scene, Kings Kaleidoscope, have decided to join in the festive offerings of the season with their Christmas EP, Joy Has Dawned. But on which side of the Christmas music spectrum do they reside? Is it life changing or forgetful? The final opinion will rest in the hands of the listener, but here are some thoughts from a fellow Christmas music connoisseur.

The album opens with Advent carol, "Come Thou Long Expected Jesus." With such a unique song for a contemporary Christmas album, it might seem out of place for some listeners but at it's core it is a biblically solid Christmas tune that truly points to Jesus. It's a great way to lay the foundation for what Christmas is really about; it's all about Jesus. Plus, the creative arrangement has an excellent wintry flair with bells and a beautiful brass section. "O Holy Night" follows with one of the most tasteful interpretations of the Christmas classic. The haunting piano and flowing background vocals give the track such musical depth that it will make Christmas music purists overwhelmed with happiness.

Introducing a more eclectic groove to the album is the title track, "Joy Has Dawned." King's respect of the melody, whilst giving the song their own twist, is executed impeccably. Percussionists are sure to get a kick out of the arrangement, as the drums are working at full capacity throughout the song. Returning to a more recognizable song, "O Come All Ye Faithful," is approached with a more organic and raw approach. A lovely less-polished choir interludes in and out of the song. Worship leaders take note: this rendition would be great to hear during the holiday gatherings because of its creative and accessible sound.

The album concludes with an interesting reinterpreting of a New Year's classic "Auld Lang Syne," with King's Kaleidoscope's "All Glory Be To Christ." This track may or may not be well received because of the changed lyrics, but honestly, it actually gives the song a more redeemed quality. Instead of just looking at our lives and reflecting on what has gone by throughout the year, it points to the glory of Jesus and His completed good work. Meaningful lyrics plus a well-known melody equals a powerful song.

So where on the Christmas music spectrum does Joy Has Dawned reside? It is possibly one of the better Christmas offerings I've heard in many a year. The faithful melodies, creative instrumentations, and songs that bring listeners' attention back to Jesus makes this album one that is sure to join the annual rotation of Christmas albums for years and years to come. Brothers and sisters, do yourself a holiday favor and get this album right away. Merry Christmas, y'all.

- Review date: 11/25/12, written by Ryan Barbee of Jesusfreakhideout.com



(JFH Sponsor Spot)

Check out JFH's Lloyd in his first-ever childrens book!

 

. Record Label: Mars Hill Music
. Album length: 5 tracks: 20 minutes, 33 seconds
. Street Date: November 27, 2012
. Buy It: Amazon Music (MP3)

  1. Come Thou Long Expected Jesus (4:07)
  2. O Holy Night (5:45)
  3. Joy Has Dawned (3:31)
  4. O Come All Ye Faithful (3:04)
  5. All Glory Be to Christ (4:06)

 

 

 

 

Leave a Comment

 

 

go to main Album review page
go to Album review archive

 


(JFH Sponsor Spot)

 

 

                 
Check out JFH's Lloyd in his first-ever childrens book!

Search JFH




This Tuesday, November 19, 2024
SINGLES
Mat Kearney Certainty - Single (independent)

This Wednesday, November 20, 2024
ALBUMS
1K Phew Let Go Let God: The EP [Reach]

SINGLES
Drew & Ellie Holcomb High Seas - Single [Magnolia]
Sleeping At Last Let It Snow - Single (independent)

This Thursday, November 21, 2024
ALBUMS
The Choir Translucent (independent)

SINGLES
Wilder Woods Curioso [Dualtone]

This Friday, November 22, 2024
ALBUMS
Coqui I'll Still Have Christmas Day - EP [DREAM]
for KING & COUNTRY A Drummer Boy Christmas (LIVE) [Curb]
The Kingsmen Decades: Vol. 3 & 4 [Horizon]
Jonathan McReynolds Red & Green - EP [Capitol CMG/Motown]
NEEDTOBREATHE Acoustic Live Vol. 1 (CD Reissue) [Omnivore]
NEEDTOBREATHE Live From The Woods (CD Reissue) [Omnivore]
R.kitect Vicious Circles - EP (independent)
Run51 Let's Celebrate - EP [DREAM]
Van Zant Always Look Up [Frontiers Music]

SINGLES
7eventh Time Down I Speak Jesus - Single [BEC]
99 APEX Find A Way Freestyle - Single [Syntax]
Cory Asbury You're Still The One - Single [BEC]
Ashes Remain Lost Light - Single [BEC]
Paul Baloche Angels We Have Heard On High/Glorious (feat. Sarah Kroger) - Single [Integrity]
Elan Brio Sun Rays - Single (independent)
Amy Jay And So It Goes - Single (independent)
Jericko Holy Ground - Single [Syntax]
Reece Lache' Energy - Single (independent)
Vic Lucas Presha - Single [Syntax]
Cliff & Antoinette Murray O Emanuel - Single [DREAM]
Procyse, Dave A. You’re Not Free - Single [Polished Arrow]
River Valley Worship This is Our Jesus (feat. Moriah Christian) - Single [BEC]
Vineyard Worship Royal Son - Single [Integrity]

VINYL
NEEDTOBREATHE Acoustic Live Vol. 1 (Vinyl Reissue) [Omnivore]
NEEDTOBREATHE Live From The Woods (Vinyl Reissue) [Omnivore]

Next Thursday, November 28, 2024
VINYL
Van Zant Always Look Up Vinyl [Girder]

Next Friday, November 29, 2024
ALBUMS
Sixpence None the Richer Dawn of Grace (Deluxe) [Flatiron]
Thrive Worship Christmas, Vol. 2 - EP [Integrity]

SINGLES
ICF Worship Light of the World - Single [Integrity]
Selah Glory Hallelujah (feat. Mike Weaver) - Single [Integrity]
Slow Salvation The Ghost of Christmas Past - Single [Velvet Blue]
Uche Agu, Revival Today Worship Medley of Hymns - Single [DREAM]

VINYL
Sixpence None the Richer Dawn of Grace (Deluxe) Vinyl (Record Store Day Exclusive!) [Flatiron]



For all release dates, click here!
 



Check out the new album from Taylor Holland Armstrong!



Listen to the new Single from Second Adam and the New Creations!

Check out depositphotos for royalty free images