The album package tells the story of a baby offered sacrificially to end an ongoing war between two Indian tribes in Irian Jaya. Missionary Don Richardson learned the tribal language to tell the tribes of the original Peace Child, the One to whom this smooth album is dedicated. Wayburn Dean’s passion for this Child strongly flavors this entertaining Christmas album, as do his creative arrangements. From the first surprising jazzy strains of “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” you know you’re in for something special.
“Have Yourself” is a strong opening, rich with George Benson-like guitar riffs and Wayburn Dean’s warm vocals. A passionate rendition of “The First Noel” follows, Dean’s expressive vocals weaving in and out of the strong arrangements. Some of our traditional Christmas songs are difficult to make interesting, especially after years of repeated listening. But Dean manages to lend an air of historic authenticity to “O Come Emmanuel” with his crisp production and soulful vocals.
Nat King Cole’s ”The Christmas Song” is buttery smooth and mellow, and Dean gives a rousing rendition of “Away in a Manger” but the swing goes out of things for the next few tracks. The homogenized background vocals and programming somehow zap the rock out of “Jingle Bell Rock” and even the worshipful “What Child is This?” has a Muzak feel to it. It’s a testament to the excellence of the project that these tracks dissipate the energy level as much as they do.
Things pick back up again with the title track, a smooth ballad, and continue on right up to powerful piano-driven closer, “O Holy Night.” The simple arrangements allow Dean’s warm vocals to shine, giving his heartfelt worship the prominence it deserves. At just under 38 minutes, “Peace Child” leaves you wanting more, but more of Wayburn Dean’s Christmas music can only be good. Add some swing to your holiday this year with Wayburn Dean’s delightful “Peace Child.”
More new Christmas offerings: Todd Agnew's "Do You See What I See?", from Moya Brennan "An Irish Christmas", and "The Christmas Hope" from Newsong.
