Lisa Lynne and George Tortorelli use an impressive list of instruments, including the Celtic harp, wire strung harp, mandolin, dulcimer, bowzouki, glockenspiel, bamboo flute, recorder, santoor and more, to create an airy, ethereal sound. Their interpretations include "The First Noel," "Joy to the World," "O Come O Come Emmanuel" and "The Little Drummer Boy," and original compositions "To Drive the Cold Winter Away" and "Morning Star," which are fully in keeping with the soft, seasonal sound. There's a bit of sameness to some of the selections, but if you're looking for soft, moody music for backgrounds, you could do worse. — C.W.

MARAH; "Marah Presents 'A Christmas Kind of Town' " (Yep Roc)

With a touch of soulful, roots-rock and polka, Marah has found itself gaining favor with music fans across the country. The band's new Christmas album is bound to bring more fans to the fold. Recorded in a live setting in New York, the album brings back the flavor of vintage holiday AM-radio commercial skits, and some toe-tapping takes on "Holly Jolly Christmas," "Let It Snow," three versions of "Here We Come a Wassailing" and "Christmas Time's a Comin'." — S.I.

TODD McCABE and APRIL MORIARTY; "My Redeemer Lives Volume Three: Bethlehem"

(Sounds of Zion) Pianist Todd McCabe and violinist April Moriarty perform songs celebrating Christ's birth in this elegant and eloquent CD. The two perform with an exciting synergy, complementing and enhancing each other as they trade off melody and accompaniment on original arrangements of familiar carols and hymns. Included are "What Child Is This," "O Holy Night," "Away in the Manger," "O Come, O Come Emmanuel" and "Some Children See Him." They also add intriguing medleys such as "Still, Still, Still/Stars Were Gleaming," "I Wonder As I Wander/We Three Kings" and "Oh, Come All Ye Faithful/Joyful, Joyful We Adore Thee." A respectful, reverent collection that offers something new with each play. — C.W.

MARSHALL MCDONALD; "Christmas Dreams" (Covenant)

"Christmas Dreams" is the name of one of the songs from McDonald's musical score for "Christmas Oranges," which is included on this CD, but it also describes his long-held desire to do a Christmas album. The fulfillment of those dreams are a listener's delight. This collection is filled with flowing melodies and impressive piano technique, new interpretations of old favorites and original compositions. The version of "Still, Still, Still," which also features Steven Nelson on the cello is a beautiful rendition. Vocals by Chad Neth add interest on "Christmas This Way," which was written by McDonald's sister, Rebecca. The original compositions create a soft mood, while the ethereal vocals on "Alleluia" make it an angelic anthem of grace. — C.W.

JANE MONHEIT; "The Season" (Epic)