Hallelujah! It's Christmas! - Phil Wickham

Album Review: Hallelujah! It's Christmas! by Phil Wickham

Release Date: November 1, 2024
Genre: Christian/Holiday
Length: 15 Songs, 48 Minutes

1. Album Overview

Phil Wickham’s Hallelujah! It's Christmas! is a festive masterpiece blending traditional Christmas classics with heartfelt, original songs that reflect the joy and wonder of the season. With his unmistakable vocals and vibrant arrangements, Wickham captures both the reverence of Christ’s birth and the warmth of holiday celebration. This is Wickham’s fourth holiday album, and it’s packed with memorable melodies, rich collaborations, and timeless Christmas spirit.

Score: 93/100 (Festive and Spirit-Filled)

2. Technical Mastery

The production on Hallelujah! It’s Christmas! is polished and balanced, allowing Wickham’s soaring voice to shine while supporting it with lush instrumentation. Traditional tracks like "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen" and "Silent Night, Holy Night" maintain their classic feel while incorporating modern elements. The collaborations—particularly "Behold (feat. Anne Wilson)" and "A Cradle in Bethlehem (feat. Evan Wickham)"—add depth and variety. Every arrangement feels intentional, from the jubilant "Deck The Halls" to the reflective "Shepherd Boy."

Score: 91/100 (Skilled and Beautifully Produced)

3. Artistic Depth

Phil Wickham manages to strike the perfect balance between fun, festive joy and deep, reverent worship. Original songs like "Hallelujah! It’s Christmas!" and "Manger Throne" invite listeners to meditate on the miracle of Christ’s birth, while the cheerful "Winter Wonderland (feat. The Wickham Sisters)" brings a sense of familial warmth. His take on "O Christmas Tree (Greatest Story)" transforms a familiar carol into a meaningful celebration of the Gospel, showcasing Wickham’s creativity and faith-centered artistry.

Score: 94/100 (Thoughtful and Creative)

4. Audience Appeal

Whether you’re looking for worshipful Christmas tunes or lighthearted caroling favorites, Hallelujah! It’s Christmas! has something for everyone. It’s perfect for church services, family gatherings, or personal reflection during the holidays. Longtime fans of Wickham will appreciate his fresh originals, while those seeking a traditional Christmas soundtrack will enjoy his heartfelt renditions of beloved classics.

Score: 95/100 (Broad and Joyful)

5. Standout Moments

• "Behold (feat. Anne Wilson)": A stunning duet that beautifully captures the wonder of Christ’s birth.

• "Deck The Halls": A fun, energetic collaboration with CHPTRS that brings a modern twist to the classic.

• "Shepherd Boy": A tender, reflective original that tells the Christmas story from a fresh perspective.

• "O Christmas Tree (Greatest Story)": A creative reimagining that connects the Christmas tree to the Gospel story.

6. Final Verdict

Hallelujah! It’s Christmas! is a holiday album that combines joy, reverence, and artistry in a way only Phil Wickham can deliver. With its mix of timeless classics, heartfelt originals, and standout collaborations, the album invites listeners to celebrate the season with both fun and worshipful reflection. This is a must-listen for anyone seeking a Christ-centered Christmas soundtrack.

Overall Score: 93/100 (Heartwarming and Uplifting)

Recommended Tracks: Behold (feat. Anne Wilson), Shepherd Boy, O Christmas Tree (Greatest Story), Hallelujah! It’s Christmas!