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I don't have another CD in my library that features harpsichord. While piano, harp, and organ are well-represented in my holiday collection, I cannot remember where harpsichord is used at all, let alone making it the featured instrument.

If the use of this Renaissance instrument is not unusual enough, Jackson Berkey has composed extremely modern-sounding arrangements, paradoxically giving much of the CD the texture of a Mannheim Steamroller release. It is funny how Berkey's harpsichord reminds me of those, not so much in the sound of the instrument (which sounds "real" and not synthetic at all) but in the way he has contemporized the use of the instrument.

Harpsichord Carols is full of surprises, and my enjoyment of it increased as it went along. Three Kings from the Orient is a particularly charming song, featuring a busy instrumental arrangement, a lively tempo, and nice integration of harpsichord and harp.

As with Berkey's other work, this CD is distinguished by the juxtaposition of traditional and modern elements, making it much more interesting to the unschooled listener (like me). While the songs on this recording may not become breakout hits on adult contemporary radio, there is no reason why they shouldn't.

--Richard Banks
(Reviewed in 2004)

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From the liner notes:

Jackson Berkey, Piano and harpsichord

Kathy Bundock Moore, Concert Harp

Produced by Jackson Berkey and Clete Baker

Jackson Berkey & Kathy Bundock Moore

Harpsichord Carols

Artist link

Track List