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Our Review

When the holidays have you pulling your hair out, finding safe refuge is crucial, and Christmas--Plain & Simple may be your escape hatch. Michele McLaughlin's album is, plain and simple, new age piano music that will soothe the spirits and lift the heart. If you enjoy the talents of George Winston, for example, you will be swept away by McLaughlin's bright and emotive touch here.

Instrumental piano music can transport the weary soul to a much calmer locale. McLaughlin's album did that for me this evening. Largely self-taught, the artist has great instincts as she navigates the keyboard, and her rich arrangements bring impressive textures out of ancient carols you have heard hundreds of times before. A songwriter as well, McLaughlin's five sweetly-crafted originals are naturals. I especially enjoyed By the Fire, which brought to mind special moments curled in an overstuffed chair by the hearth.

Christmas is all about memories, both old and new. Beautiful new age music can facilitate contemplation and intensify the recollections of a lifetime during the holidays and beyond. Let Michele McLaughlin's solo piano on Christmas--Pure and Simple help you open yourself to the power of the possible. It's a lovely trip.

--Carol Swanson
(Reviewed in 2006)

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From the liner notes:

All traditional Christmas songs arranged by Michele McLaughlin
Original compositions composed, written and produced by Michele McLaughlin
Album cover photograph taken by Pat Lambrose

I am very pleased to share with you my new album, Christmas--Plain & Simple. This album includes ten traditional Christmas songs as well as five original compositions. I have wanted to produce a Christmas album for many years now and after a long journey, that dream is coming true. Please enjoy!
--Michele McLaughlin

Michele McLaughlin

Christmas--Pure and Simple

Artist link

Track List