Irish singer Keith Harkin released his new Christmas album, “A
Cosy Chistmas,” on November 22, 2024. The album features 10 songs and is about
39 minutes long. It is available for streaming on online platforms. Keith also
has a CD and vinyl available for purchase on his website.
The album starts out with a song called “My Old Friend.” The
lyrics tell the story of someone returning to their hometown for Christmas. For
those who knew Keith from his Celtic Thunder days, the vibe feels a lot like a
Christmas version of “Homes of Donegal.” It is a lovely song that tells of the
love the singer feels when they return home for Christmas. There is a bit of an
echo effect at one point, which seemed out-of-place, especially since it was
not used anywhere else in the song.
The next song of the album is Keith’s cover “First of May.”
While this song does mention Christmas trees, I never personally considered it
a straight Christmas song, especially not in the traditional sense.
Nonetheless, it is a gorgeous song with a beautiful message of growing older through
the years. Keith’s version has parts that are a bit broken up while other
versions have lines that roll together more smoothly. However, his voice is so
emotional and passionate. In the revisiting of a previous verse towards the
end, Keith ad-libs, which, to me, was a bit distracting.
Keith’s version of “Silent Night” on this album is
absolutely heartfelt and beautiful. It starts with what sounds like a fire in
the fireplace, which helps give the cozy vibes that is mentioned in the title
of the album. This version gives a sense of Keith serenading listeners as they
celebrate with their families.
My favorite song on the album is “Raise Another Glass.” It
is so easy to get caught up in the hustle, bustle, and joy of the season that
it can be easy to overlook those who may be suffering during the holiday
season. Some people are struggling to make ends meet. Some families are
broken and dysfunctional. People are battling various illnesses. These things
and more can really dampen the holiday spirit. This song really pays mind to
those who may be struggling. In a time where many are not feeling the holiday
spirit, this song reminds them that they are not alone and gives people
permission to not feel the happiest during a season where they are made to feel
guilty for feeling down.
While most of the songs on the album are Christmas songs,
there are a few that are not (“Can’t Help Falling In Love” and “You Are So
Beautiful [Bonus Track]). There are a couple that can be debated as to whether
they are Christmas songs or not (“Hallelujah” and “First of May”). These aside,
the album is overall really great. It really gives the feel that you are listening
to Keith sing an intimate performance for you and your family as you celebrate
the holiday season. My favorite part of the album is the simplicity of the
songs with just Keith and his guitar. The album’s title is “A Cosy Christmas,”
and it truly does live up to its name.