Joy: A Holiday Collection

"I've always wanted to do a Christmas album," says Jewel, "because I love the holiday and the songs, but I had no idea how much fun it would be."

Produced by the legendary Arif Mardin, 'Joy: A Holiday Collection' sees the acclaimed singer / songwriter performing a number of seasonal favourites, as well as a new Christmas-themed version of her hit, "Hands". The album also includes all-new renditions of such Yuletide staples as "Silent Night," "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing," and "Winter Wonderland."

Two new, original Jewel songs reveal the depth and diversity of the artist's expanding vision. "Face Of Love," a dynamic and heart-felt expression of faith, soars with the strength of Jewel's rich vocals and delicate instrumental accompaniment. The similarly stirring, dramatic "Gloria" finds Jewel drawing inspiration from J.S. Bach's B Minor Mass and adapting Latin liturgy in the creation of a unique musical statement. In addition, "JOY" features an inspirational "Ave Maria," as well as "Gospel Medley," which encompasses the spiritual standard, "Go Tell It On The Mountain," Jewel's own "Life Uncommon," and the Bette Midler classic, "From A Distance."

"I got to use my voice in a way I don't get to in my own music," Jewel notes. "Like 'Ave Maria,' for instance. I also got to sing gospel music, which I haven't done since before I got signed."

Taking his cues from Jewel's remarkable voice, Mardin - renowned for his work with such famed singers as Aretha Franklin, Bette Midler, Barbra Streisand, Chaka Khan, Dusty Springfield, and Patti LaBelle - has created beautifully soulful arrangements that provide each track with the ideal musical backdrop, interlacing strings, brass, choir, and acoustic instrumentation. "Working with Arif was great," Jewel beams. "He made doing a Christmas record a breeze. He has great taste, and creatively we always saw things eye-to-eye."

"Making this album was such a rewarding musical experience," enthuses Mardin. "I've been blessed to work with so many great singers in my career, and Jewel is definitely one of them. She is so gifted. Her voice can be angelic, so sweet and beautiful, and then she'll sing this gutsy gospel music or fun songs like 'Rudolph.' There's such variety to her talent.