Reviewer Tom Lennie wrote in his review of this very special recording: “This album is a gem of a production, and is set to become an annual delight in many a household.” His words have indeed come true.

Christmas Carols and Songs is a beautiful blend of traditional carols sung and performed by a band, soloists, string orchestra and featuring the boys and girls choirs of Peterborough Cathedral, the first time that the two choirs with their differing tonal characteristics had been recorded together. This recording draws from the original folk and classic roots of many of well-known carols; it unites contemporary and traditional instrumentalists, choirs and singers in a celebration of the true message of Christmas.

IKOS are

  • David Clifton – Vocals, guitars, mandolin, mandola, arrangements,
  • Mark Russell – Keyboards, string and choir arrangements,
  • Dudley Phillips – Bass guitar, double bass
  • Steve Creese – Drums and percussionTerl Bryant  – Percussion
  • The Choirs of Peterborough Cathedral
  • Master of the Music, Christopher Gower
  • Organist, Oliver Waterer

Accompanying Musicians

  • Jane Siberry, Lizzie Deane – Guest vocals and harmonies
  • Greg Miner – Irish harp
  • Paul Twelftree – Flugelhorn
  • Mike Haughton – Alto saxophone and recorder
  • Simon Russell – Bass guitar (Silent Night)

The London Telefilmonic Orchestra

  • 1st Violins – Richard Studt, Hilary Sturt, Levon Chilingrian, David Adams, Levine Andrade
  • 2nd Violins – Jon Morton, Fran Andrade, Ian Humphries, Catherine Leonard
  • Violas – Louise Williams, Jon Thorne
  • Cellos – Nick Holland, Lionel Handy, Jo Garcia

Produced and arranged by

  • Mark Russell and David Clifton

Mixed by

  • Jon Kelly

Associated artists