"Silent Night (2020 Version)" by Stylusboy

I am pleased to be able to announce to you that Stylusboy has just released a seasonal single for us, being a cover of "Silent Night" and that all profits will be donated to Carriers of Hope, who work with vulnerable families across Coventry.

This Christmas, Carriers of Hope are delivering hundreds of shoeboxes full of presents and Christmas dinner bags to children, with the aim of making Christmas a little brighter for those who find themselves in need, so supporting them via this single would make a difference.

It's difficult (as I commented recently on Rob Halligan's release) to make too much of a deep comment on covers of songs so incredibly well known: the issue of the writing is way beyond what I feel I can reasonably discuss & unless the arrangement is drastically radical (which probably wouldn't show much respect) then we are left with such personal issues of my response etc. Fortunately Stylusboy has approached this recording with his customary taste & class (it appears to be solely available as a download so unfortunately we aren't able to experience the artistry he normally brings to his packaging), recording it in his own (home) Truffle Room Studio  with the help of Becky Jones on piano, glockenspiel & harmonies while providing vocals, guitar, ukulele, synth & programming himself.

What distinguishes this version of the classic from any I've heard is this innovative soundscape, founded on an unusual Indian sounding drone effect which ushers the track in & then sits deeper within the track. Otherwise the simple ukulele dominated arrangement (with an equally simple & effective electric guitar passage to offer variety part way through) is appropriate, throwing focus definitely upon the vocals which are mixed high & have an earnest feel which serves to refresh the song.