'Sleigh Ride' is the second release from talented mixed-voice (4 men, 4 women) a cappella octet An Octave Above, who were 1st runner-up at the 2005 Chicago Harmony Sweeps Regionals. The group has been gaining fans with live performances at many Chicago venues, and this Christmas album shows off some of their cutting-edge arrangements and tight, jazzy harmonies. 12 songs, some of our favorites are the opening cut 'Sleigh Ride,' a moody, jazzy 'What Child is This' (with a fine solo by Debra), a richly harmonized 'Away in a Manger,' a bluesy, funky 'God Rest You Merry Gentlemen,' 'Mary Did You Know' (with Melinda's sweet lead), a surreal, '30s-retro 'Toyland,' a richly Italianesque 'Gesu Bambino,' a nicely-arranged 'O Holy Night,' a classic 'Silent Night,' and an upbeat 'We Three Kings' with tight vocal percussion by Scott. Good fun stuff from Chicago sure to brighten your holidays!

Listen to Away in a Manger in RealAudio.