Reviewed by Ian Phillips.
By Sheppard, Chugg Music/Kaos 2021.
I received this track last Christmas but, as I only review one Christmas song/album each year and that had already occurred, Sheppard missed out.
They nearly did so again this year as I was all set to review Jimmy Barnes’ Christmas album, but it has already achieved number one status knocking off Taylor Swift from top spot on the charts, therefor it doesn’t need my help.
So, it’s Sheppard’s turn and they deserve the accolade because Christmas Without You is a terrific song.
This track was streamed over two million times when it was released last year so it’s already a success.
The song is beautifully presented with reflective lyrics that tap into the sadness we experience when we’re unable to be with loved ones at this special time of the year.
Considering that it was written just after the extensive world-wide COVID lockdowns, it was particularly poignant at the time and still is.
George Sheppard’s sweet vocal is not only expressive it’s also crystal clear, bringing the excellent lyrics sharply into focus.
The track builds to a cathartic climax and is sure to become a classic that’s pulled out each Christmas.
This Brisbane based group, comprised of siblings George, Amy, and Emma Sheppard, along with lead guitarist Jason Bovino and drummer Dean Gordon, have achieved incredible success both locally and internationally in recent years.
They have clocked over one billion streams across all platforms, achieved number one singles in numerous countries, and headlined the entertainment at the Melbourne Cup, the State of Origin, and the half-time spot at the AFL grand Final.
They’ve also toured nationally supporting Delta Goodrem and have a substantial following in the USA.
In terms of sales alone they are one of our best bands.
Give this track a listen, it’s very good.
