(Review from allmusic)

With Ray Thomas deciding to retire after the latest tour, the band is trimmed to a trio with additional musicians.

“December” is an album about the spirit of Christmas but with its lack of carols, it sounds more like another chapter in the Moody Blues’ legend.

Like many Moody Blues records since the 1980s, the original songs are nostalgic, pointing listeners back to memories of an idyllic past when things were simpler, and toward the hope that social and spiritual renewal are just around the corner.

The set features a number of Hayward and Lodge originals, obscure and traditional Anglo folk songs, a transposed piece by Bach, and a cover of John Lennon and Yoko Ono’s “Happy Xmas (War Is Over)” — alas, if only that were true.
There is no new age drivel here; its topics and themes are indeed Christian, but weigh on the side of those that are universally held: brotherhood, compassion, hope, goodwill, and generosity.

It’s beautifully orchestrated and produced. Its sound is pristine, and Hayward and Lodge with their trademark elegance sound as if they mean every word they write and sing. It most certainly is sentimental and lush, and has nothing whatsoever to do with rock & roll.

Line-up:
- Justin Hayward / vocals, guitar
- John Lodge / vocals, bass
- Graeme Edge / drums
with
- Danilo Madonia / keyboards, sequencing
- Norda Mullen / flute

Track List:
01. Don’t Need A Reindeer – 3:59
02. December Snow – 5:11
03. In The Quiet Of Christmas Morning – 2:51
04. On This Christmas Day – 3:40
05. Happy Xmas (War Is Over) – 2:37
06. A Winter’s Tale – 4:28
07. The Spirit Of Christmas – 4:52
08. Yes I Believe – 4:21
09. When A Child Is Born – 3:34
10. White Christmas – 3:08
11. In The Bleak Midwinter – 3:21

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