Music from the group’s most recent CD This Christmastide and previous five critically-acclaimed releases will be featured during the concert. The ensemble’s previous CD, Wintergrace, is characterized by local music critic, Jim Walsh:

Surely “…one of the most elegant and listenable Christmas collections of this or any year — “WinterGrace” from the Billy McLaughlin-led local collective SimpleGifts” – MinnPost

As long-time fans will tell you, SimpleGifts featuring Billy McLaughlin makes musical magic by bringing a modern flair to traditional Christmas carols and hymns. Staying close to the heart of Christmas, by avoiding commercial and pop holiday repertoire has become the trademark of this award winning six-piece ensemble. SimpleGifts instead combines violin, Celtic flutes and bagpipes, piano, acoustic guitar and percussion with angelic three part female vocals to create a “modern Old-World” sound.

Moreover, here is nothing ordinary about the arrangements this team delivers both in the studio and in concert. Seen by over 20,000 live audience members last season, this group continues to grow in popularity having successfully transitioned from their early days in coffeehouses and small listening rooms to prestigious performing art centers and larger churches.

“There was no “Frosty the Snowman”, or “Santa Claus is Coming to Town” in the performance of SimpleGifts. Rather, Billy and his incredible group covered the arc of the Christmas narrative in a beautiful and profound way that touched the audience very deeply.” — Brian Jose, Executive Director College of St. Benedict Fine Arts Series St. Joseph, MN

“The angelic vocals and wonderful musical accompaniment are a breathtaking combination. Experiencing this concert makes one pause and reflect on what the season is all about. Overall this is the real music of Christmas.” — Richard Kettering, Acoustic Roots Music Series Shattuck-St. Mary’s School, Faribault, MN