Music for the Celtic Winter season.

Emotion filled, symphonic, infinitely spacious, “Songs of Yule” is an evocative seasonal song cycle for Winter. Using elements from all corners of the globe, Yule is presented through a decidedly Celtic focus. Starting off with the vast icy vistas of “The Gates,” continuing through the raucous parade that is “Feast of Fools,” reflecting the somber introspection of “Midwinter” and “Silver Branch,” the cycle closes with “Dying of the Light,” when the ceremonial log is doused, and the darkest black heralds the light’s eventual return.

With a focus that is emphatically yet subtly spiritual rather than merely religious, this is a perfect winter album that should enhance any seasonal celebratory get together.