: Ellen Reid’s backing vocals provide a necessary, ethereal counterpoint. When she joins in on the chorus, her higher register provides the "light" to Roberts’ "dark," creating a chilling harmonic depth that mimics the vastness of the night sky described in the lyrics.
The most striking element of this cover is, predictably, Brad Roberts’ voice. His legendary bass-baritone—which would soon take over global airwaves with "Mmm Mmm Mmm Mmm"—turns the bright, triumphant "Born is the King of Israel" into a somber, grounded proclamation. crash_test_dummies_the_first_noel_1992
: They slow the song down significantly. By lingering on the notes, they emphasize the narrative aspect of the shepherds in the field, giving the lyrics a weight that is usually lost in more uptempo, orchestral arrangements. Critical Verdict : Ellen Reid’s backing vocals provide a necessary,