, the head of , is the son of the Yiddish writer , and is ' flagship artist. That may help explain the existence of this record, on which recites 's account of the birth of Jesus Christ. weaves an elaborate tale about Mary and Joseph's arrival in Bethlehem and Joseph's requests of several prominent figures -- and -- for a place to stay for his wife, who is "big with child." All refuse him, and the family ends up in a manger, only to draw the attention of wise men and kings who reprove the city fathers for their neglect. writes in a semi-biblical style using archaic language, as if to provide one more gospel for the New Testament. reads well, expressively intoning the words of the various characters. He supplements the story with half a dozen appropriate Christmas carols and spirituals touching upon the same story of Christ's birth, making this a good Christmas recording for the holidays. ~ William Ruhlmann