Mary-Kate Spring Lee is a multi-talented musician of my acquaintance, one whom I have seen mostly performing with members of her family band, Seasons. On Carol of the Child, which will be released for distribution within a few days on Bandcamp, Mary-Kate focuses on the harp -- the instrument with which I most often associate her, although certainly not the only one that she plays.

On 11 tracks, Mary-Kate weaves together a delightfully restrained and refined homage to the Christmas season. Many of the tunes are very familiar, others less so. The album pieces together well-known carols -- including "The Holly & the Ivy," "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen," "Silent Night," "Ding Dong Merrily On High" and "O Little Town of Bethlehem" -- with Irish melodies (including three by Turlough O'Carolan) such as "Lord Masserene," "Christmas Eve Reel," "The Sweetheart Reel," "Celia Connellen" and "Planxty Crilly."

It's a lovely blend, presented here with subtlety, serenity and a great deal of musical skill.

One might be tempted to play this in the background during family gatherings over the holidays, and certainly this album is an appropriate choice for just such an occasion. It sits neatly in the background, tugging at the corners of your attention just enough to allow listeners to enjoy the music while going about the business of making merry.

But don't let it sit wholly in the background, either -- every now and then, you should sit close and pay attention to the artistry at work here. Mary-Kate has a firm yet delicate touch on the harp strings, which ring out with self-assured emotion and flawless intonation.

I don't add many new Christmas albums to my collection each year, but Carol of the Child was a pleasant surprise and a welcome addition.