Enya

Lyrics

[English Lyrics]

[Verse 1]
O come, O come, Emmanuel
To free your captive Israel
That mourns in lonely exile here
Until the Son of God appear

[Refrain 1]
Rejoice! Rejoice! O Israel
To you shall come Emmanuel

[Verse 2]
O veni, veni Emmanuel
Captivum solve Israel
Qui gemit in exilio
Privates Dei Filio

[Refrain 2]
Gaude! Gaude! Emmanuel
Nascetur pro te, Israel

[Bridge]
Gaude! Gaude!
Gaude! Gaude!
Gaude! Gaude!
Gaude! Gaude!
[Refrain 2]
Gaude! Gaude! Emmanuel
Nascetur pro te, Israel

[Refrain 2]
Gaude! Gaude! Emmanuel
Nascetur pro te, Israel

If you're looking for a song that perfectly captures the spirit of the holiday season, look no further than Enya's enchanting rendition of "O Come, O Come, Emmanuel." Released as the third track on her 2008 album, And Winter Came…, this timeless classic embodies the essence of anticipation and longing for the arrival of Christmas. With its hauntingly beautiful melodies and ethereal vocals, Enya takes listeners on a captivating musical journey that will leave you yearning for more.

About O Come, O Come, Emmanuel

"O Come, O Come, Emmanuel" is a traditional Christian hymn that originated in the 12th century. Its history dates back to the Latin liturgical text known as the "O Antiphons," which were chanted or sung during the week leading up to Christmas Eve. These antiphons each begin with an invocation of the Messiah using a different Old Testament title and are rooted in the prophecy of Isaiah.

Enya's rendition of "O Come, O Come, Emmanuel" stays true to the hymn's rich history and captures its essence with a contemporary twist. Her mesmerizing vocals, layered harmonies, and lush instrumentation combine to create a transcendent atmosphere that immerses the listener in a world of enchantment and wonder.

From the moment the song begins, you are instantly transported to a realm of ethereal beauty. The gentle piano introduces the melody, setting the stage for Enya's hauntingly pure voice to take center stage. Her vocals effortlessly soar through the verses, infusing each note with a sense of longing and anticipation. The hauntingly beautiful harmonies add depth to the song, creating a captivating choral effect that resonates with the listener.

The arrangement of "O Come, O Come, Emmanuel" is meticulously crafted, with each instrument playing a crucial role in building the atmosphere. The sweeping orchestration, including strings and atmospheric synths, adds grandeur to the song, evoking a sense of mystery and majesty. The ethereal choir that accompanies Enya's voice adds a celestial touch, elevating the song to new heights.

Enya's masterful production is complemented by the poignant lyrics of "O Come, O Come, Emmanuel." The hymn's verses convey a deep sense of longing, as they anticipate the arrival of the Messiah. The lyrics speak of the Israelites' yearning for deliverance, capturing the essence of hope and redemption.

Enya's interpretation of the song infuses these lyrics with a sense of vulnerability and emotion. Her voice carries the weight of the longing expressed in the words, evoking a profound connection between the listener and the message conveyed. The simplicity and purity of her delivery beautifully reflect the power and meaning behind the hymn.

One of the most remarkable aspects of Enya's rendition is her ability to create an otherworldly ambiance through her production techniques. The song is bathed in a celestial light, as if it is transcending time and space. Her use of layered vocals and echo effects lends an ethereal quality to the music, intensifying the emotional impact of the lyrics.

Enya's version of "O Come, O Come, Emmanuel" is not just a song; it is a celestial experience. It transports the listener to a realm where the boundaries of time and space seem to dissipate, leaving only a longing for the presence of the divine. Enya's ethereal vocals and masterful production combine to create a piece of music that resonates deep within the soul.

So, this holiday season, take a moment to immerse yourself in the captivating sounds of Enya's "O Come, O Come, Emmanuel." Let its enchanting melodies and evocative lyrics transport you to a place of hope, longing, and timeless beauty. Allow yourself to be embraced by the celestial atmosphere and experience the profound emotional journey that awaits. With Enya's rendition, Christmas will never be the same again.

• Release Date: November 10, 2008
• Artist: Enya