Prime Cuts: "Merry Everything, Happy Always," "Christmas Dreams," "Grandma's House"
Overall Grade: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
Krissy Nordhoff has built much of her career writing songs that have become anthems in the voices of others-timeless worship favorites such as "Your Great Name" (recorded by Natalie Grant), "Back to Life" (Mandisa), and "Famous For [I Believe]" (Tauren Wells featuring Jenn Johnson), all of which have resonated in churches and hearts around the world. But with her new Christmas EP Merry Everything, Happy Always, Nordhoff steps forward with a collection that feels as personal as it is joyful. This project isn't just another seasonal add-on to her catalog; it's an embodiment of warmth, gratitude, and unfiltered delight in the Savior's coming.
From the first sleigh bell shimmer of the title track, Nordhoff sets a tone that's celebratory yet tender. Rather than chasing grandeur, she leans into an understated intimacy-songs that feel like they could have been born by the fireplace with family close by. Produced and co-written with longtime collaborator Lonnie Lee Fowler, the EP captures the easy chemistry of two friends who have written from both faith and friendship for years. Nordhoff herself said she made these songs "just because it makes me happy," and that sense of unforced joy runs through every note.
The opening track, "Merry Everything, Happy Always," feels like a gentle prayer wrapped in melody-a song of thanksgiving that flows with effortless grace. Its tender piano lines and warm harmonies mirror the peace it celebrates, offering a sense of contentment that lingers long after the final chord. "Grandma's House" shifts the tone toward wistful remembrance, painting vivid scenes of Christmases past with a palpable ache. Nordhoff's voice carries the tenderness of memory without tipping into sentimentality, evoking the bittersweet beauty of family traditions and the passing of time.
"Snowbird" stands as the EP's most poetic entry, describing a small bird perched on a windowsill. Its imagery is lovely and fragile, though it stretches the connection to Christmas a little thin; still, it adds a contemplative pause, a breath of wintry stillness amid the warmth of the other songs. "Snow Ball," sweeps listeners into a romantic and cozy soundscape, complete with the faint howl of winter wind and a melody that spins like a soft waltz. It captures the paradox of the season, where the world outside is cold while the heart glows warmly within, creating a sense of intimacy and gentle wonder. Together, these songs showcase Nordhoff's gift for crafting music that is both deeply personal and quietly worshipful, reminding listeners that joy and gratitude can shine even in the most peaceful moments.
In the end, Merry Everything, Happy Always feels like more than a holiday project-it's a reflection of Krissy Nordhoff's heart at rest. Each song overflows with gratitude, hope, and quiet faith, reminding us that Christmas is not merely a date on the calendar but a posture of the soul. With this EP, Nordhoff invites listeners to slow down, breathe deeply, and rediscover the wonder of Emmanuel, God with us, in the simplest and sweetest of moments.
