Christmas music often evokes memories of the past, but these seasonal songs go way, way back: polyphonic vocal music from early European composers—the likes of Byrd, Tallis, Praetorius and their contemporaries—steeped in solemn celebration of the holiday’s religious meaning. Whether sacred music expressing joy over the miracle of Christ’s birth, tender lullabies for Mary’s newly-born infant or pieces about enjoying Yuletide feasts, there’s no missing the gorgeous harmony singing and fervent spirit in these songs.