Rose of Bethlehem, the third studio album and first Christmas offering from multiple Dove Award-winning Curb recording artist Selah, is slated for release October 29. Produced by Jason Kyle, Todd Smith, Allan Hall and Nicol Smith, the album features 10 selections, a combination of traditional holiday favorites and original compositions.

Rose of Bethlehem includes the title track; "Light of the Stable"; "O Holy Night"; "Silent Night" and "What Child Is This?" Highlights of the project also include an arrangement of "O Come, O Come, Emmanuel," which incorporates the national anthem of Israel, and "Once Upon A Christmas," featuring a duet with the song's composer, country music legend Dolly Parton.

In addition, Selah's Nicol Smith, Allan Hall and Todd Smith penned the album's first single, "Joy," which is slated for release to Christian AC formats later this fall. Rose of Bethlehem also features the original compositions "Mystery," penned by Todd and Angie Smith, as well as the African-influenced "Noel," written in the Kituba language by Todd Smith.

"We're really thrilled with how Rose of Bethlehem has turned out," said Selah's Allan Hall. "Several of these songs have been recorded many times before, so we wanted to be sure we had our own stamp to put on the creative process. In the end, I think we succeeded in finding unique and different ways to express the timeless message in these songs." "We hope people will feel the joy of the season in this music," concludes Hall, "but through some of the more reflective songs like 'Rose of Bethlehem' and 'Mystery,' it was so important for us to touch upon the ultimate reason for His birth-- to be a sacrifice."

"It has truly been a pleasure to watch Selah spread their wings and fly over the past few years," said Dennis Hannon, vice president and general manager, Curb Records. "Everyone at the label is excited about the release of the Christmas album; it wonderfully showcases the versatility and talent of these three individuals. The music on this CD will truly be a blessing to everyone who hears it."

Kicking off November 24 in San Antonio, Texas, Selah will headline a multi-city Christmas Tour, with a special guest to be announced. Stops are slated to include Detroit; St. Paul, Minnesota; Grand Rapids, Michigan; Oshkosh, Wisconsin; Greenville, Ohio; and Binghamton, New York, among other markets.

With a career total of five Gospel Music Association Dove Awards, Selah's 2001 sophomore release, Press On, and the group's 1999 Curb debut, Be Still My Soul, were named Inspirational Album of the year in 2002 and 2000, respectively. In addition, Press On reached the #1 position on SoundScan's Top Inspirational Albums chart and featured the Dove Award-winning rendition of "Hold On," as well as two #1 Inspirational singles, "Press On," and "Wonderful, Merciful Saviour."

Rose of Bethlehem will be distributed by Word Distribution.