A Winter Garden: Five Songs for the Season

Released in 1995, A Winter Garden: Five Songs for the Season serves as a bridge between McKennitt's breakthrough The Mask and Mirror and her later global success. Recorded at Real World Studios, the EP showcases her signature 'eclectic Celtic' style, notably applying Middle Eastern rhythmic sensibilities to traditional Western carols like 'God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen.' This cross-cultural approach distinguishes the record from standard holiday fare. While only five tracks long, the EP is highly regarded for its sonic depth and high production values, featuring long-time collaborators like cellist Caroline Lavelle. It was later incorporated into the 2008 full-length release A Midwinter Night’s Dream, but the original EP remains a cult favorite for its concise, focused atmosphere of winter solitude and sacred folk tradition.