Although 2 references to christmas are made it doesn't have that feeling that it was intended to be a christmas song.
The first thing I noticed about this song is the really dominant drum beat which I personally really like. The second thing was the beautiful tone in Roberts voice. Then the gradual introduction of guitars, keys and other percussion instruments makes this arrangement something that sounds that little bit different so I think it will stand out in any playlist.
I think the river referred to in this song is sometimes an escape route when mistakes in life are made but sometimes it is also a route to your dreams. I think we all wish we had this river occasionally.
Having heard this song, I now want to check out other songs by Robert O'Connor.