There are simply things that require a traditional approach, and in my book Christmas music is one of them. There is a reason that the same songs have been sung around the Christmas tree for the past century or so, they are a celebration of the season, and a reminder of season’s past. That said, Martina McBride has created a Christmas disc here that will be a welcome addition to any CD player for years to come.

Martina puts her vocal styling on twelve classic Christmas songs, and her voice has never sounded better. The album is absent of real country flair; instead McBride is backed by a full orchestra allowing her voice to explore areas it has not been able to explore in the past. On this collection McBride truly shows why she was the CMA’s Female Vocalist choice this year.

It’s hard for me to pick a favorite track on this CD. All of them are excellent. Martina’s voice shines on songs like O Holy Night, Away In A Manger and Silent Night. Songs like Let It Snow, Let It Snow, Let It Snow and Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas are fun to listen to over and over again.

Overall, this is a classic Christmas album that is more than worthy of being added to your Christmas collection. If you need to do some last minute Christmas shopping, pick a few of these discs up for your friends, and they will be able to enjoy these fantastic vocal performances for years to come! Happy Holidays!

-Darren O'Neill

courtesy of www.womenofcountry.com