christmas music reviews (2020 edition)

The holiday season is fully underway. What could be more thrilling? How about a handful of new musical releases from some of the best and brightest? This year, there have been an awful lot of Christmas themed albums hitting the shelves. As an avid music lover and Christmas fanatic...this has been extra exciting for me. Especially since so many of my favourite artists were responsible for these seasonal albums. Wondering which ones are worth looking into? Are you ready to add something special to your holiday music collection? Then keep on reading. Here are some Christmas music reviews for Carrie Underwood, Dolly Parton, Meghan Trainor, and Jamie Cullum. 

Carrie Underwood: My Gift

This was the first new holiday album that made its way into my collection this year. Needless to say, I was eager to listen. Not only am I a huge fan of Carrie Underwood but her Christmas EP from 2008 is one of my most-listened to releases. Her voice is beautiful and so well suited to holiday songs. Unfortunately, My Gift fell a little flat for me. It's not that the album isn't good. However, it is a little sleepy at times. This is more of a sitting-in-front-of-the-fireplace-and-feeling-peaceful kind of album rather than something to listen to while you decorate, wrap presents, or search for a little Christmas cheer. I suppose the latter is better suited to my preferences! Though her voice sounds lovely and there are some solid song choices...My Gift is only okay.

Dolly Parton: A Holly Dolly Christmas

To sum it up in one word? Wow. Dolly Parton truly outdid herself with this holiday release. A Holly Dolly Christmas has a little bit of everything. There is heart, whimsy, and a Dolly-sized dose of fun. She has some unexpected duets with Michael Bublé and Jimmy Fallon that manage to shine. Plus, this album also covers a wide array of musical genres. Country, pop, folk, and everything in between! Shockingly, the different genres and duets don't make the album feel disjointed. It all comes together seamlessly. There is such a wonderful mixture of warm magical moments and holiday inspired joy. A Holly Dolly Christmas is a true blessing this season! I have listened to it over and over again. It is a genuine classic and there is no doubt that it is a standout in my Christmas music collection. Thank goodness for Dolly Parton. 

Meghan Trainor: A Very Trainor Christmas

Another new release comes from Meghan Trainor. I have been a fan of Meghan's since the release of her first music video (take a look at a blog post dedicated to her pretty pastel style here) and was excited to hear some Christmas music from her. Thankfully, the album did not disappoint. It has a wonderful amount of variety with an eclectic mix of original songs and old-school favourites. Though I love hearing her versions of those traditional songs...the original ones stand head and shoulders above the rest. She has such a distinct style and it works really well with Christmas music. Another note? The CD (because yes, I still buy physical CDs) has a pull out poster and the cutest holiday party themed photoshoot. All in all, this is a solid holiday album that feels fresh, fun, and exciting. Perfect to listen to during all of those special holiday moments. 

Jamie Cullum: The Pianoman at Christmas

Last on this list, is a Christmas album from Jamie Cullum. I am such a huge fan of his and have been fortunate enough to see him in concert several times over the years. It is always thrilling when he releases new material. The Pianoman at Christmas is classic Jamie. The album is overloaded with jazz inspired songs and heartfelt lyrics. It is certainly different to many of the other Christmas CDs in my collection...in a good way. (Take a peek at his latest music video, "Hang Your Lights," for a better idea of the overall sound and vibe.) The piano-based tracks will make you dance, swoon, and feel an indescribable sense of hope for humanity. There are many ballads on the album as well, like "Christmas Caught Me Crying." It takes a raw and deeply honest look at the complexities of navigating the holiday season as an adult. The Pianoman at Christmas is a truly inspiring release that is well-suited to both holiday fanatics and music-lovers. 

Have you heard any of these holiday albums? What have you been listening to lately?