Fans of Garth might possibly be disappointed in this album if they thought it was going to be a country CD. While it's not done ala "Gaines" it's not done likewise in the Garth-style that has endeared him to millions of fans.

Keep in mind that it was not Garth's intention to create a Sinatra-style Christmas CD. The project was part of a movie deal that Garth's production company, Red Strokes Entertainment was producing, which would star Whoopie Goldberg. The movie was based in New York City, thus the music is arranged in more of a big band style. The movie fell through, but since Garth had the album completed, he decided to release it for the holiday season. What follows are the tracks and my impressions of them.

It's The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year - When I first heard this, I thought that it didn't really sound like Garth. To me, it seems like he wasn't really into this song. Not sure how to explain it, but it's lacking some feeling.

Let It Snow - Well, if the first song was lacking feeling, he makes up with it on this song. I really like how he sings this.

The Christmas Song - This is one of my favorite Christmas songs. Again, the feeling is back. Beautiful arrangement.

White Christmas - This song was originally on Garth's Beyond the Season album, but it's been remixed for this album. Always one of my favorites from the previous album. If you associate this song with Bing Crosby, you'll need to put that thought aside. Garth sings this in a way that's his own.

Baby Jesus Is Born - The first time I heard this was when he sang it on Leno, and I didn't really care for it. I've never been big on gospel music. It didn't take long for me to change my mind about it, though. This one really rocks.

God Rest Ye Merry Gentleman - Another song carried over from Beyond the Season, and another favorite. Love the arrangement of this classic Christmas carol.

Winter Wonderland - You can see the snowflakes falling as you listen to Garth sing this wonderful song.

Sleigh Ride - This has always been a fun song to listen to, and Garth does this one so well. Lots of energy in this one.

Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas - Another wonderful arrangement, and Garth sounds so mellow with this tune.

(There's No Place Like) Home For The Holidays - This is another great arrangement. Very upbeat and fun to listen to.

Silver Bells - This is my all-time favorite Christmas carol, and I'm so glad that Garth included it on this album.

Go Tell It On The Mountain - This is the third song carried over from Beyond the Season. It's never been my favorite, and I would have rather seen a different song in its place.

The Wise Men's Journey - This is the second original song written for this album. Beautiful arrangement.

Oh Little Town Of Bethlehem - Love it. Garth sings this beautiful hymn wonderfully.

Purchase this, or Garth's other CDs or books from my Country Music Bookstore.

All graphics © Shel Fabian, except the album cover graphic, used with permission of Borders.com