BOB DYLAN, CHRISTMAS IN THE HEART
With his grizzled delivery, Dylan brings a grinchy edge to all the warm-and-fuzziness that the season usually offers. Despite the '50s nostalgia, Pat Boone he's not.
MARY MCBRIDE, EVERY DAY IS A HOLIDAY
The singer-songwriter mixes traditionals with less obvious covers as well as two originals, including the fun, flirty "Bring It On."
SUGARLAND, GOLD AND GREEN
The country duo put a new shine on old gems like "Winterland Wonderland" and serve up five originals, including the title track (nicely sprinkled with a bit of "The First Noel").
ANDREA BOCELLI, MY CHRISTMAS
On his first holiday album, the tenor aims for the heavens—or at least the cathedral steeple—with his majestic voice. Joining are Mary J. Blige, Natalie Cole, Reba McEntire and the Mormon Tabernacle Choir (on "The Lord's Prayer").
A VERY SPECIAL CHRISTMAS 7
Some of the artists featured on this compilation—including Miley Cyrus, Vanessa Hudgens and Sean Kingston—weren't even born when the series benefitting the Special Olympics began 22 years ago. Ouch!
DAVID ARCHULETA, CHRISTMAS FROM THE HEART
Last year's American Idol runner-up delivers a winning set of yuletide faves such as "What Child Is This." It's all as impossible to resist as those dimples.
NEIL DIAMOND, A CHERRY CHERRY CHRISTMAS
Diamond keeps it kitschy on this collection, with playful turns on chestnuts like "Sleigh Ride" and "Jingle Bell Rock." But originals such as "Christmas Dream" lack sparkle.
STRAIGHT NO CHASER, CHRISTMAS CHEERS
With their potent vocals, this 10-man a cappella outfit gives you plenty of reason to raise a glass of eggnog.
TORI AMOS, MIDWINTER GRACES
Amos, who grew up playing Christmas music in her minister father's church, gifts this set with her ethereal presence on classics like "Star of Wonder" and "Emmanuel," in addition to new songs like the torchy "Pink and Glitter."
