Clear-tone vocalist Reta Watkins keeps the songs and feel traditional on this Christmas album, also including a pair of impressive originals. Of the latter, the team of Jeremy Johnson and Paul Marino deliver deeply thoughtful and celebrative pieces “Behold Emmanuel” and “Christmas in Heaven” which fit well in any stocking stuffer.
Watkins sounds cozy with the Nelson Riddle-style arrangements on pieces like “I’ve Got My Love To Keep Me Warm” and “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year.” Her voice glistens like the star on top of the tree on “Mary Did You Know” and is as inviting as mistletoe on “Sleigh Ride.” Nice mix of old and new!