Jo Dee demonstrates that she can sing with restraint as she works her way through a succession of classic Christmas songs. Only towards the end of the set does she loosen up, but even then she does not use the full power of her voice, which is on her other albums. After all the classics, the album ends with two excellent original songs.

Jo Dee's die-hard fans will accept this change of style as a contrast to her other albums, as will those (like me) with eclectic tastes. If you are looking for a contemporary country Christmas album, this is not it. Likewise, Jo Dee's less committed fans may hesitate. If in doubt, you might be wise to listen to some of it before buying. I thought long and hard before buying this but I'm very glad I did.


A voice made for caroling...   November 17, 2002
K. Stuckey (Port Huron, MI USA)
4 out of 4 found this review helpful

I know it's still kind of early yet, but Jo Dee's (finally!) holiday CD has got me in the spirit. The only thing more exciting than the CD is her upcoming Christmas tour!

Jo Dee seems to stretch out her voice more than usual and at the same time, it is soft (most noticeable on "I'll Be Home For Christmas"). "Sleigh Ride" is playful and upbeat, and her version of "Let it Snow" is trademark Jo Dee sassy, especially cute on both is the pause...then giggle at the end. Another very cool thing is the children used as background singers on "Winter Wonderland". Slightly more experienced background singers join Jo Dee on "What Child is This" (Kenny Rogers) and "Silver Bells" (Vince Gill)

"Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" gives me chills when I hear it, it is just Jo Dee and a piano - it is very touching in its simplicity. Jo Dee co-wrote "Keep the Faith" in her usual style of rising above hardships - it is the best song on the CD! Also original is the title track, about the hope of the season.

Masterfully produced with always wonderful work by the Nashville String Machine, Jo Dee's holiday CD is heads above the others. Her personal story and the pictures in the liner notes make this truly a must-have!


New Twist on Old Classics   November 25, 2002
J. Bouvier (Northeast)
2 out of 2 found this review helpful

Jo Dee Messina has outdone herself once more. Not only did she co-produce this nostalgic collection, she recorded it LIVE in the studio and rises to the occassion in her usual fashion. All of these timeless classics take on a whole new meaning and sound when Jo Dee sings them for us; with feeling and warmth. She's a real pro and proves it to us on this cd. You'll be able to see why people go in droves to see her perform live...it's what she was born to do.


Good mix of old and new!   January 22, 2004
Russ on the Bus (MO United States)
1 out of 1 found this review helpful

This CD is really nice at Christmas time. The songs give you a nice feeling since they are new and fresh but grounded in a traditional style. Jo Dee's voice is beautiful and strong - truly a joyful noise.


New Twist on Old Classics   November 25, 2002
J. Bouvier (Northeast)
1 out of 1 found this review helpful

Jo Dee Messina has outdone herself once more. Not only did she co-produce this nostalgic collection, she recorded it LIVE in the studio and rises to the occassion in her usual fashion. All of these timeless classics take on a whole new meaning and sound when Jo Dee sings them for us; with feeling and warmth. She's a real pro and proves it to us on this cd. You'll be able to see why people go in droves to see her perform live...it's what she was born to do.