Reviewed by Tony Cummings

Russ is, in my book, one of Christendom's GREAT vocalists and down the years he's recorded his share of classics. But, in truth, he's also released some stinkers. Maybe it's his sheer versatility which is the problem. Over the years Russ has sung southern gospel, R&B-tinged pop, country and rock. Now for the second time in his long career the veteran turns to Yuletide oldies. Just like its predecessor 1992's 'A Christmas Song' it was produced by his long time associate, the superb guitarist James Hollihan and, like its predecessor, it's got as many secular Christmas ditties as songs about the wondrous events in a Bethlehem stable. So here Russ runs through "Winter Wonderland", "The Christmas Song" and "Jingle Bells" alongside "Silent Night" and "Go Tell It On The Mountain". Producer Hollihan works hard trying to come up with an interesting arrangement for the jazzed-up "Jingle Bells" but, in truth, when you have Russ' raw and soulful tones emoting such lines as "Jack Frost nipping at your toes" the effect is highly surreal. All in all, an album that shouldn't be on anyone's Christmas list.

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