Silent Night

Canadian songbird Anne Murray has always had success with her gentle, traditional approach to Christmas and holiday music, and "What a Wonderful Christmas" is no exception. The majority of the songs on this two-CD set are faithful Christmas chestnuts ("Joy to the World," "Away in a Manger," "O Holy Night," "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas"), with a few lesser-known, non-traditional numbers ("This Season Will Never Grow Old," "Christmas Wishes," "Sweet Little Jesus Boy"). All of the songs are delivered in a warm acoustic setting, with a handful featuring tasteful string and brass sections and a small backing choir. Anne Murray's music always seems most appropriate in the winter, and a collection of holiday songs fits that bill nicely. ~ Zac Johnson