I have no desire to rank the best Christmas albums of all time, or anything like that. I rarely buy anything to listen to for Christmas because I would rather spend cash on stuff I can keep listening to after Christmas. But on occasion I find something that I must have for holiday enjoyment. Here are my personal favorites that I will be spinning through Christmas Day. These are in no particular order.
Behold the Lamb of God - Andrew Peterson
The best Christ-centered incarnation (notice I didn't say Christmas) album I've ever heard. "So Long, Moses" is fantastic (history of redemption) as is "Labor of Love" (perspective of Mary).
From "So Long Moses"
He'll bear no beauty or glory
Rejected, despised
A man of such sorrow
We'll cover our eyesHe'll take up our sickness
Carry our tears
For his people
He will be piercedHe'll be crushed for our evils
Our punishment feel
By his wounds
We will be healed.From you, O Bethlehem
Small among Judah
A ruler will come
Ancient and strong.
The Andy Williams Christmas Album - Andy Williams
My favorite "old school" Christmas album. It was the staple in my home as a kid. Great holiday favorites mixed with Christmas hymns. Also a few unique pieces like a very interesting version of "Jingle Bells."
Another good Christ-centered album. It's very hard to beat these harmonies from a creative trio. "Rose of Bethlehem" is my personal favorite from this album, but my wife really digs "Mystery" which is one singer standing in awe of the incarnation and the love of God. Their version of "O Come, O Come Emmanuel" (my favorite Christmas hymn) presents a profound sense of longing and crying out.
When My Heart Finds Christmas - Harry Connick, Jr.
He has a newer Christmas album out, but this one is his best IMHO. Part of the reason is the incredible title track "When My Heart Finds Christmas." This album is at times beautiful, other times it's fun. A family favorite every year and probably the best all-around Christmas album.
A Romantic Christmas - John Tesh
Everyone loves to make fun of John Tesh and make fun of the people who like John Tesh. I have two of his albums, both instrumental, and they are fantastic. Winter Song is one of my favorite soft classical albums. Great for reading, studying, getting cozy and all that. But for Christmas it's A Romantic Christmas. There is no better music for late nights in mid December, sipping mocha by the fireplace with your hot wife, and then making out later. If you aren't married yet, hurry up so you can make out to this stuff. It's really good.
