Christmas is a time of celebration and remembering the birth of a baby boy who was destined to be the Savior of the world. What better way to celebrate this event than through music? If what you are looking for this season are traditional songs performed in a non-traditional way, then look no further. This year, many of your favorite artists are making music that merge classic holiday songs with modern musical styles for some truly spectacular renditions. These CDs take listeners on a musical odyssey that reflects the diversity, artistry and talents of today's contemporary Christian music artists, who are making holiday music that rivals their mainstream counterparts.

WOW Christmas

WOW Christmas begins with a bang, as Avalon sings their high-energy swing, jazz, big band rendition of "Winter Wonderland." The vibrant trumpets and pounding bass and drum rhythms will tempt listeners to grab a swing partner and head for the dance floor. This 30-song CD is certain to appeal to listeners who enjoy a variety of musical styles.

WOW Christmas includes renowned artists such as Third Day, Steven Curtis Chapman, TobyMac, MercyMe, Kirk Franklin, Point of Grace, Audio Adrenaline, Out Of Eden and Mark Schultz. The artists outdo themselves with outstanding vocals and amazing musical arrangements that cover the gamut of musical genres: blues, rock, pop, jazz and more.

This CD has more than its share of unique performances of time-honored Christmas classics, which makes for a distinctive album. But by far, Audio Adrenaline's rendition of the "Little Drummer Boy" stands out as the most stylistically different track in the entire collection. While the song communicates an amazing message of both the humility and honor of Jesus' birth, the band's less than traditional rendering is vaguely reminiscent of The Kinks/Van Halen's rock classic "You Really Got Me." If listeners are partial to screaming guitars and an addictive beat, then this song will be a smash.

For those with a penchant for gospel, jazz or R&B, WOW Christmas offers up a few selections from artists such as Yolanda Adams, Donnie McClurkin, Stacie Orrico and even a compelling rap from TobyMac titled, "This Christmas."

TobyMac relays a timeless message - remember the world's forgotten and fatherless children during this holiday season.

WOW Christmas is a great collection of classic and new holiday songs that listeners can enjoy for years to come.

Nicole C. Mullen

No ordinary Christmas album, Nicole C. Mullen's Christmas In Black And White is truly an eclectic marriage of classical, jazz, hip-hop, gospel, Latin and Caribbean musical styles that reflect the diversity she embraces in every area of her life.