I was driving along two days ago, turned on KOSI 101.1, and "Christmas Shoes" by Newsong was playing. This was wrong on so many levels. First of all, it isn't even Thanksgiving yet, and Christmas music is playing. There is no need for further explanation on that one. Second, it irritated me that the first Christmas song I heard of the season was one that makes my eyes sweat profusely every time. And also, as much as the classic Christmas songs warm everyone's hearts, the same playlist time and time again isn't exactly keeping things interesting. So to help y'all out in getting your Christmas shopping done early (as we all say we are going to do and then see each other at the mall on December 23rd with deer in the headlights expressions on our faces), here are 16 new Christmas albums coming out in 2016 that feature new Christmas songs, along with spins and twists on the classics.
1. A Pentatonix Christmas - Pentatonix. We have all seen the viral music video for Pentatonix's rendition of "Hallelujah." If you want a little heaven on earth, I suggest you buy this CD and play track #8.
2. A Christmas Together - Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood. I would buy this CD just cause of the cover. I mean, LOOK AT THEM! #goals
3. 'Tis the Season - Jordan Smith. Jordan Smith is a true tenor if I've ever heard one. He sings O'Holy Night on this album with the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, so if that interests you, there isn't anyone holding you back.
4. A Hollens Family Christmas - Peter Hollens. This guy is insanely talented. Not even Mary knows how he puts it all together. Multiple voices. One person.
5. These Christmas Lights - Matt Redman. Matt Redman partners up with Chris Tomlin, Natasha Bedingfield, and Tasha Cobbs on his new album.
6. The Spirit of the Season - Voctave. Another video that went viral: Voctave's rendition of "Mary Did You Know?" sung with original songwriter Mark Lowry. Do yourself a favor and go look it up on YouTube if you haven't already.
7. It Must Be Christmas - Chris Young. The title track off this album is gold. And BONUS: the album features Alan Jackson, Brad Paisley, and Boyz II Men.
8. The Greatest Gift of All - Rascal Flatts. Give yourself one of the greatest gifts this Christmas and go listen to Rascal Flatts sing "A Strange Way to Save The World." Now.
9. I'll Have Another...Christmas Album - Straight No Chaser. You know the "12 Days of Christmas" they play on the radio constantly? They're back at it.
10. Tennessee Christmas - Amy Grant. Amy Grant changed our lives with her previous two Christmas albums. And after 14 years, it's about time Amy graced us with another one.
11. Unto Us - A Christmas Collection - Matthew West. Track #8, "The Heart of Christmas" is amazing--the perfect reminder in this crazy world.
12. Christmas Music: Relaxing Instrumental Christmas Piano Music and Holiday Music - Piano Guys. If you don't like instrumental music, you will after listening to these "Guys." Quality music. And great for playing in the background at Christmas parties.
13. Simply Christmas - Leslie Odom, Jr. As much as it pains me to endorse Leslie Odom, Jr. after the big Hamilton fiasco, I could listen to his voice all day. So if I can put my political differences aside to enjoy his angelic voice, trust me, so can you.
14. 'Tis the SeaSon - Jimmy Buffett. I see what you did there, Jimmy.
15. Glow - Brett Eldredge. Except for the title track, all the songs are classics, but Brett has to get his Christmas album in at some point, right? And he does include Meghan Trainor on one track, which may cause you to run in the opposite direction--I don't know.
16. To Celebrate Christmas - Jennifer Nettles. Right after you watch her host CMA Country Christmas (Monday, November 28th), take a seat on the couch next to the fire and listen to her new Christmas album. Definitely a keeper.
Happy listening, and a very Merry Christmas!
