With a mind-boggling number of Christmas albums facing consumers as they enter the record shops each season, choosing a disc to help muster a bit of holiday magic can be a daunting task. Luckily, for those Christmas shoppers who want a fuss-free collection of classics appropriate for cuddling up with a fireside flagon of hot buttered rum, Time-Life Music has released LIFETIME OF ROMANCE CHRISTMAS.
Though the biggest selling point is the inclusion of Nat "King" Cole's hit version of Mel Torme's "The Christmas Song (Merry Christmas to You)," the rest of the disc is wall-to-wall Noel-themed standards performed by other vocal legends. Highlights include Doris Day's exquisitely relaxed, sensual reading of "Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!" and Bing Crosby's "I'll Be Home for Christmas," which features a sweeping string arrangement and gently picked guitar. An extremely enjoyable collection that celebrates the more intimate side of the holidays, LIFETIME OF ROMANCE CHRISTMAS is a sure-fire way to set the proper mood for a bout of Yuletide coziness.