Randy Travis

This album's title suggests that Randy Travis busted out the mandolins and banjos to sing Christmas hymns with an Appalachian flavor. More old fashioned than old timey, Travis gives these classic carols the new traditional treatment, turning "Winter Wonderland" into a twangy two-stepper. While the soulfully sung "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen" is the proverbial star on top of the tree, "How Do I Wrap My Heart For Christmas" (the only original here, co written with Paul Overstreet) is a holiday honky-tonk hit that would well accompany a Christmas t-bone steak and shot of holiday hooch.