Music Review: Alabama – ‘The Classic Christmas Album’

Alabama and Christmas were made for each other. Randy Owens’ warm, comfortable voice and the effortless harmonies of the other members of the group let this music wrap around the listener like a warm blanket on a snowy day. The group conveys sincerity and true holiday feeling in these seasonal songs.

For many of us here in the South, “Christmas in Dixie” is the perfect embodiment of everything we love about the holiday. This reviewer readily admits that it is an all-time favorite, one of those songs that signal the season is really here. “Tennessee Christmas” is another. They paint the picture of people gathering together to share love and laughter. Even if you’re not in Tennessee or in the South, you can be in your heart when you listen to Alabama sing.

This album is perfect for the whole family, with its images of Santa Claus and firelight, candles and stockings. The band interjects a bit of rockabilly from time to time too, especially in the Elvis-like “Night Before Christmas.”  They celebrate the sort of romance that lasts throughout the years with songs like “Hanging Around the Mistletoe” and “Christmas in Your Arms.” It’s all about family and love and the things that make holiday memories through the years.

The simple secular joys of Christmas are represented. So are the spiritual joys in songs like “Angels Among Us” and “The Blessings.” The traditional Christmas story inspires “Joseph and Mary’s Boy,” as well as the standards “O Little Town of Bethlehem,” “Silent Night,” and “Little Drummer Boy.” These songs remind us that Jesus, Mary, and Joseph were country people, too.

There is nothing fancy here in the vocals or the arrangements. But there is plenty of love and warmth and all of the things that those who celebrate the holiday want Christmas to be, wherever you are. This is perfect music for sitting by the fire, sipping eggnog or wrapping presents by the light of the tree.

It’s easy to see why Alabama has had a place in the heart of country music lovers for years. When the band sings “Merry Christmas to You,” you believe they mean it.

So whether you are already full of the Christmas spirit or you need a little encouragement to embrace the season, Alabama’s Classic Christmas Album will fill your heart and enhance your enjoyment and anticipation throughout this holiday and many to come.