Christmas Classic

Christmas probably sounded a lot like this in Hoboken, circa the late 1930s: A skinny kid with a huge voice leading friends through favorite carols like "The Little Drummer Boy" and "Greensleeves." Fast forward and that skinny kid is no longer just another voice in the crowd. All ears are turned his way as he croons through a whole new set of Christmas standards, from "The Christmas Waltz" to "I Wouldn't Trade Christmas." Sinatra is in fine voice on this 13-song set, which boasts some of the better arrangements you'll hear on a seasonal album.

Michelle David & The Gospel Sessions, who kept us going during the lockdown with their Sunday Service concert series, are coming out with a Christmas album. It's A Soulful Christmas – out on December 4 – not only offers consolation, but especially cosiness for Christmas. That happens with soul, gospel and pop in various shades. In doing so, a bridge is built between the Christian Christmas with the birth of Jesus and the American interpretation of it with Santa Claus and presents under the tree. Everything contributes to an ultimate Christmas experience. Or as Michelle puts it: “It's a record that takes you through the Christmas season and beyond with a lot of soul.”