Released: October 25, 2013

By: Kelly Clarkson

Mixing classics with a few original songs, Kelly Clarkson releases arguably the best Christmas albums from the past few years.

The album features the Billboard hit “Underneath the Tree,” which is co-written along with the other new songs by Clarkson herself. The song is fresh, upbeat and will surely be among the ranks of Mariah Carey’s “All I Want For Christmas Is You” for contemporary holiday classics.

However, several of the songs are about longing for the one you love at Christmas and bring down the energy of the album. Regardless, her vocals are still stellar on these cuts.

Clarkson also employs some country music greats to sing with her. Ronnie Dunn compliments her well on “Baby It’s Cold Outside” and Reba McEntire and Trisha Yearwood harmonize beautifully on “Silent Night.”

Final say: Stunning despite a few sad songs. ★★★★☆