I didn't pick up George Strait's second Christmas outing until this year when it was consigned to the budget bin. I had ready too many negative reviews from the music experts. Well my faith has been restored and in fact I enjoy this outing better than "Merry Christmas Strait to You". The main reason? George's voice. On his first holiday release he hadn't yet developed his wonderful mature singing style - the relaxed sound and confident phrasing. He has turned into one of the most gifted vocalists in the business. He makes it sound effortless.

Also the material on this outing is for the most part superior to the songs on his first outing. "I Know What I Want for Christmas" is an easy going country-swing number that recalls his recent hit "Go On". "Old Time Christmas" and "Santa's On His Way" both recapture the sweet innocence of Christmas as viewed through the eyes of youth. Another reason I had steered clear of this outing was the inclusion of "All I Want for Christmas" - "uh oh" - but George presents it in a very straight forward "swing" style and it works beautifully. "Let It Snow" and "The Christmas Song" are both presented in warm arrangements and George's voice and phrasing are perfect. While there's nothing very special in the versions of "Jingle Bell Rock" and "Rudolph" presented here they are certainly listenable enough. The only track I could do without is "Noel Leon" which doesn't fit the with mood or feeling of the rest of the outing. It won't having jumping to hit the skip button but maybe another original or traditional cover might have been a better choice.

Still, all in all an excellent release from Strait and now, at budget price, a painless purchase.

All I can say is WOW!!! George has put another great CD out, in this case a christmas one. Christmas, "Where Ever You Are" is a song about a man who misses his woman who apparently left him at Christmas Time. The song "Old Time Christmas" will make your heart warm. Just think of the memories of past christmas celebrations. George brings a warmth to the Holidays with his second collection of Christmas Hits! You won't be dissappointed. A must buy! Thanks George.

If you want to enjoy just a hint of country music this Christmas, this album's for y'all. Just to hear one song on this recording is worth it!

George Strait effectively balances old chestnuts with some great new Christmas tunes (five tracks of each). The standout track is the Jimmy Dean-like recitation, "Noel Leon," about a man who leaves his Christmas lights up all year long and the community that rallies behind him. Almost as special are the nostalgic ballad "Old Time Christmas" and the wistful title track that provides just the right amount of longing.

In recent years, Strait has been called the Frank Sinatra of country music. Actually, his smooth, relaxed take on the enclosed modern classics like "The Christmas Song" and especially, the lush "Let It Snow, Let It Snow, Let It Snow" owe more to Dean Martin than Sinatra. It's hard to imagine even Martin at his most inebriated taking on "All I Want For Christmas (Is My Two Front Teeth)" but Strait pulls it off easily, sounding charmingly seductive to boot. Pick this CD up today and perk up your holidays.

I loved this album. This Christmas album is better than George's first one. This is a must have for any country music fan.