, Jim Brickmans second collection of holiday-themed music, is largely a mirror image of his first (, released in 1997). Both feature a mix of solo piano works, augmented piano selections (involving oboe, strings, synthesizers, a pop-jazz ensemble, or some combination thereof) and glossy, radio-ready pop vocal productions. To some ears, the polished sheen of the vocal tracks (four are included) may infringe on the more contemplative mood of Brickmans instrumental tracks, the way a citys after-dark glow can seep into your view of a deep night skys canopy of stars. Still, as with , is an attractive mood-setter for the season. Brickmans best arrangements will resonate with a listeners introspective sensibilities. "Jingle Bells," "Away in a Manger," and "We Three Kings," for instance, all receive slow-building, reflective treatments that might prod you into pondering deeper meanings. A pair of nonholiday originals, "Early Snowfall" and "Blessings," achieve the same heart-nudging effect. As for the vocals, The Blind Boys of Alabama reinforce the finger-snapping, muted-trumpet, 40s-swing vibe of "Let It Snow;" Kristy Starling takes a sweetly romantic turn on "Sending You a Little Christmas;" and countrys Collin Raye (also featured on ) earnestly conveys the clear-eyed optimism of the title track.

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