Grammy-nominated pop group 98 Degrees released their new Christmas album “Let It Snow” on October 20 via UMe, and it is utterly fantastic.
Their holiday album opens with the upbeat and cheery “What Christmas Means To Me,” and it is followed by their heart-warming rendition of “Please Come Home For Christmas,” which features their spot-on harmonies.
Equally fun is “Run Rudolph Run,” which instantly puts the listener in the holiday party mood. After their sultry version of “Let It Snow,” it continues with their original holiday tune “Season of Love,” which is destined to be a holiday classic of their own someday.
Their rendition of “What Child Is This” is glorious and divine, and one of the highlight tracks on the collection is their stellar version of “The First Noel.”
The CD also offers a bold and brave take on “Mary, Did You Know?” and their tender version of “O Little Town Of Bethlehem” is controlled and soothing. They pick up the pace with the jubilant “Little Saint Nick,” while they display their wide range as artists on “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas.”
Joni Mitchell would be smiling upon their ethereal version of “River,” where their vocals are simply too good to be mortal. It closes with a piano-driven cover of “Away in a Manger,” and on a subtle note with “Silent Night,” which they sing beautifully.
The Verdict
Overall, this journalist has been fortune enough to review many Christmas albums over the years, but this is perhaps one of the most compelling holiday albums yet. From start to finish, 98 Degrees have done an amazing job on this musical effort, which makes it difficult to select a personal favorite holiday recording. Nick Lachey, Jeff TImmons, Justin Jeffre and Drew Lachey have outdone themselves as vocalists once again. Congratulations gentlemen. Let It Snow garners five out of five stars.