In the music industry, Christmas albums are seen as an easy way for an artist to make some money. They take little preparation, require minimal studio time and end up raking in the dough. Below, find reviews for some of our new finds, classics we love and friendly holiday favorites we couldn’t enjoy the holidays without.

Absolutely adorable David Archuleta sings his heart out, but rather than showcasing his youthful, pop dynamic voice, he (and his father, Jeff, no doubt) opted for a more traditional feel on this album.

It’s great if you’d rather hear a Clay Aiken version of Archuleta, but not so good if you seriously wanna rock around the Christmas tree. Archuleta’s cool, smooth voice and easy range lend itself to so much more than this album showcases. Definitely a holiday album worth owning for an Archuleta fan, but if the listener understands Archuleta’s voice and watched him on ‘American Idol,’ it’s a missed opportunity to really have fun with the genre.

Purchase Christmas From The Heart

Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without the croons of Karen Carpenter and brother Richard, as their music was played constantly in the house while growing up. Karen’s alto is comforting and perfectly formed to sing holiday favorites such as ‘I’ll Be Home for Christmas’ and ‘Merry Christmas Darling.’

Richard showcases his prowess with impressive instrumentals, utilizing orchestra and bell choirs. Though their careers were short-lived with the tragic death of Karen, their holiday albums remain some of the industry’s top sellers as holiday music fans young and old recognize the timelessness of this dynamic duo.

Purchase Christmas Portrait

Six songs just isn’t enough to get the full holiday vibe from this girl. But when a listener hears what Taylor Swift puts into each and every song – the feeling, momentum and depth – maybe a Swift fan can forgive the length of album.

Swift takes tired, even stupid, songs and makes them her own, breathing life into the silly, by crooning ‘Santa Baby’ in a way that delights rather than annoys.

Her adaptation of ‘Away in a Manger’ is breathtaking and inspirational, giving new meaning to a song we’ve all heard thousands of times. A listener hears it with new ears, making it truly sink in and be enjoyed.

A special favorite is ‘Christmas Must Be Something More,’ were Swift not only shows off a little country twang, but rocks out, sending the message and vocal dynamics straight to the heart and soul.

This album truly is a holiday must-have.

Purchase The Taylor Swift Holiday Collection