From a soulful rendition of “Silent Night” to the rousing urban-gospel favorite “Jesus, Oh What a Wonderful Child,” reverent yuletide melodies comprise the heart and soul of this disc. Other familiar carols include “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing,” “Joy to the World” and “O Holy Night.” Carey co-wrote “Jesus Born on This Day,” which states, “He is our light and salvation . . . He is the King of all nations/Behold the Lamb of God has come . . . He is our Lord and Savior.” The freshly penned “Miss You Most” and “All I Want for Chistmas Is You” make the point that a commercialized holiday can’t take the place of being close to loved ones.
Some families may object to Carey’s “snow-bunny” liner photos.
It’s rare that a mainstream Christmas album captures the true meaning of the season. This one does, beautifully. Merry Christmas delivers wholesome lyrics and fun, upbeat melodies perfectly suited to Carey’s trademark, 4-octave vocal calisthenics. It’s one gift worth unwrapping early . . . and playing all year ’round!
