New Christmas Music for 2009

Family-friendly Christmas

By Bethany Porter and Laura Young

Kidz Bop (Various Artists) 
Kidz Bop Christmas

Image courtesy of Razor and Tie

A group of youngsters lend their voices to upbeat Christmas classics such as "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer," and "Jingle Bell Rock" and new tunes like "Go Christmas." This super kid-friendly album will have your little ones rocking around the tree in no time.

What does it sound like? Sugary sweet pop sounds and wholesome tunes pack this cheerful holiday album. With its easy melodies and list of old favorites, kids (and grown-ups) will love to sing and dance along.

Perfect for playing: while doing holiday crafts with the kids.

Standout tracks: "Go Christmas,"  "Santa Claus is Coming to Town," featuring Sinai Rose

Dora the Explorer
Dora's Christmas

If your little-ones love Dora they'll adore this fun Christmas CD that doubles as an interactive CD-ROM complete with games and activities. There are even tracks from the new DVD, Dora's Christmas Carol Adventure.

What does it sound like? All your kids' favorite Dora characters sing these bright, bouncy holiday songs. The melodies are easy to follow and fun to sing along with. Dora adds her native Spanish to several of the songs so kids will learn as they listen and sing.

Perfect for playing: in the car on a trip to visit friends and family or while making sugar cookies with all your little adventurers.

Standout tracks: "Deck the Halls," "Nochebuena"

Connie Talbot
Connie Talbot's Holiday Magic

Image courtesy of AAO Music

After winning the hearts of countless viewers on the reality competition Britain's Got Talent at age 7 and even impressing notoriously stodgy judge, Simon Cowell, Connie Talbot (now 9-years-old) is sharing her talents across the pond by releasing a holiday album in the US.

What does is sound like? While Talbot is certainly talented, her voice seems a bit strained throughout the album. One wonders why many of the sophisticated songs on the CD were chosen for a little girl to sing. Talbot does put forth her best effort; loyal fans and children will certainly enjoy listening.

Perfect for playing: while opening gifts.

Standout tracks: "When a Child is Born," "Do You Hear What I Hear?"

David Archuleta
Christmas from the Heart

David Archuleta, pop sensation and fan favorite from Fox's hit reality competition show American Idol, has cut his very own Christmas album, delivering thirteen holiday classics. Tracks range from classic favorites such as "Silent Night" and "The First Noel" to more unique songs including the Spanish favorite, "Riu Riu Chiu."

What does it sound like? Archuleta charms with his sweet, angelic  voice. You'll hear the same swoon-inducing crooning that made him a favorite on American Idol. This is a family-friendly album with mostly slow, melodic tracks. The album is also dedicated largely to traditionally religious songs. Listen for tracks like "Joy to the World" in which Archuleta really lets his soaring voice shine.

Perfect for playing: while preparing Christmas morning breakfast.

Standout tracks: "Joy to the World," "Riu Riu Chiu," and "Ave Maria"

Go on to the next page to discover how some wonderful classic Christmas songs have been reinvented.

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