Deana Carter - Father Christmas

This holiday album manages to be great despite itself -- one of Deana Carter's strengths is her songwriting; this is a collection largely of standards. Even though it adds a kind of fireside charm, the guitar accompaniment, provided by her father, Fred Carter, Jr., seems ham-handed and often off-tempo. The only thing about the album that isn't flawed is her voice. Subtle and sweet, she charms throughout and sets a gentle, soothing tone that is perfect for a wintry evening. Carter has also managed to present a holiday album that manages to exude a down-home country style without resorting to stereotypical twanginess and fiddles. Read More