Featuring artists of the Inspirational Music Showcase, this aptly titled CD is a collection of Christ-centered songs that capture both the wonder and the promise of the Nativity. From Barry Hansen's respectful "O Holy Night," through Michael Dowdle's soft instrumental "First Noel," to Jessie Clark Funk's passionate "Joy to the World," and on to the final "Silent Night," delivered with feeling by Joy Gardner, Dave Tinney and Tanya Barkdull, the feeling is one of reverence and joy. In addition to traditional carols, original songs such as "Gentle Jesus," "No Greater Story" and "Hosanna, to God," add to the beautiful message of hope. A narration of Luke 2:19, accompanied by soft music, is a nice added touch. It's a beautiful contribution to the sounds of the season. — C.W.

VARIOUS ARTISTS; "Polar Express Original Motion Picture Soundtrack" (Warner Sunset/Reprise)

While the box office showed less than expected returns for "The Polar Express," the soundtrack may recoup some cash flow. Star Tom Hanks livens things up with his nasal delivery on the title track and throughout the soundtrack. Aerosmith's Steven Tyler sasses around with "Rockin' on Top of the World" and Josh Groban hits the heartstrings with "Believe." Nostalgia flows freely with the reprise of "Santa Claus Is Comin' to Town" by Ol' Blue Eyes Frank Sinatra and the classic "White Christmas" by his friend Bing Crosby. Other favorites include Kate Smith's "Silver Bells," Crosby and the Andrews Sisters' "Here Comes Santa Claus (Right Down Santa Claus Lane)" and Perry Como and the Fontane Sisters' redition of "It's Beginning to Look Like Christmas." — S.I.

VARIOUS ARTISTS; "Reggae Pulse: Christmas Songs" (Trojan/Sancturary)

The Rastafarians know how to celebrate. This jammin' collection gives an island groove to classic Christmas songs. John Holt's "White Christmas," Freddie McGregor's "O Come All Ye Faithful" and Yelloman's "We Wish You a Merry Christmas" bring sunny takes to these holiday staples. And the head-bobbing arrangement of Culture's "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" will have the party up and going. — S.I.

VARIOUS ARTISTS; "The Soulful Sounds of Christmas" (Rhino)

This collection of soft and mellow songs from the likes of En Vogue, Boyz II Men, Whitney Houston and BeBe and CeCe Winans mostly makes you want to hunker down in front of a fireplace and enjoy the peace of the season. Traditional titles ("O Holy Night," "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer," "O Little Town of Bethlemen") are mixed with seasonal songs ("This Christmas," "Snowy Night"), but each artist makes the song his or her own. All previously released, they combine well here. The gospelesque "Lamb of God" adds a jubilant finishing flourish. — C.W.

VARIOUS ARTISTS; "Under the Misletoe" (Shout Factory)