Deseret News looks at new Christmas CDs this season

Here's a look at new Christmas CDs this season:

DANNY ALDERMAN, YOSI AND KEVIN KAMMERAAD; "... And a Happy New Year" (Kids at Our House)

Award-winning children's music artist Danny Adlermann has joined forces with Yosi and Kevin Kammeraad for this little CD that is composed of low-key, rock-and-folk holiday originals such as "Christmas on the Block," "Wintertime Is Here" and "I'm Spending Hanukkah in Santa Monica" and remakes of some classics, such as a clap-along version "Deck the Halls," a rocking take on "Frosty the Snowman," funny reworking of "Twelve Days of Christmas," which is newly named "A Pickle for Christmas," and a participatory version of "We Wish You a Merry Christmas," which is named after the CD's title track. This is fun for the whole family, without patronizing the adult listeners — Scott Iwasaki

DAVID ARCHULETA; "Christmas From the Heart" (Jive/19)

Recording this CD was a good move for Murray's own David Archuleta. The "American Idol" runner-up has not only guaranteed CD sales with this 13-track disc, but he's also given his non-Utah fans a taste of Utah talent. Kurt Bestor, Sam Cardon and Emanuel Kiriakou have all produced songs on this CD. While the songs are strong musically, Archuleta's voice sounds a bit tentative. It may be the fact that most of the songs — including "Joy to the World," "Angels We have Heard On High" and "Silent Night" — are slow and mellow, because when Archuleta picks up the tempo on "Pat-a-pan," the energy picks up as well. Still, fans will love this no matter what. — S.I.

DAVID ARKENSTONE; "Christmas Lounge" (Green Hill)

Contemporary instrumentalist David Arkenstone, famous for his sweeping epic New Age works in the '80s and '90s has found another niche — chill music. This electronic-based Christmas CD is the perfect disc to slip in after a long day. "Angels We Have Heard on High," "O Come All Ye Faithful" and lazy, flowing version of "Carol of the Bells" take new forms with the drifting chill-out lounge sound. — S.I.

JORDAN BLUTH; "Still" (Jumbo).

A popular star of local musical theater and opera, Jordan Bluth has a rich, melodic voice that serves him well on this selection of Christmas songs. Elegant arrangements and full orchestration adds to the enjoyment of such favorites as "Good Christian Men Rejoice," "The First Noel," "Sweet Little Jesus Boy" as well as several selections from Michael McLean's "The Forgotten Carols." One for the keeper shelf. — Carma Wadley

ANDREA BOCELLI, "My Christmas' (Decca).