Peter Durward Harris | Leicester England | 10/22/2003
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Tammy is the kind of singer that most people have definite views about, one way or the other. This collection will not change anybody's mind, although the mood of the songs on the album is much happier than many of her hit songs. This album has been re-issued several times, varying between ten and twelve tracks. Gentle shepherd and Lonely Christmas call seem to be the tracks that are sometimes omitted. Even without those two, this is still brilliant.Many of the songs will be familiar to you, but you could never mistake Tammy's distinctive versions of them for anybody else's. Blue Christmas reminds us that Tammy is good at singing the sad songs, but elsewhere the mood varies between contentment and outright happiness. The songs cover both the spiritual and the festive aspects of Christmas. I was surprised that no children's songs were included, as I know that Tammy enjoyed singing about and for them (Bedtime story and Kids say the darndest things are two of her classic songs). Despite the absence of Santa, sleighs and reindeer, this is still a great album.If, like me, you love Tammy's music, you will love this album. If not, look elsewhere."
One of Tammy's Best Efforts
James E. Bagley | Sanatoga, PA USA | 11/21/2003
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This album was initially recorded in 1970 when Tammy Wynette was at the peak of her vocal powers. The ten track set is divided into two parts, the first half of which is comprised of hymns like "Silent Night" and "Joy To The World." The second half is far more interesting (and color coded) with modern holiday classics like "Blue Christmas" and "White Christmas" joined by the Carmen Taylor originals "One Happy Christmas" and "Let's Put Christ Back In Christmas." Best of all is "(Merry Christmas) We Must Be Having One," the definitive Tammy carol, as her tearful voice turns the routine festivitites into an ultra-emotional occasion. There have been a number of Wynette reissues released since her death, but this is easily the most moving. It should never have fallen out of print."
Tammy Shines in Thoughtful Christmas Album
"Tee" | LA | 11/02/2005
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This is Tammy Wynette's one and only Christmas album and it was recorded when she was at her peak in 1970. The album is quite unusual among country music Christmas discs which tend to be on the chirpy side and loaded with songs of the Rudolph and Jingle Bells variety. Tammy's collection is almost entirely a group of sober, thoughtful songs about the true meaning of Christmas (appropiately ending with a song called "Let's Put Christ Back into Christmas".) This is not a CD for riding around with the family and having a sing along but one to sit back and really listen to and think about the true meaning of Christmas. It's a gift from Tammy that will never grow old."
One of the Best Ever
Jeff Traintime | Burbank, CA United States | 12/19/2002
(5 out of 5 stars)
"In a collection of over 100 Christmas albums, this is one of just 4 albums I play EVERY year, as I have for 30 years now. As the concept of the "Christmas Album" reaches supreme boredom with everyone recording the same 10 songs over and over, this is a truly unique recording. Tammy can even make Blue Christmas sound new with her amazing delivery.
As the other reviewers have correctly stated, it all boils down to the sincere feeling Tammy put into every word. An added astonishment is that she fearlessly avoided the bland and politically correct by using a number of songs with traditional Christian sources, and in a contemporary song dares to suggest we put "Christ back into Christmas."
Thirty years and I still can't get over this recording.
(In case you wondered, the other 3 annual treats are by the Beach Boys, The Roches and King's College Choir)"
An Angel Sings!
Jeff Traintime | 12/05/1998
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Tammy Wynette brings her heartfelt voice to these Christmas favourites. A perfect choice of songs for her voice, this cd is perfect for anyone looking for a classic collection of holiday songs straight from the heart. This CD will be an annual favourite in my home!. 10 great tracks but the outstanding performances are "Blue Christmas" and "Let's Put Christmas Back Into Christmas" A Five Star recording and beautifully re-packaged by Sony Music."