Aaron Tippin

A December to Remember

Brilliant traditional country Christmas album

Review Score:

(10/10)
Aaron has a baritone voice that at times sounds a bit like Charley Pride, but Aaron's voice is gritty whereas Charley's is smooth. On this set, Aaron combines a well-chosen selection of standards with new songs of his own. The new songs were co-written with his wife Thea, who also sings on some of the tracks.

I've not heard her sing except on this album but she has a lovely voice, which is particularly effective on Away in a manger. This is sung as a duet in which both Aaron and Thea sing some lines solo, while singing together on other lines. When you've heard as many renditions of this song as I have, it's great to hear something a little different like this.

Aside from Away in a manger, the other standards here are Jingle bell rock, Run Rudolph run, Blue Christmas and Silent night. The first three are particularly well suited to Aaron's style, while Silent night provides another chance for Thea, this time singing harmony to Aaron's lead vocals.

The original songs cover a range of themes. He said that he was Jesus is about a homeless person. It's a good thing Santa ain't single is an amusing song about a man reassuring himself that Santa won't tempt his partner a way. Christmas is the warmest time of the year is an uplifting song of love. The year that Santa never came is another amusing song about a time when a substitute had to be found to ride the sleigh. Things get sadder with It's way too close to Christmas to be this far from home, but not for long. My favorite original song here, Mama's getting ready for Christmas, takes an amusing look at putting up the decorations. The final original song, A December to remember, is another masterpiece and it provides another opportunity for you to hear Thea singing with Aaron.

A combination of well-chosen covers and brilliant original songs ensured that this album far exceeded my expectations. If you enjoy traditional country music with a slight bluesy flavor, this is just what you are looking for.

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