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- Light One Candle-Yale University Out Of The Blue (Peter, Paul & Mary's live version, with its conviction and urgency, remains the definitive rendition for me. Still, hearing "Light One Candle" with fewer backing vocalists acknowledges the suffering and the deceased more plaintively.)
- Consequence Of Love-Gregory Porter (Porter's rich, heartfelt vocals make this one of the highlights of last year's "Take Me To The Alley" release. The title track is also one of the CD's highlights.)
- The Christmas Song-The Manhattan Transfer (I mean it as a compliment when I say this is a sleepy, warm blanket of a vocal arrangement.)
- Frosty The Snowman-Marcus Roberts Trio (One of the strongest versions I've heard; the bounce Roberts gives it makes it ideal for a piano instrumental.)
- Flipside-Norah Jones (It's gripping to hear Jones sing and play with this much force. Other standouts from 2016's "Day Breaks" release: "Peace" and "It's A Wonderful Time For Love," which would segue with Van Morrison's "Moondance.")
- Deck The Halls With Boughs Of Holly-Percy Faith and his orchestra (One of the better, statelier orchestral renditions. The consistency throughout Faith's "Music Of Christmas" album makes it an ideal Christmas morning accompaniment. Also recommended: "Joy To The World," as the orchestra captures the carol's triumphant nature perfectly.)
- Sleigh Ride-Andy Williams (The sleigh bells, lead and backing vocals make this an appropriately carefree, spirited rendition.)
- Hark! The Herald Angels Sing-Amy Grant (One of the most endearing versions of this carol that captures your ear with Grant singing a cappella, at first, and other voices lending support in good measure.)
- What Christmas Means To Me-Stevie Wonder (I'm glad Wonder's infectious excitement about all that Christmas offers still gets radio airplay so many decades later.)
