KDHX 88.1 FM
- While Shepherds Watched (Hail Chime On)-Artisan (After hearing a few different versions of this at varying tempos, I'm convinced Artisan's fast tempo is the most appropriate one. After you hear the chorus enough times, it's difficult not to sing along. I'd be inclined to give money to any carolers showing this much camaraderie, even if they aren't requesting it. Also recommended: Kate Rusby's version, just titled "Hail Chime On.")
- Angels We Have Heard On High-Mayim (This beautifully sung rendition from these three women never wears out its welcome with me. If this isn't a suitably angelic interpretation, I don't know what would be.)
- Snowfall-Ahmad Jamal (If you prefer that your Christmas music not be overtly Christmasy, this rendition, with its brisk piano part and percussive backbeat, might appeal to you.)
- Santa Claus Is Comin' To Town-Ray Charles (With the possible exception of Lou Rawls, no other vocalist presents his "Look, kids, be good because Santa's watching" case more persuasively than Charles.)
- Silver Bells-Johnny Mathis (Effectively placed bells during the intro start this rendition off on the right foot, and Mathis wrings more emotion from the tune than most vocalists.)
- Celebrate Me Home-Al Jarreau (As much as I like the original version by Kenny Loggins, I was pleased to hear two radio stations give this underplayed Jarreau cover its due within 12 hours of each other. Jarreau conveys the feeling of being welcomed with open arms as effectively as Loggins.)
