Vocalist
Josh Groban
delivers his first Christmas themed album with 2007's
Noel
. Once again produced by longtime "man behind the curtain"
David Foster
, the album features more of
Groban
's dewy, supple vocals set to
Foster
's cinematic orchestrations. As per the holiday theme, these are primarily classic tunes of the season including such chestnuts as "Silent Night," "Ave Maria," and, of course, "The Christmas Song." However, also included are a few lesser-known traditional songs as "Panis Angelicus" and "Angels We Have Heard on High." Similarly, while most of the productions here should appeal to longtime fans of
's particular classical-crossover sound, some cuts like soft rock inflected "It Came Upon a Midnight Clear" and the Celtic folk leaning "Little Drummer Boy" do expand upon the
/
palette in a pleasing way. Notably, also showcased here are guest appearances by country superstar
Faith Hill
, R&B stalwart
Brian McKnight
, and perennial holiday backing band
the Mormon Tabernacle Choir
. ~ Matt Collar