Elvis Presley - Blue Christmas (CD, Imported)

Elvis Presley had a multitude of hits on his roster that became synonymous with both his voice and his name, and firmly ensconced somewhere at the top of that list would have to be his heartfelt delivery of "Blue Christmas." On this Christmas collection of the same name, Presley's gospel influence, as well as his role as a swoon machine, dictate the material. Songs like the title track and "I'll Be Home for Christmas" might not have the same impact now as they did in the days of life during wartime, but Presley's voice can still elicit an ache or two with its delivery. Despite the fact that some viewed him as a sexual threat, there was often an innocence in his songs. That innocence shows nicely in "Winter Wonderland," while "O Come All Ye Faithful" is Elvis at his holiday best. Blue Christmas is probably the best of Presley's offerings of the season. --Steve Gdula