Billy Dean Album: “The Christ (A Song For Joseph)”

Billy Dean's voice sounds amazing here. I normally don't listen to Christmas music, but stumbling upon this CD while browsing, I became inspired. This CD is simply beautiful, sweet, uplifting, and spiritual in the true sense of the holiday. This is a must buy. And even if you are not a country music fan, the music on this album transcends any labeling. Just listen and you will see. Billy Dean is amazing and I am very satisfied with this release. This is a very special album.

Many artists cut a Christmas album for the commercial value. On this heartfelt album, one gets the sense the Billy Dean is singing from a sincere Christian faith. There is a definite New Traditional Country feel, but it is so tastefully done, that the traditional carols are enhanced, not squeezed into the genre for the sake of a country music audience. Billy Dean has a pleasant voice, calm and relaxed. The duets add to the feeling of a family singing carols together in a loving Christmas tableau. It reminds me of those times each member of our family was "required" to bring their instruments to my mother-in-law's home for "performances" around the piano. This album may not become a classic, but it is certainly enjoyable and a worthwhile addition to the collection of anyone that loves Christmas music OR country music, a perfect blend.

I love to have a variety of CDs on my player during the holidays.

Billy Dean is great. He has a wonderful voice.

I purchased two of these - one for myself and one for my sister. I initially bought it just because it had the Song for Joseph on it by Billy Dean - and although it is more of a Christmas season album, I find the entire collection soothing to listen to - and do so at least twice a week. To me, it is an album of Faith.

Imagine inviting some musician friends over for a pre-Christmas gathering and they all sit around and play their acoustic instruments on traditional Christmas songs. That's what Billy Dean's THE CHRIST reminds me of. I can see them sitting by the fireside, with their acoustic guitars, cello, piano, etc. This is by no means a "showy" collection, but heartfelt and simple. Only the last song, SHINE ON, wouldn't fit in this motif, as it is more of a Christian "rock" song, and though it's okay, it sort of ruins the pre-established mood. Dean is one of those country singers who doesn't have a remarkable voice, but it is pleasant and emotional. He is joined by former Ambrosia leader David Pack on a touching rendition of MARY DID YOU KNOW that one reviewer found to be a little too much on Pack's part. I disagree, though---Pack has a marvelous voice and his high tenor blends beautifully with Dean's baritone and the result is moving. Not being a fan of Dolly Parton, I found her inclusion on SILENT NIGHT a little irritating, but one can't deny the sincerity of her vocal delivery. Dean uses his daughter Hannah on the lovely JUST FOR YOU AND ME, but unlike some others (Vince Gill, Collin Raye most noteably), he doesn't force her out in front to do a solo; her harmonies are complimentary to Dad's lead. Cellist John Catchings and guitarist Larry Beard add some lovely counterpoints to the songs, most of which are traditional carols, and the lovely new song THE CHRIST. This CD certainly won't rank as a classic, but it is moving and would be a nice change in your Christmas collection.