A Very Kacey Christmas

With holiday albums, some artists tend to lose themselves in the music; their individuality evaporates, or is diluted. It is almost a written rule that every holiday themed album include at least one well-known, and this record is no different in that regard, but holds true to its title. The album is undeniably Kacey, which might not register until after the initial two tempered tributes to the holiday are through. But by the third track, her cover of "Christmas, Don't Be Late," you realize it's true. In all honesty, who could compare with the cuteness of three singing chipmunk brothers? Even when in actuality it was voice modulation and effects; the accordion on her version add to its quirk. 

The first original tune on the disc promises "A Willie Nice Christmas," and an exceptional duet follows, with who else? Willie Nelson. She helps convert a holiday breakup into a gift of song, with well wishes for everyone, including he who may have broken her heart, figuratively and possibly, and the island guitar suits the sentiment. 

She then hones her well wishes to one holiday with her version of "Feliz Navidad," with an appropriate latin flare.
While her second original, "Christmas Makes Me Cry," is not my favorite it can stand with other tunes written for the lonely and broken hearted around the holidays; many would jump to "Blue Christmas," but I thought of Dean Martin's "Christmas Blues." 

The subsequent original, "Present Without A Bow," may be in a similar vein, but is a little cheerier with two. Misery loves company, and I feel a little merrier after listening to this modern classic, in spite of context. Consider this song a bridge to a more mirthful time when the significant others are celebrating together. 

Which brings me to my next point. It almost feels like there is a loose narrative because the final original, and second last song, express the joy in finding that special someone, and the love they offer is more than any amount of gifts in "Ribbons and Bows" can give.

The other three songs in the final quarter gradually veer from the quirky, with "I Want a Hippopotamus For Christmas" to the tale about an outsider with a red nose, and finally an inquiry, "What Are You Doing Christmas Eve?"

Usually, the holiday is a bust, but...right. It wasn't an invitation. 

I may not know Kacey, but I am acquainted enough with her music to say that this album was an accurate designation to score what A Very Kacey Christmas could be.