Deana Carter

This holiday album manages to be great despite itself -- one of Deana Carter's strengths is her songwriting; this is a collection largely of standards. Even though it adds a kind of fireside charm, the guitar accompaniment, provided by her father, Fred Carter, Jr., seems ham-handed and often off-tempo. The only thing about the album that isn't flawed is her voice. Subtle and sweet, she charms throughout and sets a gentle, soothing tone that is perfect for a wintry evening. Carter has also managed to present a holiday album that manages to exude a down-home country style without resorting to stereotypical twanginess and fiddles. Father Christmas may not go too far to try to be original or different, but it is pretty memorable just the way it is. ~ Stacia Proefrock, All Music Guide