New Tunes Tuesday - Blake Shelton

I had a hard time finding a CD to review for today. Is it too early for Christmas music?

Well, too bad.

You may know him as one of the sharpest tongues in Country Music, the bromance partner to Adam Levine on The Voice, or the guy on Twitter always talking about drinking. Yep, I'm talking about Blake Shelton. He doesn't really seem like the "family" guy who loves Christmas, does he?

But hold on a sec... he brings in a lot of star power on this album that makes it work. Even his Mom sings on the album! So, he does keep it clean, y'all.

First up is a song with wife, Miranda Lambert, Jingle Bell Rock. It's a twangy, rocking good time. They sound great together. Another favorite of mine, which makes so much sense it's silly, is Blue Christmas featuring Pistol Annies. Their back-up harmony is perfect to his melody. I have the Spotify link to the song posted below. Home featuring Michael Buble' is a touching addition to the album. Gives it a little Sinatra feel. Kelly Clarkson really improves There's A New Kid In Town. It's really kind of a boring song until her verse starts. But she can make any song sound better with her powerful voice. Oklahoma Christmas will also make you smile, especially since Reba sings with him on this song.

The other songs seem a little forced. Maybe he should have just stuck to duets? The collaboration and team effort is what really makes the album work.

"Cheers, it's Christmas" is a solid album for the season... you know... when you're ready.

Standout track: