Known as the "First Lady of gospel," Pastor Shirley Caesar wraps some seasonal favorites in the cloak of her well enunciated and energetic delivery. And while Caesar's Christmas collection inspired the 1999 Dove Awards to vote her the Traditional Gospel Artist of the Year, this collection is really an eclectic blend of synthetic contemporary-Christian gospel-funk wherein overwrought arrangements occasionally detract from Caesar's fiery power. The standout here is an especially moving rendition of "Ave Maria," swaddled in an elegant swathe of strings juxtaposed with Pastor Caesar's Latin, each syllable bitten clear through with purpose and immediacy. --Paige La Grone