Can you believe that after 15-plus years in contemporary Christian music, this is Kathy Troccoli's first-ever Christmas offering? In a genre where everyone and their brother has a holiday release, Troccoli's patience is a virtue, as evidenced from the tasteful A Sentimental Christmas. It is a release with which Troccoli demonstrates that her classically trained voice is an instrument, allowing her cool jazz variations on the holiday theme. On "What Child Is This?" for example, Troccoli scats away the chorus in Ella Fitzgerald-like fashion. And Mr. Christmas himself, Andy Williams, teams up with Troccoli on "It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year." There's certainly some holiday magic here as both singers blend well for a festive pace throughout. Let's not forget the coproduction that Troccoli showcases here, utilizing the U.S. Navy Jazz Band to its fullest extent. All in all, a release worth the wait. --Michael Lyttle