The queen of modern R&B-influenced gospel soul brings a typically updated approach to that weary and played-out trope, the Christmas album. This is her first, and though the singing is less intense and earth-shatteringly amazing than on last year's breakthrough Mountain High, Valley Low, how intense can one be when singing "Little Drummer Boy"? Her take on "It Came Upon A Midnight Clear" is so thick with slo-jam funk it almost loses its way, but never does, and is a highlight of this solid though not superlative disc. Unfortunately, this is mostly a set of secular shopping mall tunes. One notable exception is "Born On This Day", which drops a heavy choir funk vibe. And her take on "O Holy Night" is a truly transporting one that will have you taking a cue from the song and falling down on your knees in thanks for the many blessings of the holiday season. --James Conde