Prime Cuts: Christmas Every Day, Best Time of the Year, Christmas Moon
Overall Grade: 5/5
JJ Heller's Christmas is a gentle snowfall of an album-quiet, tender, and full of wonder. Known for her soothing vocals and lullaby-infused songwriting, Heller brings a sense of calm to the season. This record doesn't try to dazzle or overwhelm; instead, it invites listeners to slow down, breathe deeply, and rediscover the simple beauty of Christmas.
From the opening notes, Heller's voice feels like a warm blanket on a winter night-soft, steady, and comforting. Her approach to Christmas music is not grand or orchestral; it's intentionally intimate. Acoustic guitars, piano, soft strings, and brushed percussion form a peaceful backdrop that highlights the purity of her vocals and the sincerity of her delivery.
Heller's interpretations of classics such as "Come Thou Long Expected Jesus," "Home for the Holidays," "Away in a Manger," and "O Holy Night" shimmer with reverence while retaining her trademark storyteller warmth. She never over-sings or over-arranges; instead, she lets the melodies breathe, giving these timeless carols room to feel both familiar and freshly personal.
Among the standout moments are her originals. "Christmas Everyday" is a tender love song that imagines what it would feel like if the warmth, kindness, and attentiveness people show during December became part of everyday life. Meanwhile, "Best Time of the Year" is a nostalgic celebration of everything that makes Christmastime feel magical. The song captures the cozy, childlike excitement of the season-lights twinkling, families gathering, traditions returning, and hearts opening with warmth and generosity.
"Christmas Moon" is one of JJ Heller's most tender and poetic holiday songs. The imagery evokes snow-covered rooftops, quiet streets, and a sense of holy stillness. The glowing moon becomes a symbol of God's nearness, reminding listeners that even the quiet, ordinary moments of Christmas are filled with wonder. Gentle, dreamy, and beautifully reflective, the song feels like a peaceful winter evening set to music.
"Born in Me," written from Mary's perspective, expresses humble awe at being chosen to carry Jesus-the Savior of the world. The song moves softly through Mary's emotions: wonder, fear, surrender, and devotion. It is one of the album's most moving tracks, offering a fresh, deeply personal meditation on the Nativity.
In the end, Christmas stands as one of JJ Heller's most beautifully cohesive projects. It radiates warmth without excess, reverence without heaviness, and joy without noise. Whether you are quietly wrapping gifts, reflecting on the Christmas story, or simply needing a moment of peace in a busy season, this album provides a gentle place to rest. Heller has crafted a Christmas record that feels timeless, sincere, and deeply comforting-music that reminds us, with grace and simplicity, why this season means so much.
