Billboard requires a JavaScript enabled browser to get the full experience

Bob Dylan, "Christmas in the Heart"

by Robert Levine  |   November 13, 2009 4:14 EST

Bob Dylan is so far into the creative renaissance that began with his 1997 album, "Time out of Mind," that even fans could forget his knack for taking unexpected left turns. But even by Dylan's standards, his new album "Christmas in the Heart" is an odd one-a collection of straight-ahead Christmas songs that benefits Feeding America, as well as food charities in other countries. But it will remind listeners that for nearly a decade Dylan has been working on his croon-exploring musical styles that are more polished than folk and blues. This set, which mixes holiday classics like "Here Comes Santa Claus" with lesser-known songs like "Christmas Island" and a raved-up, accordion-heavy take on "Must Be Santa," includes a breadth of styles that reminds one of Dylan's satellite radio show as much as his albums. And speaking of left turns, he sings part of "O Come All Ye Faithful" in Latin-and gets away with it.-Robert Levine

Up for Discussion

Connect with

More Features

All features

All of Billboard.com's Great Lists

Billboard chart app

Billboard archives

Thanks For Joining Billboard

Log in to create your profile, speak your mind and connect with listeners like you.

Why Join ?

Don't just hear it. Live it. Go deeper than a casual listen: Voice your feelings, build a profile around your favorite music, connect with people who share your passions and discover new ones. Sign up for free.

Complete Your Registration at Billboard.com!

Haven't Joined Yet ?

For the full Billboard experience, you need to be a member. Sign up. It's free.

Join Billboard

Forgot your password?

Enter the e-mail address you used to sign up and we will email you the password .

Email Sent !

Your password has been sent to the email address you provided. Please sign in below :

Log In

Forget your password ?

Action Successful

We'd love to hear your feedback on the new Billboard.com!

Whether it's a feature request or a bug

We want to hear from you. Please use this form to anonymously give us your input.