Admitedly I'm a fan of Toby's voice he's got that pleasing deep even southern ease drawl that's versitile enough that he can vocally sell a emotionally sad or romantic ballad or add a lot of attitude for his signature fun hard hitting songs. Thankfully, that rich baritone doesn't carry the bad after taste of the country nasel or twang that is fun for a few songs but leaves you looking for the off button and an Advil.
Even though I am a fan of Toby's voice this was going to be a truly a tough sell for me because I also cut my teeth on Contemporary Gospel music and Praise and worship music and it's a genre I love. When I first heard Toby's voice I'd wondered what that Amazing voice of his would be like coupled with Amazing Grace. Even though it was my wish - I was nervous that it just wouldn't get what I was truly looking for especially on a Christmas CD -- But in my opinion he sold it flock, stocking and baritone. It takes a lot of confidence to break into deep rooted traditional songs that we all have burned into our internal ipods by music legends - Toby obviously has the confidence - and its well earned because there were more than a few songs that really blew me away.
I have to disagree with "The Critic" above because as for the packaging of two cd's; one traditional Christmas songs, and the second cd carrying the more spiritual CHRISTmas lyrics - It makes a lot of sense for me because you can pick and choose which one fits depending on who the audience you invite over for the Holidays. Be careful though, a revival just might break out when you play the rousing rendition of "Go Tell it on the Mountain"
Happy Holidays!