While many Yuletide efforts are toss-offs, this gem captures the qualities that made the Louvin Brothers one of the most compelling and satisfying close-harmony acts that ever recorded. Charlie and Ira's high lonesome sound recasts "O Little Town of Bethlehem" with the smoky flavor of the hills of Kentucky. But they truly shine on more obscure traditional numbers like "Good Christian Men Rejoice" and "The Friendly Beasts." The reissue also features an added bonus of two original compositions not available on the vinyl release. ~ Tim Sheridan