Josh Turner has released his first-ever Christmas album – King Size Manger – and the result is long over due, setting himself apart from a legion of Christmas records. Listen to the album here.
Given the fact that Josh Turner has led with faith throughout the course of his two-decade long career, it is surprising that it is only this year that Josh Turner has released his first ever Christmas album. King Size Manger is an eleven-track strong collection of reinvented classics, four original tracks, and three tracks written or co-written by Turner.
King Size Manger is a quietly joyful celebration and infusion of the Christmas spirit, complete with delightful Christmas classics that showcase the power of Josh Turner’s vocal – infusing his respect for his faith in every syllable. From Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas – on which Turner is joined by his wife and children – to Joy to the World – joined by Rhonda Vincent – Turner’s vocal and faith are centre stage. It’s a joyful and poised celebration that breathes new life into celebrated Christmas classics.
Elsewhere, Turner unleashes thoughtfully composed originals, including ‘Merle Kalikimaka My Ohana’ a charming upbeat track featuring some astonishing instrumental talent to ‘What He’s Given Me’ that seamlessly brings together the best of faithful and bluegrass music. The title track, ‘King Size Manger’ – a ballad co-written by Turner and Mark Narmore – is the strongest of the original tracks, telling the story of Jesus’ birth.
Turner’s vocal was one always made for these kind of joyfully, celebratory yet reverent retellings of the tale of Jesus’ birth. It’s a beautifully crafted project and feels immensely overdue.
