The Regis Philbin Christmas Album (CD) by Regis Philbin

If former Live co-host Kathie Lee Gifford can have a recording career, why can't her ex-partner Regis Philbin have one too? Well, he can, and for those who didn't already know, he does. Philbin steps back into the music ring for a twelve song collection of Christmas chestnuts and ko's his former Live co-host (in the vocal department at least) in the process. Whereas Gifford's music may come off slick and over produced, Philbin's Christmas Album is as authentic as his hair.

The Philbin Christmas express pulls out of the station with a buttery cover of "Where Do We Go For Christmas." Regis spreads his old-school vocals atop a jazzy arrangement that is as soothing as an open fire after a few large glasses of uncle Milt's spiked eggnog. The usual suspects appear on the disc. The milky smooth "White Christmas," which finds Philbin sounding a bit like Frank Sinatra, and the big band brushed "Winter Wonderland," featuring Reeg's main squeeze, Joy, are dusted off and given a fresh coat of paint. "Santa Claus Is Coming To Town" skips along nicely; Philbin seems to be having a ball performing the song.

The Donald makes a comical guest appearance on "Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer." Trump is everywhere these days, and he shines like the North Star on the track. "Rudolph," Trump growls, "you're hired. Blitzen, you're fired!" The Missus joins Reeg for a sultry version of "Baby, It's Cold Out Side." Mr. and Mrs. Philbin get a little amorous on the slow burning track. The piano and string peppered "Let It Snow, Let It Snow, Let It Snow" is a real treat. Philbin sounds like he had a few glasses of Christmas cheer before he hit the studio.

Regis slips back into Sinatra mode for the sparely arranged "Silver Bells." The Regis Philbin Singers happily chime in behind their leader. Steve Tyrell, who also produced the disc, joins ol' Reeg for a spirited "Marshmallow World." Tyrell and Philbin playfully trade lines throughout the cut. Highlights include holiday classics "Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas" and "The Christmas Song." The latter, written by Mel Torme and Robert Wells, is a perfect fit for Philbin's voice, and the perfect way to end the disc.

Skeptics will be surprised when they find out Regis can really sing. The Regis Philbin Christmas Album is an enjoyable holiday collection.

By Todd Sterling