Photo Credit: Island Records

By: Natalie Hovanesian

I know what you’re thinking; great, another Justin Bieber album. But his most recent Christmas album, “Under the Mistletoe,” is sure to get everyone into the holiday spirit.

Released on Nov. 1, it has a different style from his previous albums due to his maturing personality and music. For one, Bieber’s voice is much deeper, which automatically changes the way his music sounds. Many songs have the addition of jingle bells, giving the album a holiday feel.

“Under the Mistletoe” has 11 tracks, but also has a deluxe version which has four additional singles. Bieber has included many traditional songs in this album, while managing to add his own taste and personality into the music.

“Santa Claus is Coming to Town” is more of a pop song rather than the customary song everyone has already heard. Bieber not only sings very lightheartedly, but he also makes remarks to entertain the listener. With lyrics like “it’s that time of the year, where you let all your problems go,” listeners can tell that he is greatly enjoying himself because of the passion in his voice. I found myself tapping my foot to the loving spirited tone.

Bieber’s take on “Silent Night” had me struck with bliss and ecstasy. His voice is relaxing, especially since it is combined with a beautiful piano medley that echoes in the background.

Another factor that makes this album so different is that Bieber has collaborated with Usher, Mariah Carey, Boyz II Men, Busta Rhymes, and The Band Perry, giving each single a unique quality.

The song “Drummer Boy” featuring Busta Rhymes is another traditional track, but the beat is completely different. The classic one is a soft and relaxing melody, while Bieber’s version is fast and upbeat. In this version, Bieber raps (surprisingly well) during one half of the song and sings in the other. Busta Rhymes, known for his extremely fast rapping, also raps during the song which makes the listener nod his head with the lyrics.

In the single “All I Want for Christmas is You,” featuring Mariah Carey, Bieber sings during one part of the verse and they sing together in the chorus. Carey adds a special tone to the song because of her high-pitched style of singing.

Despite all the wonderful collaborations, however, “Mistletoe” is definitely my favorite song on the album because it is just one of those songs that you can put on repeat and still get a different feel for each time. Once it plays, I can imagine hot chocolate with marshmallows, fuzzy socks, and presents that represent the “most beautiful time of the year.” The jingle bells and snaps in the background give the song the perfect warm feel.

At about 38 minutes in length, “Under the Mistletoe” is a must-have Christmas album to brighten up the holidays.