Richard Marx

“Christmas Spirit”: He possesses an arsenal of hits and has written another several dozen for other acts, yet Marx has never entered Christmas territory until this, a largely reverential outing with some original gems.

Make sure to listen: “Alleluia,” his version of the Larry Gatlin arrangement, is haunting, while his duet with Kenny Loggins on “Let There Be Peace on Earth” exemplifies the Christmas spirit in every way.

Skip it: Nothing is particularly egregious, but his “Little Drummer Boy” is a bit muted.

Original songs: “Christmas Mornings,” written with Dave Grusin, and the title track, written with longtime friend Fee Waybill (The Tubes). Both are great, but the latter is an engaging ditty that deserves long-term play (and make sure to track down its video).

Special guests: Loggins, Sara Niemietz and Sara Watkins.

Make sure to listen: “I’ll Be Home for Christmas,” on which Travolta’s voice — wobbly on many parts of the album — sounds tender and strong, a perfect complement to Newton-John’s breathy vocals, which also shine on “Silent Night.”

Skip it: See “Original songs.”

Original songs: The thinly produced pseudo-rocker “I Think You Might Like It.” Eh, not really.

Special guests: Do they need anyone other than themselves? Probably not, but they took this opportunity to round up a ton of friends, including Barbra Streisand, Cliff Richard and James Taylor.