Album Review: Mary J Blige - A Mary Christmas

If we're being kind we can call the new Christmas record by Mary J Blige another string in her diverse musical bow, but it's a long way from her finest hours. Featuring a pretty standard – or safe – selection of songs, the execution is genuine, but unremarkable. The most challenging moments are those bordering on festive cringe rather than intrigue. There are strong moments existing Blige fans will enjoy, but it's not a classic of the genre, therefore begging the question what exactly she's doing in the realm of theme albums with name-pun titles.