A Philly Special Christmas Party

After landing on the Billboard 200 with A Philly Special Christmas (2022) and A Philly Special Christmas Special (2023), the Philly Specials -- NFL offensive linemen Lane Johnson, Jason Kelce, Jordan Mailata, and friends -- return for the final installment of their fundraising trilogy, 2024s A Philly Special Christmas Party. Again offering a mix of popular genres but leaning into soul music, its sounds span a version of "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" based on the Gene Autry original, a spirited "Feliz Navidad," a jazzy "Sleigh Ride" with Immanuel Wilkins, and an earnest, country-tinged interpretation of singer/songwriter Ron Sexsmiths "Maybe This Christmas" featuring none other than Stevie Nicks. Elsewhere, Boyz II Men join Jasons Superbowl-winning brother Travis Kelce on "Its Christmas Time (In Cleveland Heights)," and versatile vocalist Devon Gilfillian helps out with a version of Sam Cookes "Having a Party" that proves to be an album highlight. After indie combo Mt. Joy assist on "Santa Drives an Astrovan," the album ends with an a cappella rendition of the traditional song "The Parting Glass." By delivering on the party theme for the most part and including guests who no doubt attracted fans from outside of the Eagles fanbase, A Philly Special Christmas Party became the projects best-charting volume when it debuted in the Billboard 200 Top 20. All proceeds from the release benefitted Philadelphia-area charities. ~ Marcy Donelson