Elton John

What? Not one compilation with Bing Crosby's original "White Christmas"? That hasn't happened in decades. But it's a good thing, as Martha Stewart would say between batches of Christmas cookies, because it leaves room for more original, contemporary holiday recordings.

There are many worthy new releases this year from a variety of artists. Here are some of our favorites, and most interesting.

"Elton John's Christmas Party," Various (Hear Music): Elton John is not only a rock star, he's a rock fan. He shows his love and knowledge of rock history with this great collection of 21 hand-picked songs from a wide span of artists, including the Ronettes, the Ventures, Rufus Wainwright and John Mayer. There's a new song, "Calling It Christmas," a traditional ballad written by John and Bernie Taupin, featuring Elton and young-but-mature-sounding Joss Stone. Other highlights: Bruce Springsteen's "Santa Claus Is Coming to Town," the Beach Boys' "The Man With All the Toys" and the Eagles "Please Come Home For Christmas." Available only at Starbucks stores or online at www.starbucks.com/hearmusic