On “The Gift of Christmas,” American Idol winner and Grammy-nominated singer Jordin Sparks takes the listener on a magical and heartwarming journey through four classic carols and holiday hymns, leaving an indelible mark on the Christmas canon in the process. Beatific choral harmonies flank and uplift Sparks on “Angels We Have Heard on High” in a divine rendition certain to bring the congregation to its feet. On Christmas staples “Jingle Bells” and “Silent Night,” Sparks marries fireside coziness with symphonic splendor. And the 18th-century hymn “Oh Come All Ye Faithful,” steeped in gospel and classical traditions, feels warm enough to melt the cold heart of Ebenezer Scrooge. Throughout the EP, Sparks’ mighty mezzo-soprano is a fountain of love and Christmas exaltation.