Bluegrass & White Snow: A Mountain Christmas

 (57 customer reviews)

From Patty Loveless' first soaring, twanging notes on "Away in a Manger," you know you are in for a dual bluegrass/Christmas treat with "Bluegrass & White Snow." The instrumental arrangements are nothing short of superb, and Loveless is in fine, clear voice here. "Away in a Manger" has suitably quiet backing instruments, all the better to showcase Loveless' gorgeous Kentucky voice. From this opening traditional tune, things only get better. "Silent Night" begins with hammer dulcimer and violin (and has Trisha Yearwood contributing background vocals to great effect!). "Joy to the World"--a duet with Jon Randall--features rich, gorgeous harmonies and the unlikely but strikingly effective combination of bells and banjo. An instrumental version of "Carol of the Bells" is absolutely lovely, using as it does mandolin, mandola, mandocello, chimes, and even wine glasses. I don't know when I've heard a prettier version of this...Read more

If you're thinking that you'll like this, then get it because you will love it. All of the songs are flawlessly done. The first half of the album is more on the traditional side (but bluegrass, of course), while the last half is a little more raucous (three of which are new originals by Patty and husband/producer Emory Gordy Jr). There are shimmering harmonies throughout; but like in the great "Mountain Soul", my favorites are when Patty and her sister, Carmella Ramsey, sing harmony together. They really have something special together. Their harmonies on the new "Christmas Day At My House" is a particular standout. Another standout is the title track, which features Dolly Parton and Ricky Skaggs in the background.

Don't miss it! You'll love breaking this one out every year.

As it's title suggests, Loveless' collection offers Christmas from a bluegrass perspective. The first eight tracks are comprised primarily of hymns. Tight harmonies abound, with Trisha Yearwood ("The First Noel"), Jon Randall ("Joy To The World"), and Rebecca Lynn Howard ("Little Drummer Boy") among the well-chosen collaborators. The final tracks are made up of bluegrass staples "Beautiful Star Of Bethlehem" and "Christmas Time's A Comin'" as well as three sprightly compositions (including the title track) by Loveless and hubby Emory Gordy Jr. that are destined for stapledom. While not musically diverse, this acoustic album can't be topped for purity of sound.