My favorite cut on this CD, I believe, might be “A Voice of Our Savior.” This cut, in particular, really captured the essence of a live recording, in bluegrass style, perfectly and was quite well done. I liked Christmas in the Mountains,” “Nothing but the Blood,” “Joy To the World,” and “O Holy Night.” All are very good and dynamic recordings.
“Go Tell It on the Mountain,” inspired me because it involves some very talented young children singers. Children involvement is what Christmas is all about, to me, anyway. Anyone can sing Christmas music but it is really special when a child is doing some singing and they are doing a good job here.
“Jingle bells” is also great with the banjo harmonics and use of “D” tuners.
“A Voice Of Our Savior”
“Joy to the World”
“Silent Night”
“In The Sweet By And By”
“Away In the Manger”
“Tis So Sweet To Trust in Jesus”
“O Holy Night”
“A Voice of Our Savior”
“There’s A Way in the Manger”
“Nothing but the Blood”
“Christmas in the Mountains”
A well done CD of Christmas music here that goes far above the average generic Christmas album. I recommend this to everybody this Christmas season.
Editor’s note: This CD is from a live performance at the Bell Theater in Pineville, KY presented this past June (2012). Showcasing Christmas in the Appalachian traditions, it was hosted by Mike Scott (Nashville Band). Performers included: Steve Gulley (Doyle Lawson and Quick Silver), Dale Ann Bradley (2011 IBMA Female Vocalist of the Year), Marty Rabon (Grammy winner/Shenandoah), Audie Baylock (2012 IBMA Male Vocalist of the Year nominee), Cumberland River, Common Strings, Debbie Gulley and students from the Cumberland River Music Academy. The CD package includes a DVD disc featuring live performances, artist interviews, personal stories of Christmas experiences and a behind the scenes look at the production of this event.
Rural Rhythm Records