Wallace, Jason, Alex and Zach are the three brothers who play (usually) violin with ensembles such as the Philadelphia Orchestra. This Christmas album has them going a bit more folksy and bluegrassy with the company of Don Liuzzi/perc, Mark Cosgrove/g, Kevin MacConnell/b and Mike Mumford, who just won a bluegrass award for best banjoist of the year. Together, the create an album that mixes the sentiment of Christmas without sounding maudling, and presenting the various carols and associated songs of the season is a way that is both fresh and timeless.
Material such as “Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring” has some rich violin statement of the melody that gradually turns into a folksy jaunt. A clever banjo and guitar reading of “Linus and Lucy” sounds like it was written in the Smoky Mountains, while a take of “Sleigh Ride” will take you to the local dance hall with your partner. Warm vocals are present on “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” and gives it a traditional feel, contrasted with a refreshing banjo on Greensleeves. Mary comes to Nashville! This is a release that can be appreciated on a level of musicianship and arranging as well as a companion with your egg nog. Excellent.
www.depuebrothersband.com