Tinsel Tunesby Anonymous

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December 20, 2003: This record label has an impressive lineup of artists in their roster, and "Tinsel Tunes," released in August, 1996, is a fantastic showcase holiday sampler of the label’s collective talent at that time. Each musician or band brings their signature sound to their chosen piece. Take Chris Thile's reflective "Bring a Torch, Jeanette Isabella," for example. Or Sammy Bush's hotly picked "Sleigh Ride." Being a big mandolin fan, these instrumentals gave me considerable listening pleasure. The eclectic nature of this album will surely hit home with music lovers during the holiday season. There's simply great singing and musicianship throughout. When you take groups with the caliber of Psychograss, which is more typically known for its firely and feisty playing, you'll be amazed by the rendition of their slow, inspired "On a Quiet Night." The eclectic Tinsel Tunes brings us bluegrass, newgrass, gospel, country and swing. This is not solely "drumless" acoustic music. The album opens with Chris Hillman's country-styled "Blue Christmas Lights," and the project closes on a similar electric vein. There's Don Dixon's classic rock interpretation of "Every Day Will be Like a Holiday," with electronic organ. Then, Chesapeake's "Christmas Swing" brings us steel guitar to get our bells jingling. Great variety! The record label has another nice holiday project out also called “Sugar Plums: Holiday Treats from Sugar Hill (SUG-CD-3796).” (Joe Ross, staff writer, Bluegrass Now)