Whereas the first volume of Christmas Grass was nearly entirely instrumental, Koch's second seasonal bluegrass collection kicks off with the rousing vocals of no less a star than
Dolly Parton on "Christmas Time's a Comin'." The harmonies of
Doyle Lawson and
Quicksilver are utterly pristine on "O Christmas Candle"; an instrumental version of "It Came Upon a Midnight Clear" features Dobro, mandolin, and fiddle solos; and
Sonya Isaacs' "Mary, Did You Know?" is a tasteful blend of contemporary country vocals and bluegrass instrumentation. There's also a nice, nearly high lonesome version of "Silent Night." Christmas Grass, Vol. 2 is a solid set for any festive bluegrass fan. ~ Johnny Loftus