Review and More

Our Review

Christmas Traditions features delightful dulcimer music, but is not quite what I expected. I do absolutely love the dulcimer's rustic voice, especially for the holidays. The sound is earthy, sweet, a little rough-hewn, and always captivating. The match between the dulcimer and seasonal tunes is a natural, and we have reviewed many such albums on the site (see, for example, our reviews of 'Twas in the Moon of Wintertime and Christmas Morn). Russell Cook, the featured artist here, is undoubtedly at the top of his craft.

So what's unexpected about this lovely recording? Christmas Traditions is smoother and more richly produced than the usual dulcimer affair. This offering blends seven other accomplished musicians into the mix, playing everything from the stringed country cousins of the dulcimer (fiddle, mandolin, guitar) to classic classical instruments such as the oboe and English horn. As a result, this is sophisticated dulcimer folk music with a classical bent; perhaps one would describe the sound as easy-listening acoustic instrumentals for the holidays. Whatever you call it, Christmas Traditions establishes a crisp, bright, and beautiful ambiance for your seasonal gathering. The production values here are excellent, and the professionalism is consistently top notch throughout. If I had to choose a "top pick" of these cuts, I would favor the spritely "Jingle Bells," which opens with a subdued and almost elegant dulcimer intro before dissolving into a country-style fiddle-fest.

It's getting late, and Thanksgiving looms large on the horizon. So do you imagine that I am enjoying the lovely strains of Russell Cook's impeccable handling of the hammer dulcimer (often called the hammered dulcimer) on these 13 holiday favorites? Yes, indeed, I am! Christmas Traditions sets up a richly-textured and polished backdrop for any seasonal activity, including the writing of holiday music reviews!

--Carol Swanson
(Reviewed in 2004)

More

From the liner notes:

The Musicians:
Hammer Dulcimer: Russell Cook
Hammer Dulcimer Engineering: David Walker
Fiddle and Mandolin: Milo Deering
Guitar: Mac Price
Cello: Debbie Brooks
Flute: Pam Adams
English Horn and Oboe: Dennis Brickman
Keyboard: Tom Smith
Snare Drum: Randy Dodgen

Hammer Dulcimer Recorded at Wood 'N Strings Recording Studio
Other instruments recorded by Tom Smith at Tom Smith Studio
Produced by Russell Cook
Arrangements by Tom Smith

Russell fell in love with the Hammer Dulcimer in 1979 and built his first instrument from an old, discarded piano while teaching science in Southeast Oklahoma. After building numerous experimental models and winning the National Hammer Dulcimer Contest in 1981, he pursued building and playing the hammer dulcimer as a career by traveling throughout the U.S. performing, teaching and learning from others. Russell has built over 1000 instruments and recorded 12 albums, selling approximately 800,000 copies. He also started Master Works to carry on the tradition of building beautiful handcrafted instruments. Known for his relaxing, intricate playing style, he continues to record and perform music. When asked his personal motto, Russell states, "To be a master of my work and to be about the work of The Master."

The warm, crystalline sound of the hammer dulcimer is a thing of rare beauty, especially when played by a master like Russell Cook. And when combined with these timeless Christmas favorites, and supported by rich textures of guitars, flute, cello and much more, the result is a joyful, spirited tribute to the season.

From the Website:

Music for Living. Wherever life may lead, North Star Music is designed to enhance the journey. With a diversity of quality recordings and distinctive artists to suit the changing rhythms of your day. We invite you to explore our carefully selected repertoire

Traditional sounds for modern American living. Home is where you find it. And that's the idea behind the new Americana Collection. For you, it's the kind of music that will quickly become part of the woodwork. Another inviting reason to cherish your time away from the hustle-and-bustle of the everyday world.

Russell Cook

Christmas Traditions

Order from Amazon

Track List