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In my book, Maggie Sansone is a rock star. Not literally, of course, but she certainly does rock the world of acoustic folk music. Her "Maggie's Music" label is the hallmark for excellence in Irish, Scotch, and medieval music (www.maggiesmusic.com). Not surprisingly, Sansone's Sounds of the Season II is an outstanding offering of acoustic instrumental music for the holidays (for a review of the original Sounds of the Season, see here). Everything about it is strong; first-rate musicianship exudes from every note. The focus is on acoustic strings--primarily Sansone's hammered dulcimer, but also the Celtic harp, guitar, mandolin and more. This album is bright, welcoming, and overbrimming with holiday cheer. When I want to relax and listen to great seasonal music, this album is exactly the sort of thing that often tops my list. So cool!

Sansone has fine company on this offering. The usual suspects are here, including Sue Richards (harp), Robin Bullock (guitar, mandolin) and Carolyn Surrick (viola da gamba). Although I love Sounds of the Season, this second edition is perhaps even better. The production seems a bit crisper, the arrangements more sophisticated, and the song selection a tad more user-friendly (less eclectic). Of the 17 tracks, only two were unfamiliar. The value of unknown pieces, of course, is the joy of discovery, and I particularly relished Alle Psallite Cum Luya, a French medieval tune with cool, grunty viola da gamba (like a cello) fluorishes up front, rounds of sound, and a zarb-Arabian drum clapping a background beat. Addictive! The traditional carols are heaven-sent; nothing routine or boring about them, no matter how many times you've heard them before. The stately We Three Kings (the album's longest cut at 6:14), reflects three kings-related numbers, and has the harp and dulcimer dancing round and round in regal elegance, throwing in a bit of Indian drum, too. Sounds of the Season II constantly surprises with expertly-executed details. The arrangements are wonderful throughout. Not every track is cheery and light, of course. Pieces such as I Wonder as I Wander reflect a contemplative edge. It's all good.

Sounds of the Season II presents the sort of music that gladdens the heart, and a glad heart is something I strive to carry throughout the holidays and beyond. Looking for beautiful instrumental music that will kick-start your ticker? Ask Dr. Sansone for assistance; her prescription should ease your holiday doldrums in a flash.

--Carol Swanson
(Reviewed in 2006)

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From the liner notes:

Musicians:
Maggie Sansone: Hammered Dulcimer, Guitar, Drum, Sleigh Bells
Sue Richards: Celtic Harp
Linda Lunbeck: Recorders
Robin Bullock: Guitar, Cittern, Violin, Mandolin
Carolyn Surrick: Viola Da Gamba
Stream Ohrstrom: Zarb

Produced by Maggie Sansone
Mixed by Maggie Sansone
Arrangements by Maggie Sansone with creative contributions from all the musicians.

Maggie Sansone

Sounds of the Season II

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Track List