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It makes perfect sense that the “King of the 5-String Banjo” would have a Christmas album too. This tastefully done project features all-instrumental collection of many seasonal favorites. Raymond could’ve really gone to town with some of his more innovative licks and tricks, but he keeps his picking fairly conservative with this holiday fare. That’s probably a wise approach with these 14 carols and songs that also include Cody Shuler (mandolin), Arvil Freeman (fiddle), Wayne Crowe (bass, guitar), and Bruce Moody (guitar). Thankfully they don’t play with Nashville-styled slickness. They just seem to have fun and play with spirit (sometimes with a little harmony thrown in) that would make Jolly Ol’ St, Nick proud.

When family and friends come over for a holiday gathering, put this CD on to liven things up a bit. There are plenty of easy listening Christmas albums out there, and “yule” surely get a kick from banjo-centric renditions of “Frosty the Snowman” and “Here Comes Santa Claus.” In a certain way, Fairchild is like Santa too for bringing us this heart-warming gift for a Bluegrassy Christmas. (Joe Ross, staff writer, Bluegrass Now)