Description

Linda Russell and Companie – A Colonial Christmas – Vinyl Record

Linda Russell and Companie’s album A Colonial Christmas offers a delightful exploration of traditional holiday music as it would have been experienced in colonial America. This collection of songs reflects the historical and cultural backdrop of the American colonies, providing listeners with a taste of Christmas from a bygone era.

Linda Russell, known for her work as a historical balladeer, uses authentic instruments from or replicas of those used during colonial times, such as the dulcimer, hammered dulcimer, and flute, to bring an authentic sound to the music. The album includes a mix of well-known tunes that have persisted through the centuries, as well as lesser-known pieces that were popular during the colonial period but have since faded into obscurity.

This 17-track album of colonial Christmas carols was issued in 1986 and features Linda Russell on lead vocal, mountain dulcimer, hammered dulcimer, wooden flute, penny whistle; Ridley Enslow, vocal, violin; Joe Kaminsky, guitar, mandolin; Lloyd Altman, cello; Bobbie Wayne, vocal, Celtic harp; Cynthia Russell and producer John Miller, vocals; Mark Hardwick, accordion; Sue Evans, percussion and Lawrence Cole, Northumbrian small pipes. Songs include ‘I Saw Three Ships,’ ‘The Holly and the Ivy,’ ‘The Cherry Tree Carol,’ ‘God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen’ and others.

The selection of songs on A Colonial Christmas includes both secular and religious music, featuring arrangements that remain true to the simplicity and earthiness characteristic of the period’s musical style. Through her music, Russell not only entertains but also educates listeners about the colonial American life, offering insights into the customs and celebrations of the time.

This album is particularly appreciated by those interested in early American history, folk music enthusiasts, and anyone looking to experience a different, historically grounded perspective on Christmas music. Linda Russell and Companie’s performance on A Colonial Christmas captures the spirit of the holidays with a charming historical twist, making it a unique addition to holiday music collections.

Brand new, never played and still sealed in the factory plastic seal

Flying Fish Records 1986 FF 402

Track Listing
1. Ding Dong Merrily on High
2. I Saw Three Ships
3. Stille Nacht
4. The Holly and the Ivy
5. A Virgin Unspotted
6. The Huron Carol
7. Un Flambeau, Jeanette, Isabelle
8. Drive the Cold Winter Away
9. The Holy Well
10. The Gloucestershire Wassail
11. All Poor Men and Humble
12. All You That Are Good Fellows
13. The Old Year Now Away is Fled
14. The Cherry Tree Carol
15. O Leave Your Sheep
16. The Friendly Beasts
17. God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen