Wrapped in White: Visions of Christmas Past
Wrapped in White: Visons of Christmas Pastis truly a treat. More than adhering to the theme of Christmas, multi-instrumentalist John Doan furthers the concept to embrace 19th-century American Victoriana. Doan tackles the long-forgotten harp guitar and a vast stable of Victorian-era instruments, including the toy piano, with its plinking kidlike sounds, and piccolo trumpet, as well as a pleasing novelty blend of strings such as mando-bass, autoharp, and parlor guitar. Songs are craftily assembled and arranged as groupings such as Carols of Kings, Carols of Night, Carols of Bells, and Farewells. Altogether enjoyable,Wrapped in Whiteembodies age-old tradition, celebrates nostalgia, and captures the spirit of the holiday's peace, warmth, and ritual.--Paige La Grone