A cursory glance at the Googles machine informs me that Joshua Bell is a world-class violinist. He's roped in a bunch of fellow musicians to flesh out this record, which has as much range and depth as you're gonna get out of a Christmas album. It starts off haunting, with Alison Krauss bringing soul to Oh God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen. I'll Be Home For Christmas and Greensleeves are two other highlights, the latter featuring Chick Corea. Not upbeat, but this is actually good music.
