I got a CD a day or two ago that has blown me away. From the title, to the cover, to the voices, to the instrumentation, to the overall impact it is a top-notch example of what Christmas music can be when given the right treatment by the right artists. The CD in question is Running with the Shepherds by the group Bloodroot. Many who read this web log will know the artists personally as Ellie Hjemmet and Rhodyjane Meadows. I was privileged to collaborate with Ellie for quite a while in the group Bob and Ellie, but we were never able to produce something of this consistent quality. Running with the Shepherds is a prime expression of the latent promise always present in these talented performers. They are lucky to have found this means of expression.

One of the most unique aspects of this CD is that it is a Christmas CD that can easily be enjoyed at any time of the year. Although the songs have a Christmas theme, all of life can also be viewed through such a lens. Bloodroot has done the improbable by selecting and arranging Christmas songs as something other than traditional carols to be shared in the dead of winter. One cut, “Pictures from the Camp of Refugees,” an original by Ellie’s husband and sister-in-law, is an excellent example. I think this is one of the finest songs ever written and certainly not one restricted to the Christmas season. I’ll tease you with one verse, but you need to buy the CD to hear the rest:

It’s patience waiting most of all
140 days between
The time leaves turn brown in fall
And warm winds bring them back and green (Murray and Dodge)

The CD is Running with the Shepherds and the group is Bloodroot. Do yourself a big favor and buy it. It is hot of the press, and it is one super CD. — Bob Tatum

If you are in the neighborhood, Sound Traveler will be playing Radisson Resort at the Port from noon until four as part of our Christmas Lunch Tour. We’d love to see you there.

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6 Comments to “SongTravelin’: 12.22.10 — Modern Christmas Masterpiece Transcends the Season and Time Itself”

• December 22, 2010 at 9:56 am
  Laurence says:

  This sounds like a CD worth having.
• December 22, 2010 at 10:28 am
  Patty says:

  Yes, it is definitely a CD worth having. Some of my favorite CDs are those which I have received from independent artists, and this one has already become one of my favorites! Check it out!
• December 22, 2010 at 1:10 pm
  Kay says:

  Ellie is being so kind as to send me a couple. Can’t wait to hear it!
• December 22, 2010 at 10:30 pm
  Ellie Hjemmet says:

  Dear Bob, I will treasure this review forever! No one could write one that I would care more about. Thanks so much for the beautiful writing and heartfelt enthusiasm. I’m making a website and would love your permission to post it there.
  Have a lovely Christmas!
• December 23, 2010 at 8:32 am
  Bob says:

  Of course you can use it however you wish. I am a careful listener, and I don’t give praise about music just to be polite. This is a special piece of work.
• January 9, 2011 at 7:18 am
  Andrea Beth says:

  Bloodroot is great, this is a Christmas treasure. And the sound of the African American spiritual is a wonderful addition to the Harp, Celtic and Appalachian sounds. What beautiful voices these women have.