Your CD was the perfect touch as my husband and I lingered over our morning coffee. You and the violinist really complement each other into a very nice blend of Christmas melodies.

Just in time for the holidays comes Michael's second all-instrumental album of Christmas classics. He's joined by violin prodigy Brigid McCarthy, who adds an exquisite touch to Michael's lovely piano arrangements. This is the kind of album to play in the background if you are hosting people over the holidays, or just curled up in a blanket on the couch while relaxing by the tree. No flash, just simple, elegant playing guaranteed to soothe the soul when the atmosphere is heavy with Christmas.

Last year, I reviewed Loonan's earlier seasonal release, Piano for the Holidays (reviewed here), and it was a warm and winning instrumental offering of solo piano music. Amazingly, I like A Season of Grace even more--for at least two reasons. First, and more importantly, this new album features an added "voice." In addition to Loonan's wonderful piano playing, Brigid McCarthy (Loonan's pal since the 7th grade!) provides an excellent violin counterpoint, often exchanging phrasing, and switching back and forth on melody and harmony lines. This dialogue presents an intimate and rewarding holiday conversation. I also prefer A Season of Grace because of its more sumptuous length--almost 54 minutes of gentle elegance. This is an exceptional instrumental album. Its 15 tracks cover a broad range of well-known ancient carols and classical bits, including some personal favorites. The tone is low-key, but retains a lyrical intensity throughout. My favorite cuts include "Good King Wenceslas," which features very cool phrasing first presented by Loonan's expressive piano, then picked up by McCarthy's responsive violin, and the always lovely "Lo, how a rose e'er blooming." I could listen to this album endlessly; in fact, I've played it twice through this evening! A Season of Grace would provide a beautiful backdrop for any festive gathering--or for that quiet evening wrapping gifts. Everything works very, very well on this album. Thank you, Michael Loonan and Brigid McCarthy! --Carol Swanson, www.christmasreviews.com