“It’s Christmas Time,” Jeff Parker’s festive follow-up to his acclaimed solo album “Go Parker!,” delivers a heartwarming blend of bluegrass and country holiday classics with a touch of contemporary flair. Released on October 29, 2013, by Lonesome Day Records (catalog number LDR-030), the album was recorded earlier that year at Skaggs Family Records studio in Nashville, with the debut single “Step Into Christmas” dropping on October 1 to build seasonal anticipation. This timeframe positioned it as a timely holiday release, capturing Parker’s smooth, versatile vocals honed from his role as mandolinist and vocalist with Dailey & Vincent. Executive-produced by label head Randall Deaton, the project showcases polished production that balances traditional acoustic elements with subtle expansions into steel guitar, piano, and drums for a fuller, more accessible sound.

The 10-track album (31 minutes) features an all-star ensemble of bluegrass musicians, with Jeff Parker handling lead vocals, mandolin, and guitar throughout. Banjo duties fall to Jessie Baker, whose driving rolls propel uptempo numbers. Fiddle is provided by B.J. Cherryholmes, adding understated elegance and lively breaks. Seth Taylor and Thomm Jutz share guitar work, delivering crisp, supportive picking. Mark Fain anchors on bass with steady rhythm, while Paul Hollowell contributes piano for a honky-tonk vibe on select tracks. Bob Mummert adds tasteful drums, and Terry Crisp’s steel guitar brings emotional depth to ballads. No additional harmony vocalists are credited, allowing Parker’s rich tenor to shine solo, though layered vocals enhance the choral feel on hymns.

The song selection mixes timeless favorites with fresh interpretations: Elton John’s “Step Into Christmas” kicks off with energetic banjo; the Louvin Brothers’ title track offers heartfelt tradition; Bill Castle’s “Birthday of Our King” draws from Larry Sparks’ influence; Elvis-inspired “Blue Christmas” swings with piano; Randy Moore and Perry Rohrer’s “Next Year” poignantly tells of a fallen soldier; Alabama’s “Christmas in Dixie” evokes southern nostalgia; and classics like “Little Drummer Boy,” “Christmas Time’s a Coming,” “Frosty the Snowman,” and “Away in a Manger” round out the set with cheerful bluegrass arrangements.

Critically, Bluegrass Today praised it as a “thoroughly enjoyable album” with “nicely varied song selection” and “strong musicianship,” noting Parker’s “smooth lead vocals” and the project’s fun, well-executed mix of styles—though purists might note the non-traditional elements. Overall, “It’s Christmas Time” highlights Parker’s artistry and the ensemble’s synergy, making it a perennial holiday favorite in roots music circles.