5 star
CD Review: Sweet Songs About Heaven (Blackwood Brothers)
The Blackwood Brothers recently released a new project with Daywind. If you liked the old Blackwood Brothers Quartet with James and Cecil Blackwood, you will enjoy this CD.
“Goodbye, Egypt (Hello, Canaanland)” is a moderate tempo song, typical of the kind of quartet song we would expect from the old Blackwood Brothers.
“Swing Low Sweet Chariot/Swing Down Chariot” takes me back to my earliest memories of hearing the Blackwood Brothers sing these songs. It’s amazing how much Jimmy Blackwood sounds like his dad, James. I didn’t realize until writing this review that Jimmy recently retired so I’m especially blessed to have what will apparently be his last recording for a while.
Tenor Wayne Little sang, “Sweet Songs About Heaven.”
“That’s What Was Good About the Good Old Days” is an uptempo song about, as the title says, the good old days.
Jimmy sang, “It Is No Secret.”
One of my favorites is “I’ve Heard About a City/Walk Dem Golden Stairs,” featuring bass singer Butch Owens. It’s the kind of quartet song and singing I love.
“That’s What Heaven Will Be” is a moderate tempo “happy” song.
“Declaration of Dependence” is a powerful song about our dependence on the Lord. We can do nothing apart from him.
I love the song “Someone to Care,” and the Blackwoods did a good, heartfelt arrangement of this song as well.
“The Devil Can’t Harm a Praying Man” is another uptempo song that must be fun in concert.
CD Review: Indescribable (The Chigger Hill Boys & Terri)
With my recent posts on praise and worship, it seems the perfect time to review the latest release from The Chigger Hill Boys & Terri. At first glance, I really wasn’t sure what to expect from a bluegrass group performing praise & worship songs but I have really enjoyed this CD.
Songs included are: “Indescribable,” “Mighty to Save,” “Enough,” “Amazing Grace (My Chains Are Gone),” “Lead Me to the Cross,” “Revelation Song,” and “Are You Prayin’ Hard.”
A few favorites are:
“From the Inside Out,” “Your Name,” “How Deep the Father’s Love,” and “In Christ Alone.” I like this last song anyway but the way they start out slow and acapella and then pick up the tempo slightly makes this a great arrangement.
CD Review: Modern Pioneers (Song of David)
“When Love comes to town, He brings hope and joy and laughter. When Love comes to town, He gives the brokenhearted peace.” Those lyrics sum up what we’re celebrating this weekend, doesn’t it. Because Christ arose, He is still bringing hope and joy and laughter. He is still giving the brokenhearted peace. He still moves mountains and pours out His grace because He lives! This uptempo song opens the new CD from Song of David.
David Bryan then put together a progressive version of Dottie Rambo’s song, “The Holy Hills.”
The tempo then slows down for “Water in the Wilderness.”
Next is the title song: “Modern Pioneers” which talks about our pilgrimage to Heaven.
“The Sound of the Sun (Going Down)” has a country feel which tells how “When I get over-burdened, I just pause to listen to the sound of the sun going down.” It is possible to find peace in the midst of the storm.
“One Step (at a Time)” has a Crabb Family sound. Sometimes God asks us to just take one step at a time and let Him lead the way.
“When I Leave it in Your Hands” was written by Ann Downing and Dwight Lyle. The greatest peace really does come from leaving it in God’s hands.
“Angels Watching” is a great reminder that we always have angels watching over us. We have nothing to fear.
Ashley Cook Mackey joins David in singing “This Storm.” “Don’t let this storm go to waste.” This is a prayer of mine often. If I must go through storms, I pray they accomplish God’s purposes.
“Power in His Name” begins by talking about Jesus’ birth. Then it talks about today, if you are going through trials, there is still power in Jesus’ name. “Over mountains, through valleys, in the city or on the plains … when the world needs a miracle, there’s power in His name.” It then breaks into a chorus of “Crown Him Lord of All.” A great song.
Five of the ten songs on this CD were written by David who is very gifted at writing. I realize this may be too progressive for some people but I was impressed with the songs and the heart with which he sings. His style took me back to the days of listening to the group Harvest.
CD Review: Journey (Libbi Perry Stuffle)
The long-awaited solo project from one of southern gospel’s favorite ladies, Libbi Perry Stuffle, has finally been released. Great songs and guest appearances by Jeff & Sheri Easter, Gerald Wolfe, Mark Trammell, Wayne Haun, Dailey & Vincent, Randy Perry, Debra Perry Reed, and Sisters are reasons you will want to add this to your collection.
“March Around the Throne” is a great song to begin the CD. A lively, uptempo song with a tambourine. As I listen, I can picture dancing at Christ’s throne in worship of Him.
The pace then slows down to a heart-felt rendition of “Now I Have Everything.”
Long-time listeners of the Perrys will remember the song, “Still Blessed” but the message is timeless.
A highlight for me was “Daddy Sang Bass/Reunited” on which Randy Perry and Debra Perry Reed joined Libbi. It starts with an old recording of “Daddy Sang Bass” and then flows into “Reunited.” I remember the Perrys with Tracy, Libbi, Randy and Debra so I was eager to hear this song and still get blessed listening to it.
Two songs I was especially glad to see included on this project are “God Walks the Dark Hills” and “Holy Hills of Heaven.” With Vestal Goodman and Dottie Rambo in Heaven, it’s nice the songs are still living and Libbi does a great job on them.
Dailey & Vincent join Libbi on “Jesus, Hold My Hand.”
Another song that really ministers to me is “I Fail, but I’m Not a Failure.” I need to be reminded of that at times.
“Did I Mention” is a song of testimony to God’s faithfulness. “I love Him. That’s all I want to say” pretty much sums it up.
“Mountaintop for Me” is another song of encouragement. No matter how long the valley or how deep the river, rest assured that God has a mountaintop for you.
“His Grace Will Lead Me Home” talks about the Christian’s journey, and what a wonderful journey it is.
“Broken Heart Sings the Sweetest Song” is a very well-written song of encouragement reminding us that “there is hope.”
CD Review: Live in Memphis (LeFevre Quartet)
I have the blessing this evening of reviewing my favorite LeFevre Quartet project to date. I tend to like “Live” projects anyway but Mike LeFevre, David Staton, Jeremy Easley and Keith Inman outdid themselves with the songs and performances on this CD.
The CD begins with the toe-tapping songs, “Let Me Tell You ‘Bout Jesus” and “I Wouldn’t Take Nothin’ For My Journey Now.”
Mike sings “I Don’t Know Why,” a song I grew up hearing Andrae Crouch sing.
“Hold On” is another upbeat song.
Then they slow it down with the worship song, “Take My Life.”
Next is a slightly sped up version of “Robe of White.” Jeremy presents a good delivery of this old Gold City song.
Keith Inman sings “Last One Worthy” which tells how Jesus would willingly go to the cross just to die for the last one worthy.
“You’re Never Too Far Away” is a beautiful song of encouragement for those who have wandered away but desire to return to God.
In honor of the LeFevres, the quartet sang a medley consisting of “When the Gates Swing Open,” “I Love to Call Upon His Name” (one of my favorites), “I’ve Come Too Far to Look Back,” and “Stepping on the Clouds.”
“Living in the Light of God” is an old Teddy Huffam song and is one song on this project that I’ll sometimes play just for this song.
While introducing the last song on the project, Mike talked about a poll which stated that 13% of professed Christians believe the Bible is the inspired, infallible Word of God. I know there’s a difference between claiming to be a Christian and actually being one but I would have thought the majority of those who claim to know God would give more credence to the Bible.
The last song is “Jesus Saves.” I saw them sing this in concert a few months ago and the response was tremendous. What a powerful message and a great way to end an evening.
CD Review: Summer Rains Have Gone (Channing Eleton)
Up until a few months ago, I always thought of Channing Eleton as one of the best piano players in the business. However, when I heard he released a CD where he not only played but also sang and wrote or co-wrote 6 of the 10 songs, I knew this would be a top notch project. I was not disappointed.
The CD starts with the uptempo “Days,” discussing the importance of prioritizing and focusing on the things that matter. “Starting now, I plan to make the most of every one of those days” pretty much sums it up.
“The Harvest” talks about the seasons of life and how quickly they change. However, no season is unimportant.
Next is Channing’s great new single “Up on This Ridge.” (See video below.)
My favorite is probably still “Is Not This the Land of Beulah?” I love the message of that song but Channing’s arrangement is superb. It starts out pretty typical, a moderate tempo and by the third verse, picks up the tempo, afterward going to an instrumental break where you can especially hear the keyboard.
“Song and Dance” is a song about David, creatively written by Gabe Scott and Andrew Peterson.
“Looking to Jesus” is a Teddy Huffam song I hadn’t heard before but I love it. A soulful toe tapper with a great message.
“Creation Song (Glory to the Lamb)” is a song of praise, which brings you into the presence of God as if you were reading the Psalms or Revelation where the saints are worshiping around the throne.
“As We Wait” is a great follow-up to “Creation Song.” Written by Channing Eleton and Buddy Mullins, this song is about waiting on God and inviting His presence “as we wait.”
“Just This Song” has a 2-minute prelude and is probably my second favorite song on this CD, maybe mostly because it says how I feel much of the time. Nothing I do or say comes close to being enough to thanking God for everything He’s done for me.
Channing recently released his first concept music video. Since it’s also his single off this recording, I thought I’d share it with you. I hope you enjoy it.
CD Review: Blue Skies Coming (The Perrys)
I’ve been looking forward to reviewing this CD since I received it months ago. I started listening to the Perrys in the mid-1980s. In the ’90s, I’d hear a few songs here and there but didn’t keep up with them much. The last few years, I’ve been listening to them again and I can say unequivocally that they’re as good as ever.
The CD begins with the title song that makes you want to shout if you’re a shouter. No matter how dark things are, there are “Blue Skies Coming.” I’m so thankful for that.
I absolutely love “Celebrate Me Home.” When David Wilkerson died, that is the song I played over and over. For me, it’s two-fold. At times I think of those who are already Home who I look forward to seeing one day but I also think of the day when I will be Home with the One whom I love above all else.
“Nothing Was Burned but Their Bands” is a fun song which primarily features Tracy, Joseph and Bryan. Libbi comes in at the end to tear the chorus up.
“Rejoice, My Children, Rejoice” is a slow song which the group sings together on the first verse and then Libbi sings the second verse. “Rejoice, my children, rejoice for your name is recorded today.” I feel like shouting again. 🙂
Joseph sings “Grace Doesn’t Remember” and “Sounds Good to Me.”
This CD was the first I really heard Bryan Walker but he’s a great addition. He sings “He Loves to Save” and “The End of the Aisle.”
It’s hard to find a favorite song on here but I really enjoy “Every Time I Need Him.” For those who know me, you’ll know that means it’s a fast song. The Perrys make uptempo songs come to life.
I can relate to “I Know What I’m Singing About.” Compared to others, I don’t feel very intelligent but I can sing about what God’s goodness all day.
I don’t give out many 5-star ratings but the Perrys have once again outdone themselves with a superb recording of meaningful songs.
CD Review: Love Came Calling (Triumphant Quartet)
The latest CD from Triumphant Quartet begins with a song I remember listening to the McGruders sing: “Saved by Grace.” Being a Priscilla McGruder fan, I wasn’t sure what I’d think of another group recording the song but Scott Inman does a great job, keeping the feel of the original version. I love turning it on and cranking it up. Then I start it over.
“Love Came Calling” is another song on which Scott’s featured. It’s a mid-tempo ballad with a great message. Triumphant Quartet posted on Facebook today that this song is going number 1 on the Singing News chart. Congratulations, Guys! Keep God at the center of what you’re doing and He will reward you.
“I Can Take You to the Place” is an uptempo quartet song written by Scott Inman and Dianne Wilkinson.
David Sutton sings “Mercy, Forgiveness and Grace.” As he so often does, David puts feeling into a meaningful song, making it easy to focus on the lyrics.
Eric Bennett sings “The Undertaker,” which was written by McCray Dove.
Rodney Griffin wrote “Holy Hands,” sung by Clayton Inman. It’s hard to pick a favorite song on this project but this would definitely be up there. This could partly be due to the fact that I often think about the fact that God’s arms are holding me. I rely on those arms, and this song talks about how the great, powerful God who set the stars in place takes the time to hold me and lead me in the way I should go.
The final song, “You’ll Find Me There,” was written by Scott Inman and Joseph Habedank and is a toe tapper that will excite you if you listen to the words. Maybe I should have reviewed this in the morning instead of when it’s getting close to my bedtime. 🙂
Other songs which will be familiar to long-time southern gospel fans are: “Movin’ Up to Gloryland,” “Jesus is Your Ticket to Heaven,” and “We Shall Overcome.”
CD Review: Jesus Use Me (Stewart Varnado)
I never used to like instrumental CDs. I don’t know if I’m getting old or if CDs are getting better but I’ve come across a couple lately that I actually enjoy. This CD from Stewart Varnado is one of those. It’s not a background CD but one you can actually get into. It covers the gamut of toe-tapping to worshipful to just melodic such as “Tell My Friends.” I love that song anyway and, as I listen, I can sway back and forth pretending I’m Lily Weatherford singing, “For I will be there too.” 🙂
Maybe that’s the reason I love this CD. I know most of the songs and, although the arrangements are creative, they are recognizable so I can sing along. The songs included are:
“Count Your Blessings,” “Come and Dine,” “I’ve Come Too Far,” “There’s a Light Guiding Me,” “Jesus Use Me,” “Jesus Hold My Hand,” “Tell My Friends,” “God on the Mountain,” “Unworthy,” and “I’ve Got That Old Time Religion.”
CD Review: Encore (The LeFevre Quartet)
The LeFevre Quartet recently put together a recording of songs that you will remember from years gone by but which continue to be favorites of young and old alike. I love the arrangements which are personal to the quartet and yet is reminiscent of eras gone by.
When writing a review, I generally try to pick out at least a few songs to specifically mention and say something about but it’s hard with this recording as I love them all. The songs they chose are:
“I Wouldn’t Take Nothing for my Journey Now,” “New Shoes,” “When the Gates Swing Open,” “Hold On,” “Then I Met the Master,” “Living in the Light of God,” “The Coming of the Lord,” “I Don’t Know Why,” “I Wanna Be Just Like My Lord,” and “Robe of White.” As a Brian Free fan, I’m not sure I would like another group’s rendition of this last song but I’m very glad the LeFevre Quartet included it on this recording. A great job from a first-class quartet.
