CD Reviews
CD Review: Living in Grace (Cavaliers Quartet)
The latest CD from the Cavaliers starts with a song I’d not heard for a few years. Bass singer Wayne O’Neal sings lead on “Do It By the Book.”
“Living in Grace” is a mid-tempo song written by Rodney Griffin.
I really like “Dying to Live Again,” a powerful reminder that death is not forever. Christians really are dying to live again.
“It Takes Faith” reminds us that it takes both a little hard work and a lot of faith to please God.
“I Know My Redeemer Lives” is a story in song about Job. No matter what the devil throws at you, remind him that your Redeemer lives.
“Nothing but the Blood” is an uptempo song about the blood of Christ.
The tempo slows down for “Grace Had Mercy On Me” which was written by baritone singer, Anthony O’Neal.
“What a Wonderful Change” is a song of testimony.
The CD ends with songs of worship: “You are the Only One” and “Not to Us O Lord.”
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: The Millennial Collection (Squire Parsons)
Squire Parsons recently put together a CD which features 20 of his most requested songs.
This CD begins with a live version of his popular song, “Sweet Beulah Land.” He’s backed up on this song by the Mountain Glory Gospel Choir.
“Dancing Shoes” was a new song to me but a good one.
“A Mighty Long Way to Go” is an uptempo song which talks about the road to Heaven. “I’ve got a mighty long way to go but such a short time to get there.”
After that, the tempo slows down as Squire sings “You’re Not Alone.”
“I’ve Been Born Again” is an uptempo song of gratitude for being born again.
“I’m Sending a Prayer Your Way” is a reminder that God answers prayer. I don’t know about you but it’s always an encouragement to me to know someone’s taking the time to pray for me.
“The Master of the Sea Medley” contains portions of several old songs: “The Master of the Sea,” “The Greatest of All Miracles,” “He Came to Me,” and “I Stand Amazed.”
“I’ve Got a Reservation” is a song that I used to listen to in the 1980s but I’ve never gotten tired of it. The message is timeless, and I’m very glad the song was included on this CD.
Next is “Singing Through the Fire.”
Then he sings “Look for Me at Jesus’ Feet.” I’ve heard this song sung so many times by various groups but Squire does a great job communicating the message in this song.
“The Day of the Lord” is a song of rejoicing as we finally reach Heaven’s shore.
As the title implies, “Sing Praise” is a song of praise.
“It’s in the Savior’s Hands” reminds us that we have nothing to worry about since our Savior has it all under control.
I first heard “Help is on the Way” a number of years ago when it was recorded by Gold City.
“America, Keep Holding to God’s Hand” is a needed challenge to our country to do just that.
One of my favorite songs on this recording is “Beneath This Armor.” I loved it when Gold City sang it but Squire does a great job as well. “I may have lost a fight but I’ve not lost the battle.”
“The Day Love Became Grace” is a beautiful story of the crucifixion put into song.
Another of my favorite Squire Parson songs is “I’ll Have a New Song.”
“I’ll Just Go On Home” talks about Squire being on a hunting trip with his dad. His dad got tired and went home while the others finished their hunt. The second verse talks about saying goodbye to loved ones but reminds us we will see them again. They’ve simply gone on Home to wait for us there.
“I Know He Lives” is a song of faith and victory. I don’t have to see Christ’s mighty works to know He lives.
CD Review: Born to Serve the Lord (Archie Watkins and Smoky Mountain Reunion)
When I first started listening to southern gospel music, I loved hearing the Inspirations, at the time consisting vocally of Archie Watkins, Troy Burns, Eddie Deitz, and Mike Holcomb. (Well, Eddie wasn’t actually with the group at the time but the radio station still played songs where he was featured.) Archie, Troy and Eddie have recently reunited with Jack Laws and Marlin Shubert (also former Inspirations members) to form Archie Watkins and Smoky Mountain Reunion.
The song begins with the title track, “Born to Serve the Lord.” I love this song as it’s a reminder that God created me for a purpose–to serve Him.
Next is a song all southern gospel fans should know, “Just a Little Talk With Jesus.”
I like all the songs on this project but there are several I especially like, one of which is “Bucket at the Well” which features Eddie Deitz and depicts God’s grace and forgiveness in a way that one can picture so vividly. I’ve been a fan of Eddie’s for about 25 years and I’m so glad he’s back on the road. He’s on the list of people I really hope to meet this side of Heaven.
Troy Burns sings “Your Tears are Touching God.” I tend to think of tears as a sign of weakness and maybe they are but it’s that weakness that often brings us to place of brokenness and surrender. That’s what God is looking for.
Jack Laws sings “Family Bible.”
“Bound for That City” is a mid-tempo song with an Inspirations feel to it. Quartet fans will enjoy it as it features the tenor and bass.
I first saw Troy Burns sing “Jesus is Coming Soon” in 2010 at the Primitive Quartet’s Hominy Valley Singing. He sings as one who believes what he’s singing. Sometimes I think faster songs go by so quickly people miss the meaning. However, the truth is that Jesus is coming soon. Are you ready?
Eddie sings “The Next Step” which is a great follow-up to “Jesus is Coming Soon.” “The next touch you feel, He could be blessing your soul.” Are you shouting yet?
Marlin Shubert sings “Must I Go and Empty Handed?”
Troy does a great job on “How Great Thou Art” and hits probably the highest note I’ve heard him hit.
This is one CD I don’t think I’ll ever get tired of.
CD Review: Family Ties (Wilburn & Wilburn)
One of the most talked about new groups in southern gospel music last year was Wilburn & Wilburn. Most southern gospel fans will remember Jonathan Wilburn from his days with the Wilburns and Gold City but he is now singing with his son, Jordan to produce one of the greatest sounding duos I’ve heard in a long time.
“It’s a Shore Thing” is a well-written song using sailing terms to talk about the surety of our arrival on Heaven’s shore.
Jordan sings “Jesus Will,” reminding us of all the things Jesus will do for us if we will look to Him. “When nobody else understands how you feel, Jesus will.” Isn’t that wonderful?
“Devil Be Gone” reminds the devil that we serve a God who’s greater and we’ve got no time for the devil’s tactics. An uptempo song which puts satan in his place.
Jonathan Wilburn sings a song of thanks to his “Mama.”
“You’ll Still Be There” has a bluegrass feel which showcases the talent these men have. With the variety of songs, there should be something to please everyone on this recording.
“A Cross Became My Saving Grace” needs no description but would be a great single.
“I John” is a fun song with Jordan singing the lead in the beginning. Then Jordan and Jonathan take turns toward the end. They added some vocalists to this one including a bass singer. I bet this is fun in concert.
“Things I’ve Never Done” is an uptempo song featuring Jonathan.
Next is the title song, “Family Ties.”
“Let’s All Go Down to the River” starts out slow and then speeds up. I first heard John Starnes sing this song in the ’80s so I was thrilled to hear someone re-release it.
The CD ends with the first single from the CD, “I Ain’t Giving Up On Jesus” which is #18 on the Singing News Chart for February.
CD Review: The Good Old Days (Joel Lance)
A couple years ago, I came across a website for a man by the name of Joel Lance. There was something about the look and the “feel” of his website that I was curious and requested one of his CDs. I was impressed. For someone who’s not well-known, Mr. Lance has released a quality recording.
Joel has a pure country voice with pure country music accompanying him. I’m not a fan of background vocalists but the one on this recording adds to the sound instead of detracting.
The CD begins with the title song, “The Good Old Days.” The title is self-explanatory and is one those my age and older will appreciate reminiscing with. It also points out that these are no longer “the good old days.”
“Jesus Picked Me Up” is Joel’s testimony of the day Jesus found him.
“Mama Go Home” is a song from Jesus’ perspective talking to his mama from the cross.
“The Potter’s Wheel” is about a homeless man who finds Jesus.
“Don’t Give Up on Me” is the one song on this recording not written by Joel. It talks about how often we fail God but asks God not to “give up on me.”
Next is the uptempo song, “Dead Raising, Life Changing Savior.” The first verse talks about the demons Jesus cast into the swine. The second verse tells the story of Lazarus. We still serve a Savior who sets people free.
“My Name is Mercy” is a ballad talking about how hopeless we were until God’s mercy rescued us.
“I’ll Keep the Key” talks about Jesus’ crucifixion and how, although satan thought he won the battle, Jesus kept the key!
“Holiness for Me” talks about the importance of living a holy life.
“Reap What You Sowed” is a thought-provoking song, challenging us to be careful how we live for we will reap what we sow.
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: The Journey (Brothers Forever)
Brothers Forever recently put together a CD to give a glimpse into their journey the past few years. With songs from previous recordings (By Request, Sheltered, and Side by Side: Live in Illinois), this is a definitely a “Best of” collection.
I love this group for their worship songs so it was perfect that they chose “You Alone Are Worthy” to begin the CD.
Gary Ballew sings lead on “God is Good,” the song the Gaither Vocal Band made popular a while back.
Next is their signature song, “I Feel a Blessing Coming On.”
Curtis Hagy sings “I Am Him,” the story of the Samaritan woman who found Jesus.
“More Than That” talks about how God is so much more than anything we can say. His mercy and grace knows no end. He’s so much “more than that.”
When I’m discouraged, I sometimes turn on “You Are Loved” and feel God’s arms around me. It’s a great reminder that God loves me no matter what I’ve done or what I’m going through.
“Whenever I Speak His Name” is another worship song that Gary sings.
“What More Could He Have Done” talks about what Christ went through, leaving Heaven to come to earth and be persecuted and crucified. “What more could He do to save our dying soul?” I’m so thankful for everything Christ has done for me.
“I Can’t Forget the Day” is an uptempo song remembering the day “my burdens rolled away.”
It’s hard to choose a favorite song on this project but the one that is probably at the top of my list is “My Home.” I’ve played this song a lot this past year as I find myself longing for Home more these days.
Other songs include: “The Lighthouse,” “Rest Assured,” “The Blood Will Never Lose Its Power,” and “He Saw it All.”
CD Review: It is Time (The Troy Burns Family)
Many of you will remember Troy Burns from the years he sang with the Inspirations or, more recently, with Archie Watkins and Smoky Mountain Reunion but some may not realize he now also sings with his wife Tammy and son Trey as The Troy Burns Family. This past year, Troy recorded his first CD with his family and I’ve really enjoyed it.
“Come Sweet Anointing” is a song I first heard the Ruppes sing years ago and Troy does well conveying this prayer in song.
“The Coming” is an uptempo song which talks of Christ’s return. The music is different on this one. To me, it sounds like a mixture of Hebrew and bluegrass. Very cool.
My favorite song on this CD is “The One We’ve Been Looking For.” Part of what I love are the lyrics which I can so relate to: dealing with daily stresses, yet reminding myself that this is not my final Home. My Father’s prepared a place much better than this. Someone was talking the other day about how everyone is looking for Heaven whether they realize it or not. Every disappointment we go through shows how far away we are but one day what we only dream about now will be reality. I, for one, can’t wait to run into the arms of “the One [I’ve] been looking for.”
I also like “The Crown” which gives us a glimpse into Heaven where “the crown of thorns He wore is traded for a crown of gold.”
“It is Time” begins describing the feeling of standing at the grave of a man who just died. Then it turns to looking up to Heaven as Jesus returns in the clouds and the dead in Christ live again.
Okay. Maybe I don’t just have one favorite on this CD. “Crucified with Christ” is not a new song but still has a powerful message. As I listen to it now, it makes me want to shout. I’m so thankful it’s not I that lives but Christ who lives in me.
“Isn’t It Grace” explains how we don’t have God’s love because we deserve it but because of His grace. With that knowledge, we can go on.
Other songs included are: “My God is Watching Over Me,” “He Only Sees the Blood,” and “When Mama Prayed.” Clips of the songs on this CD may be heard on their website.
CD Review: It’s Wonderful (Primitive Quartet)
A year ago, I reviewed the He Lifted Me Out CD by the Primitive Quartet. I did not intentionally choose to review It’s Wonderful exactly one year later but it’s kinda neat it worked out that way.
“What a Time in Heaven” is an uptempo song with a similar tune to “Cane River Revival.” You can hear the banjo on this one.
Jeff sings the easy-listening “It’s Wonderful” which talks about the blessing of knowing God. It truly is wonderful just to know Him.
Reagan Riddle wrote and sings lead on “He’s the Same God” which is sung acapella. I love the last line: “He’s done everything that He said He would do but come back and get me, and He’ll do that too.”
Reagan also wrote the mid-tempo song, “He’s Holy.”
Mike Riddle sings, “I Don’t Have to See the Tomb” which is their current radio single. In my opinion, it was the perfect song for them to release as a single.
“He’s Coming, He’s Coming” talks about the Lord’s soon return.
Squire Parsons wrote, “I’m Longing for Home.”
They also included two patriotic songs on this recording, both of which were written by Reagan: “The Greatest Nation” and “American Soldier.”
This is a pretty typical Primitive Quartet recording but, for those who love the quartet as I do, you’ll enjoy this CD as well.
