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.
Leave a Reply
