No comments about Essential Bluegrass Gospel.

3 comments about Stained Glass Hour: Bluegrass and Old-Timey Gospel Music.

1. This was released "way back" in 1991, so I was not sure what I would find. Anyways, I was pleasantly surprised and out of the 24 songs, there were 9 that I gave 5 stars and downloaded to my MP3 player. That's a pretty good average for a single CD! Many of the selections were unique in that they were not "new" versions of old songs.



2. I pulled "Stained Glass Hour" off a dusty shelf for the first time in years, recently. I'd forgotten just how special this CD is. I consider a compilation CD good if it has four or five keeper tracks, excellent with eight to ten. I find an astonishing 15 out of the 24 songs here worth a trip out to my mp3 player.

   I can't help but tap my foot and join in on the choruses of the infectious bluegrass bounce of J.D. Crowe & The New South on "Crying Holy", the Bluegrass Cardinals on "Journey to My Savior's Side", and the Bluegrass Album Band's "Talk It Over With Him". There's also quiet, thoughtful witnessing for those in spiritual crisis in Boone Creek's "Drifting Too Far From the Shore". Another highlight is the plaintive, unadorned vocals balanced with Allen Shelton's beautiful banjo line in "Here Today, Gone Tomorrow"; Hazel Dickens reminds us that life and its earthly blessings are brief and fleeting, but the eternal beacon of the Promised Land can guide us through the rocky shoals. Two special favorites of mine among the many other gems found here: the crystal clear four-part harmony of the Johnson Mountain Boys in the rapture song, "Shouting in the Air" and the aching vocal blend of Ricky Skaggs and friends in "Talk About Sufferin'" Different media drive the message home to different worshippers: for me, friends, any one of these songs carries more weight than a half hour sermon from the pulpit!

   This CD has my highest recommendation for fans of traditional gospel, bluegrass or old-timey music. You will surely find several special tracks to call your own.




3. This is an excellent selection of original and heart warming songs. You will be spiritually blessed listening to these. The artists are absolutely superb! Highly recommended!

2 comments about No Depression: What It Sounds Like, Vol. 1.

1. As someone who grew up in the 70's and 80's, I was turned off country by the Conway Twitty/Ronnie Milsap style cheese that dominated country radio. Unfortunately, country radio has not improved at all since then. Today, all that seems to distinguish "country" from the prepackaged music played by pop and rock stations is a little twangy Southern flavoring (as opposed to the hip-hop flavoring that makes today's pop-rock "edgy"), as well as artists for whom cowboy hats are apparently a part of their anatomy.

   Thankfully, the editors of "No Depression" magazine have done music lovers a tremendous favor by reminding us that great American music never really went away, even if it is largely ignored. Covering every sub-genre from country-rock (Whiskeytown's "Faithless Street") to honky-tonk (Doug Sahm's "Cowboy Peyton Place") to straight-ahead folk (Neko Case's "Thrice All American") to heart-breaking ballads (Allison Moorer's "Is Heaven Good Enough for You" and Kasey Chamber's "Dam") to gospel (The Carter Family's "No Depression in Heaven"), "No Depression" consistently hits high note after high note. This disc proves that real country has nothing to do with cowboy hats or NASCAR, and everything to do with real music and real human emotions. If any great country stations still existed, this is what they would sound like.

   I can't wait for Vol. 2.




2. After nine years of writing about music, the editors of "No Depression" have cut out the wordy indirections with this thirteen track essay on alternative country music. No doubt they've been pieced together compilations like this for friends, but now those outside the immediate circle now get to share in their obsession. This thirteen track collection has the breadth needed to stake out a genre as hazy as "No Depression." There are founders (The Carter Family) and legends (Johnny Cash, Doug Sahm, Emmylou Harris), alt.country darlings (Whiskeytown, Robbie Fulks, Alejandro Escovedo, Lucinda Williams) and artists from the various spokes of the alt.country umbrella. And as if that weren't enough, there are frictional sparks thrown off by several surprising collaborations.

   It's fitting that the collection opens with one of mainstream country music's biggest stars and most ornery individualists, Johnny Cash. The combination of Cash's riveting baritone, Willie Nelson's song of a murderous preacher, and Seattle's finest grunge-rock musicians (Soundgarden guitarist Kim Thayil, Nirvana's bassist Krist Novaselic, and Alice in Chains' dummer Sean Kinney) is just the sort of alchemy that frees country music's essence from Nashville's commercial constrictions. The battle between John Carter Cash's acoustic 12-string and Thayil's storming electric provides truly magnificent accompaniment to Nelson's tale of temptation.

   Alison Moorer's "Is Heaven Good Enough For You" provides a compelling segue, tagging off on the preacher's theme to introduce a moving eulogy for Moorer's mother. It's an incredibly confident and personal turn for a debut album (this is drawn from Moorer's 1998 "Alabama Song"), and features superbly wrought harmony singing. It's a perfect example of how major labels (MCA in this case) can innovate on the edges of their commercial inclinations. Buddy Miller's "Does My Ring Burn Your Finger," provides another side to that coin, having been turned into a hit single by Lee Ann Womack. The latter couldn't muster the deep soul of this original, but showed off the sheer quality of Miller's songwriting.

   Whiskeytown's "Faithless Street" finds poster boy Ryan Adams summing up much of the alt.country experience with Gram Parsons' styled anguish, and the declaration, "So I started this damn country band / `Cause punk rock was too hard to sing." The combination of twanging guitars, bending steel and Caitlin Cary's old-timey fiddle lines show off several of the flavors included in the No Depression rubric.

   Segueing once again, Adams wasn't the only artist who'd gravitated from punk rock to country. Alejandro Escovedo, having started out in The Nuns and crossing genres with Rank and File, settled in by founding the Austin-based True Believers, and subsequently recording a series of solo albums. Escovedo's "Five Hearts Breaking" shows how well he writes with the troubadour's touch and human detail of Springsteen and Zevon.

   Neko Case's "Thrice All American" is a moving waltz-time ode to her hometown of Tacoma, WA. The near-jewel of the Pacific Northwest (Seattle won the railhead and the battle was over) has always struggled for identity in the shadow of the nearby Emerald City, and with dwindling input for its pulp-mill, the downtown has never seen the resurgence city planners continually hope for. Tacoma's residents struggle similarly, and Case, having moved to California, sings with a dollop of regret.

   Robbie Fulks' "Parallel Bars" shows off the sort of lyrical dexterity that (once-upon-a-time) made Roger Miller a star. Unfortunately, Nashville was no longer in the mood for this sort of cleverness in the mid-90s, leading to Fulks' exasperated kiss-off "F*ck This Town." His duet with Austin-based songbird Kelly Willis is full of twang and steel.

   In the end, this collection shows that there isn't actually a "No Depression" sound. Instead, the genre is defined by its ethos, rather than the specifics of its melodies or instrumentation. And in that sense, it's closer to the original roots of country music than the formulized sounds that emanate from Nashville. "No Depression" is the sound of music rendered for communication, rather than commerce. It's music whose emotional detail is found at the surface, heart firmly on sleeve. Some of these artists may have come to country music in reaction to punk rock burnout, but like those steeped in the music from day one, the cathartic channel of these hill-bred sounds is just at home in the big city as it is on the farm.

   The album closes with a trio of tunes that more directly call out their roots. Hayseed (aka Christopher Wyant) duets with Emmylou Harris on the traditional "Farther Along," and a rowdy "mob" of alt.country musicians, including Mark Olson, Victoria Williams, and Greg Leisz sing Mickey Newbury's nostalgic "How I Love Them Old Songs" under the moniker of Hole Dozen. The album ends fitfully with the magazine's monikorial inspiration, The Carter Family's "No Depression." The musical starkness of the Carters provides great contrast to the album's other dozen cuts, but the continuity of emotion and purpose is clear and undeniable.

   Anyone interested in learning what all the fuss about would be well served by this lively and beautifully programmed disc. Those who are already "in the know" will enjoy the opportunity to have No Depression's editors be your DJ for an hour. Now, when's Volume 2 coming out?

5 comments about Closer.

1. I admit, I had not heard of Susan Ashton before this disc, so I only learned aftwerward that she mainly makes christian music, so I believe I can say I am judging this disc solely on its own merit.
   
   I bought this disc after seeing her do a live performance on CMT (Country Music Television). I expected a few nice songs, but go so much more! This is a disc that I have listened to often, and can listen to from start to finish. "Come On Out Of The Rain", and "You're Lucky I Love You" and "Think Of Me" are just pure pop/country gems as good as they come, one of which was released as a single, and the others easily could have been too. "Faith Of The Heart" (from mega-writer Diane Warren) may be recognizable to you from commercials, or you may recall the song being sung by Rod Stewart, but in my opinion much more beautifully done here.
   
   "Our Little World" and "Getaway Car" are relaxing, soulfully beautiful songs that are just pleasing to listen to. "Closer" and "Breathless" are the two most upbeat songs on the disc and break up the tempo perfectly to round out everything else. "Supernatural" is another great song which has since been remade by country star Sara Evans.
   
   As if that wasn't enough, "Shot For The Moon", "Can't Cry Hard Enough", and "I Ain't Gonna Fall For Love Again" for a bit of classic country heart-wrenching, and you get one completely solid disc.
   
   The only disappointing thing is that there has not been a follow up to bolster this "diamond in the rough".
   
   If you like the music of Faith Hill, or Sara Evans, or Martina McBride, give this a listen you will probably like this equally, if not more!
   
   This disc is Out-of-print so buy one from someone before it gets too hard to find!



2. I am not a fan of country music, so it's not really fair for me to rate or review this entire album. But I had to check out what she did to "Can't Cry Hard Enough" as soon as I heard about it. Personally, well... I think Susan Ashton is at her best when she collaborates with others whose style or influence is evident in the work, for example, the vocals she has done on Jim Brickman's albums. The same is true here, "Can't Cry Hard Enough" is by far the best song on this album, mostly due to the fact that it is one of the best songs ever... There are many others I'd love to hear cover this song (Annie Lennox?), but don't settle for any less than the original version by the guy who wrote it (see The Williams Brothers), it's so beautiful and full of emotion (and so different when it's being sung by a man), it's chilling (BTW, remember it on 90210?). Go out and get the real thing. Go... now...



3. I have the first Susan Ashton album ~ and I LOVE it. I felt this CD was just plain 'lacking'. It left me missing the old Susan. Perhaps I just prefer her to remain a Christian artist. After reviewing the lyrics and the album cover I am not impressed. Not something I would like to put in to spend some time alone with God and I could do that with her first album. Sorry but I have to poo poo this album. It's to bad too because I really was hoping to enjoy this one too!



4. So many have commented that Susan Ashton's previous work in the contemporary Christian genre is superior to this crossover release. I agree wholeheartedly, but the previous reviews here amply speak to that.

   The voice is such an incredible gift. It is truly compelling. While I'm not really impressed by the bulk of this album, there are two songs that make it worth owning: "Shot for the Moon" and "Can't Cry Hard Enough". "Shot for the Moon" is a spare yet lush ballad that lets Susan's voice shine, and the ballad "Can't Cry Hard Enough" is a work of art -- the range of emotion here is heartbreaking.

   I hope another album is forthcoming, because it would be a shame if we never hear her sing again. I am so grateful for her career in contemporary Christian music, though -- in my opinion, those releases truly showcase her talent, conviction, and artistry -- they are still some of my very favorite music.




5. As others have said, this is a well done and fun album. Susan Ashton's voice is clear and strong, and it is encouraging to see a Christian artist reaching into the mainstream. I'm sure it doesn't mean that she will leave the Christian message of her previous work behind. Instead, expanding her audience will mean that many more will be willing to hear that message. Enjoy the album, it's worth the purchase.

2 comments about Best Sacred Memories.

1. Finally someone tries to offer hymns that are new to CD. Unfortunately, it suffers the tragic flaw of only having a small collection. This album is worth the buy for two reasons. Many of these songs are not located on the Gaither Collection. Secondly, the liner notes are written by the same man who wrote them Ernie's last album for Capitol, For the 83rd time. The notes provide a useful insight into the life and times, as well as the man itself.



2. When the worst thing I can say about this CD is that it only has ten tracks, that is a good thing. On this CD, Tennessee Ernie Ford sings some of the most beautiful hymns ever written, and he does so as well as I have ever heard. For the person who loves these songs, the versions by Ford are absolutely not to be missed.

No comments about Time.

5 comments about Nightrider.

1. This is one of those releases that never sounds tired or dated (at least to me).Perhaps most famous for "Texas" being the opening track to the "Urban Cowboy" movie this cd simply does not have one weak track on it.Favorites for me though are Franklin Limestone (nice storytelling by Tommy Crain with awesome fills to boot)and Birmingham Blues(again wicked fills with some jazzy comp work along with tasty soloing by both Charlie and Tommy). But the icing on the cake is "Funky Junky".I remember the first time I heard it back in '75 from my buddy's newly purchased album,thinking this was the best example of modern boogie I had ever heard(even better than La Grange). To this day this song never fails to excite me, especially Tommy Crain's solo after the keys. This is buttery Dual Pick-up selected Les Paul tone to die for(nice burble on the low notes, sweet chime with a bit of scream on the high notes, Marshall amps with open back cabs) and killer note choice.But like I said every track is strong and Nightrider will I think please any Southern Rock fan.



2. Once upon a time.... The Charlie Daniels Band actually wrote, performed & recorded amazing songs for the Struggling... Average.... Everyday People of the U.S.
   
   This is the best of that CDB era IMHO (although SADDLE TRAMP is awfully close.)
   
   Too bad he took such a RIGHT TURN.
   Just my 2 cents.



3. I am beyond thrilled that the CDB's "Nightrider" has finally been released on CD. I received my copy yesterday and was driving around air-guitaring to Birmingham Blues like a high schooler again- remembering a number of old Philly Spectrum performances back in the days when the CDB still played such big Northern venues. All my CDB (and other) vinyl still follows me through life, but I haven't been able to listen to it for YEARS. What a treat this disc is; no "Bonus" material necessary.
   
   "Nightrider" is the perfect mix of bluegrass, blues, rock, jazz, and country influences that showcase the musical versatility of this group. Also the first album with Tom Crain and Charlie Hayward and listening to the interplay between Charlie and Tommy- wow! Barry Barnes ("Fire on the Mountain" guitarist) was no slouch but Tommy Crain just takes the band to another level. The dual drumming of Fred Edwards and Don Murray is smooth, seamless, and Allmans worthy and moves the music along effortlessly.
   
   If you are a fan of the Charlie Man and don't have this album you are missing perhaps his best overall studio recording. While most revere "Fire on The Mountain"- and rightly so- for my salt, this has always been the superior record that demonstrates the musical versatility that truly defines The CDB.
   
   If you're new to Charlie's music and are one of the millions who simply know him as a fiddle player- boy, are you in for a pleasant surprise!
   
   Best,
   Rick D



4. NIGHTRIDER is sizzling country-rock by Charlie Daniels and his band. Tom Crain replaces Barry Barnes on guitar here, thus creating the CDB's classic lineup. Not only is the playing hot, but so are the songs, which are just as good as anything on FIRE ON THE MOUNTAIN. You should buy NIGHTRIDER while you're buying FIRE ON THE MOUNTAIN, HIGH LONESOME, SADDLE TRAMP, MILLION MILE REFLECTIONS, FULL MOON, and A DECADE OF HITS.



5. After hearing Full Moon, Fire on The Mountain, Million Mile Reflections, and many more Charlie Daniels Band albums, I have to say this is my favorite. It's the kind of album you could leave on repeat and it just flows. It's the perfect mix of fast and slow songs. Guitar harmonies and fast fiddle action make this a gem. While this is some great music for taking road trips, drinking, and shooting pool, I'm not so sure I understand what previous comments regarding Charlie hoping this album goes away are all about. I personally e-mailed Charlie regarding this and he said he never made such comments. While he is more active in sharing his beliefs today, this music tells me he found God years ago. This soulful hill-billy rock and blues is not created. It's inspired. You do not know Charlie until you bought this album.

No comments about Americana Master Series: The Best of Ricky Skaggs.

No comments about The Speer Family Collection.

3 comments about 20 Greatest All Time Hymns.

1. Slim Whitman's songs and yodelling are loved by millions around the world, but few probably know about Slim's religious faith. He was raised as a church goer. He fell in love with the minister's daughter and they wanted to marry. Slim was just 17 and Geraldine 16. They got permission from both sets of parents. I was just a kid in the 1950s when the headline of a British paper (Slim being very popular there) said: You'll Never See Slim Whitman in Movies,
   They went on to explain that his wife, a minister's daughter, did not mind him becoming famous but she did not want him to ever go to Hollywood and be in movies. Slim VOWED to her that he would never do that. And he never has.
   
   God must have had a purpose for his life (when Slim did not even know what he was going to do in life), for when he was in the Navy during the Second World War, he was at the last minute, transferred from one ship to another. The first ship he was to be on was hit by enemy fire and sunk, all on board died.
   
   Yes, Slim is still married to his 16 year old sweet-heart (as of 2008) - 67 years of happy married.
   
   You'll enjoy these great hymns sung by one of the most popular 20th century singers - Slim Whitman,



2. On some tracks, this CD has an annoying technical problem--occasional crackling sound distortion. (You may be able to hear it on sample track 1.) It's very disappointing, because the selection of hymns is good & he has a wonderful voice.



3. I reall am enjoying this cd, the gospel singing by slim is fantastic.