4 comments about House Down the Block.

1. After thoroughly enjoying "Always Never Enough" CD, i was disappointed in this CD ("House Down the Block"). To me none of the songs have the soul and drive of their debut album. Amanda seems a little too comfortable in her voice role.



2. There were days back in the Bill Monroe era where you didn't HAVE to be a monster musician to get a job with a *name* band. The Monroe archives are full of makeshift bands recruited at the last moment on college campuses, etc. The Superstars deservedly received the Lion's share of accolades, but unless your name was Bill or Lester or Earl, it was probably 20 years before anyone made much of an impact on Bluegrass.
   
   Those days are over. It's not difficult to find pick-up jam sessions with three or four mandolin players who could cover-up even vintage Monroe. The country is full of hotshot flatpickers that would make Lester Flatt choke on his thumbpick. The bar has been raised for vocalists as well. While many rough-hewn singers continue the tradition of the Appalachian crooners of 60 years ago, more of the big names in current Bluegrass have been transformed by the softer, smoother stylings of Tony Rice, Alison Krauss and others.
   
   All of the above being said, Kenny and Amanda Smith have a band that stands right at the top of the hottest contemporary Bluegrass Bands. An essential element to good Bluegrass is something called "Drive". Drive is a difficult thing to describe in words, but an easy thing to feel. Drive involves timing and when a whole band has Drive the musical rhythm seems to propel the music forward in a way that almost has a life of it's own - like an 18 wheeler tearing down a mountain incline with no brakes. Bill Monroe didn't really have Drive until he had Earl Scruggs - then he never was without it. The reason I bring it up is that Kenny Smith has as much drive as any musician in Bluegrass. ALL of his bands have drive in spades and all of the recordings with his wonderful guitar work roll right along at times like a runaway freight train - at other times like a stately wagon.... like the Budweiser Wagon pulled by those magnificent Clydesdales. Anyway - Drive is essential to Bluegrass, and Kenny Smith HAS it.... and passes it on to the whole band.
   
   Amanda Smith has a pleasant voice, and only suffers in comparison to say... Alison Krauss. She is probably the biggest reason for the absolutely scintillating harmony vocals of this band. My favorite cuts are the ones where Kenny takes lead vocals: "I've Traveled Down This Lonesome Road Before", "Stay A Little Longer" (Making the GREAT old Bob Wills Standard come to zesty life.), and "Big Ball in Boston" (Tearing the house down at what sounds like about 180 on your metronome setting.) Ron Inscore plays some absolutely delicious mandolin and Steve Huber plays the 5-string like he were auditioning for Ricky Skaggs' Kentucky Thunder.
   
   The worst cuts on this disc are great state-of-the-art Bluegrass (if you can call anything this good ANY shade of "bad"). The best cuts are among the best recordings ever done in the genre.
   
   Get it.



3. Fantastic playing and solid singing make this one of the best new albums I've heard in a year. Highly recommended to both the novice Bluegrass listener and the ones with hundreds of classic LPs (like me!)



4. Come on Amazon!!....List the fine artists (Kenny & Amanda Smith Band) that produced this album. Kenny Smith's rock solid guitar work with the Lonesome River Band from 1995-2001 twice led to his winning the IBMA's "Guitar Player of the Year" award. Smith's solo project, "Studebaker," showcased his songwriting abilities and talented wife's soulful singing. A couple years have now passed since Kenny and Amanda Smith turned plenty of heads with their gem of a bluegrass album, "Slowly but Surely" (Farm Boy FBR-1001), that included band members Ronald Inscore, Jason Moore, Steve Huber, and Ron Stewart. It helped formulate the band's original, contemporary sound characterized by beautiful vocals, expert picking, solid arrangements, excellent repertoire, and high recording quality. It also resulted in the band winning IBMA's 2002 Emerging Artist of the Year award.

   The band has had a couple personnel changes, but mandolinist Ron Inscore and banjo-player Steve Huber are still with the Smiths. You may remember that Inscore played with Tommy Long and Rick Pardue, and his rhythm chop and engaging breaks are a key part of any band's sound that he is involved with. And, Huber, from Pennsylvania, has played with Bob Paisley & the Southern Grass, Paul Adkins, Lonesome Standard Time, 1946, and Chris Jones & the Night Drivers. In 1997, Steve started a banjo tone ring business and he now builds the Huber line of banjos in Nashville. His solo project entitled "Pullin' Time" was released in 1995. A relative newcomer to the band is bassist Greg Martin, from South Carolina, who has played with Southern Drive and New Vintage. With this latest lineup, I must admit that I do miss the fine bow work of fiddler Ron Stewart. "House Down the Block" is another milestone for the band, as it marks their debut on the well-respected Rebel Records label.

   Versatility has always been a prime vision for the band, and they appear equally comfortable with up-tempo driving bluegrass ("Big Ball in Boston" or "I Know Where Love Lives"), moderately-paced lyrical pieces ("It's Not the Wind"), ballads ("All She Ever Wants"), western swing ("Stay a Little Longer"), or country ("House Down the Block"). Three songs were written or co-written by Kenny Smith, and Tim Stafford and Becky Buller each contributed a couple to the project. Given the group's desire to cover many musical moods, I wish that at least one of the thirteen tracks would have really slowed things down to show what they can do with a leisurely tear-jerker. On the other hand, this CD has a lot of hustle, with plenty of fiery picking and snappy vocals. Live in concert, I get the feeling that the Kenny and Amanda Smith Band could really raise a ruckus among an audience with their high-geared music. They're full of get-up-and-go, and that's the way I like my bluegrass. With some hot fiddle in the mix, this project would've been an "11" on the scale of one to ten. (Joe Ross, staff writer, Bluegrass Now)

No comments about Gospel Greats: 1969-79.

5 comments about You'll Never Walk Alone.

1. My son used this CD and song for his wedding this summer. They used this song as they lite the unity candle. BEAUTIFUL!!



2. don't let the price fool you, this cd has 9 songs on it and many that are not on the ultimate gospel cd. i'm glad i bought it. there are songs i have never heard him sing before and he sings them so beautifully. epe really does an awesome job.



3. I love the CD. Elvis has a unique voice, which helps explain his enduring legacy. The songs are old favorites and are performed with his usual perfection. Listening to it brings me great pleasure. I highly recommend it to any who enjoy gospel sung by a smooth voice with great power. The only flaw is that it contains only 9 songs. I wish it had twice that number!



4. good elvis album if you like the music from the end of the 60's elvis made.
   It's not his best work, it's more an album for the real die hard fans.



5. ELVIS was always fond of godspell music so he would give 110 per cent when singing this type or religious music. This album, originally released in 1971, gathers songs from various sources: (There'll Be) Peace in The Valley, I Believe, It Is No Secret (What God Can Do) and Take My Hand, Precious Lord, were on an E.P. from 1957; Sing You Children comes from the "Easy Come, Easy Go" soundtrack (1966); "You'll Never Walk Alone" and "We Call On Him" from the 1967 recording sessions where Elvis was trying to reshape his music style; Who Am I? from the legendary 1969 Memphis sessions; and Let Us Pray, which includes one of the best rockin' bass lines from all Presley's songs, comes from the Change of Habit soundtrack, a godspell film itself. The King feels and gives himself enterely to all the songs as few artist could and can. The sound is great and at last the album comes with its original cover art, one of the best album cover of his discography. A Must!

No comments about Elvis' Christmas Album.

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.

No comments about Country Gospel Greats.

4 comments about Cryin' Holy Unto the Lord.

1. According to Joe Sixpack's online discography, this was the next-to-last album of Monroe's life, and no one can say his devotion to gospel faltered at the finish, because its Appalachian authenticity is exemplary, and "Gloryland," "Not My Home" and "Lost in Sin" are as galvanizing as anything he ever recorded. "Saint Peter's golden mandolin is reserved for Bill Monroe."



2. A fine bluegrass gospel release, with strong ensemble work from Clarence Tate, Tom Ewing and Blake Williams, who formed the core of the Blue Grass Boys at the time, as well as numerous guest stars and contributors, such as Ricky Skaggs, Ralph Stanley, Jim & Jesse and Mac Wiseman. The sound of the record is much softer than Monroe's typical "high lonesome" sound, and Bill himself seems somewhat subsumed by all the flurry of other musicians, but it's still a fine album, regardless. Mighty fine! Recommended.



3. This album is neat because it features quite an excellent cast of musicians singing with Bill Monroe. Ralph Stanley does a beautiful and haunting job singing lead on "Harbor of Love." That cut is definitely the best on this album. Ricky Skaggs and the Osborne Brothers are also featured on this album to name a few. The selection of songs are wonderful, and the harmonies and instrumental really stand out as being impressive. Bill Monroe's voice sounds excellent, and he really picks up the pace on a number of the tunes. The reason I like this Monroe album is because of that beautiful rendition with Ralph Stanley and the fact that the album features different lead singers to compliment Monroe. This is pure traditional bluegrass gospel from not just Bill Monroe but a host of talented bluegrass artists.



4. This Blue Grass gospel CD is a unique experience. Rousing Blue Grass mandolin rifts and harmonies with biblically instructive lyrics. 'I'm a gonna shine' is great for listening while doing chores! 'He'll let you in' is an encouraging message to the downcast. Don't miss this excellent part of our American Evangelical heritage.

3 comments about The Final Stand.

1. We always enjoy the Happy Goodmans/especially Howard and Vestal. Would have enjoyed more of the old time favorites, but not in the least disappointed in the performance.



2. The Final Stand is my favorite CD of The Happy Goodmans. I say that about all of their CDs, but it's true of this one. I guess it is good to end with the best. I attended their concert in Little Rock, AR and was blessed. You will not regret getting this CD. Thank You



3. This is a live concert celebrating the lives and ministry of the 1st Family of Gospel Music. Two of the "Original" Happy Goodmans have passed away, but Howard, Vestal, and their friend Johnny Minick have the closest sound to the original group as possible. Surrounded by friends, the Goodmans take the stage and sing with a passion and power that defies generations. Age has made some notes a little more difficult, but this is history! Vestal Goodman will continue to sing and make appearances, but this is the "Final Stand" for what we know to be the "Happy Goodmans". This is a great treasure and a lot of fun!

2 comments about Sunday Mornin' Singin'.

1. This is one of the all time bluegrass albums filled with tight harmonies and great playing. The melodies are strong and extremely memorable-I have been waiting forever for this to be reissued. Don't even think about it-buy it!!!



2. This is indeed my favorite bluegrass album of all time. The harmonies are tight, the instrumental playing is first-rate, the tunes are great, and you can't beat the message. Carpenter of Wood, as the liner notes say, "has one of those haunting melodies that tends to stay with you." And how. "Shine Hallelujah Shine" is a Bill Monroe song done to perfection. "From cradle to cross to crown" is another great favorite.

   I bought the LP in the mid 80s and am so glad to have it again. The album is the original 1980 recording plus 7 bonus songs--gospel tracks from five other albums. And what a bonus. You can't find a better gospel bluegrass album anywhere!

5 comments about Just Over in Heaven.

1. If you like blue grass style gospel music this is one you don't want to miss. Full of great gospel songs with wonderful harmonies. Add this one to your collection today you won't be dissapointed.



2. I love bluegrass and I love southern gospel... Doyle Lawson always has a great combonation. This CD is no different.



3. As a big fan of this wonderful group I really love this one.Keep up the singing for JESUS.



4. This is the second Gospel CD of Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver that I have bought recently (the other is Winding through LIfe). I was a little bit disappointed in both. Not disappointed with the singing or harmonies or instrumentations, but choice of songs. I really wish he would go back to the more traditional bluegrass gospel sounds. I think Barry Scott (his tenor/lead singer) ROCKS! He has one of the best voices in Bluegrass today. I won't give up on Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver, because I think Doyle is tops!!!! I just was a little disappointed in the choice of songs on this CD and on the Winding through Life CD.



5. This is a wonderful collection of gospel songs that showcase the tight vocal harmony talents of the group. There is a certain "barbershop" theme to this CD unlike some of the prior releases. If you want an example of pure vocal harmony that sometimes gives you goose bumps, Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver is your obvious choice - especially on this CD.