5 comments about Passing Through.

1. What a voice, Always knew that he had a unique voice. He's in a class of his own, with nobody even close. This cd is great not a song on it that I don't like. Especially like the track "That was us". Randy sings music that is closer to real country than most of the artist's out there today with little that would be considered "crossover". I plan on purchasing lots more of his work.



2. I give Randy lots of credit, fighting a stupid record label because they think that if he puts out a christian CD that sales will tank, well guess what 4 CD's later, I hope he puts out another one! And good riddance to the stupid record executives that tried to tell him otherwise.
   
   Country music and christianity have deep roots. This CD is a return to music for Randy that isn't gospel, BUT this is a great CD.
   
   The song Angels is probably going to end up being requested a lot on Mother's Day. It is a modern version that can replace Jimmy Deans "Mother IOU", since nowadays country music stations refuse to play classic old country.
   
   There is not a single song on this CD that is bad, but don't buy this CD if you are looking for things along the lines of the CD's "Rise and Shine" "Inspirational Journey" "Glory Train" or "Worship and Faith" because this is classic Randy.



3. I really love the new Passing Through CD. The radio station here has been playing Angels alot There are several others songs on the CD that deserves the upmost attention.
   GREAT CD!!!!!!!!!!
   Kathy



4. I loved this new album! It is so signature Randy Travis with a Twist of Faith mixed in. Perfect balance of the two. Not really totally country or Gospel. Great lyrics, and melodies. This takes me back to the late 80's. I sure miss those times when country music was GREAT!
   
   GO RANDY



5. I absolutely love Randy Traivs. He is, without doubt, the finest voice today and one of the greatest artists of all time. Although I am a new fan, I eagerly awaited the arrival of this CD and was not dissapointed.
   
   It's hard to start when reviewing this album. I will start off by saying that it is another special one, just like Rise and Shine and Worship and Faith. I must say Randy's last three albums on the "Word" label are his finest- both musically, vocally, and artistically. It seems that radio and television, however, are completely ignoring him- no doubt due to his professed faith in Jesus. Randy has truly shown a change in his life and sometimes I feel GAC, CMT, and many country radio stations are purposely NOT playing his videos and songs (when the Raise Him Up video was released, GAC gave it very little air time compared to new ones from other popular artists at the time. Country radio has also refused to play his single "Four Walls", even when I and others requested it.) They are missing a true gem.
   
   Randy's music is set apart first by his vocal capabilities. His voice is now more emotive than ever, touching the heart and sometimes bringing one to tears. He has reached the heights of musical expression, and some of these songs are quite haunting, like "My Daddy Never Was." This number portrays the plight of a drunk father who wants help with his addiction and cries that he only wants to be a good father. His wife leaves and finds another man at church, and all seems hopeless until the end. This song could never leave my mind for days. The emotion Randy puts into it makes the listener feel the pain and desparation of the man in the song.
   
   "Four Walls" is another beautiful number, as well as "I'm Your Man" and "I Can See It In Your Eyes". These last two stand apart from other love songs of the day which, for some reason, find it necessary to include sex as a part of love. Randy never once mentions sex in the songs. Instead, he sings of true and deep love and companionship that will weather the storms of life. There are many infectious songs here as well, one of my favorites being "Train Long Gone." The backup singers here sound like a group of cowboys, showcasing Randy's pure traditional sound and style.
   
   You will find this album to be a treasure and an enjoyment beyond words. I could never explain the entire thing. It must be heard. If there is any new album you buy, don't reach for the souped up, sorry voice of Tim McGraw or the stale releases from Alan Jackson. These songs will give you a lot to think about. This is country music as it should be.
   
   Kitka

5 comments about Amazing Grace: Jessye Norman.

1. A great collection of music, impeccably performed. Norman shows her versatility, ranging from spirituals to Ave Maria to traditional Christmas music, all in that marvelous voice of hers. If you're a fan of Jesse Norman, you know what to expect, and you'll love it. If you're not familiar with her, this is a good place to start.



2. Oh what a joy to listen to one of the richest voices of our time! A truly great singing legend. Breathtaking depth and effortless power!



3. Don't Know. Holder had a CD of Ludwig con Beethoven! Awaiting the real thing.



4. There's not enough words that can express how wonderful Miss Jessye Norman's vocal talent is. What a wonderful opera diva! I thought the George Bizet's Carmen (CD) was magnificient but then when I got this (CD), I was thrown back. The range and style in "Ave Maria" is splendid, so is "Let's Break Bread Together," "Amazing Grace," and many more songs found on this CD. Miss Jessye Norman, Ms. Leontyne Price, Miss kathleen Battle, Miss Joan Sutherland are top opera divas on my list. So you know I have a fine taste of hearing great vocals; you can't go wrong in purchasing this CD. It's a treasure to listen to.



5. Jessye Norman is one of my favorite opera singers. I hope that she may release another CD of Gospel songs very soon. We have waited too much!!! How about to revisit Marian Andersons' Gospel recordings!!!

3 comments about Tragic Songs of Life.

1. Excellent quality product. I have bought the vinyl version back in 1960, and loved it.I was very pleased to find it on Amazon.



2. It's terrific to see that this title is still available some 50 years after its initial release. It just goes to show you that there are still a few record producers and labels who have not totally sacrificed taste and class in the name of greed. My CD collection numbers over 2,500 CD's and spans 15 different genres, including country, jazz, opera, blues, rock and roll, rhythm and blues, folk, classical, western swing, bluegrass, Latin, show tunes, Seasonal and movie soundtracks. But I will happily go out on a limb and proclaim this as one of my 20 favorite albums of all time.
   
   A friend introduced me to the vinyl in 1978. At the time, I knew little about Country music and even less about Bluegrass. Yet the very first time I heard it, I knew I was experiencing something special. Some may find Take The News To Mother or Mary of the Wild Moor (or any of the other 12 songs for that matter) somewhat hokey, but the unadorned, raw sentiment of these heartbreaking songs is what makes this album work so well. Why do you think it's called Tragic Songs of Life?
   
   Charlie and Ira's proficiency in guitar and mandolin will floor you, but their plaintive harmony will haunt you forever. My two favorites, A Tiny Broken Heart and the Carter Family's perennial I'll Be All Smiles Tonight are masterpieces of feeling and harmony.
   
   A Tiny Broken Heart is particularly gut-wrenching. The story of a little boy whose first love moves away, his pleading for his father to stop the sale of the farm next door will touch even the most jaded of hearts. "Oh no, he cried, dear God don't let it be - they can't take my sweetheart away! ...Give them all my toys, that dear Santa gave; and give them the pennies in my little piggy bank, pennies that my darling helped me save". The world was a far simpler place when Charlie and Ira penned those lyrics, but time has not diminished their effectiveness one bit.
   
   Lesser artists always change the gender when singing a gender-specific song written in the voice of the opposite sex. Like many true artists, they don't bother to alter the lyrics to I'll Be All Smiles Tonight, which is written in the first person from a female perspective. Nevertheless, their wailing will touch you in ways that are difficult to describe, even when you think (and their sincere delivery will convince you otherwise) that they are performing this material with their tongues planted firmly in their cheeks. "I'll deck my brow with roses; my true love may be there. And gems that others gave me, will shine within my hair..." the song begins. You forget instantly that the lyrics were written to be sung by a woman; Maybelle and Sara Carter were only slightly more convincing. True genius.
   
   There is not a bad moment on this album or a bad note in their mouths. The Louvin Brothers, who are known in country history as one of the finest - if not THE finest bluegrass duo who ever lived - produced what is arguably their best album with Tragic Songs of Life. I don't expect it will remain in print forever - it's much too good. Go get it while you can.



3. A dark and truly beautiful album, quite possibly the Louvin Brother's finest. Every song is filled with a terrible beauty that is hard to explain if you are not familiar with Ira and Charlie's work."Katie Dear" and "Knoxville Girl" are particularly memorable songs and stay with you forever! One of the greatest and totally essential.

5 comments about A Gift of Song.

1. This is one of Mason's best works! The Christmas Music is unreplacable and the story behind "A Gift of Song" is so touching. When I researched this I found another set of words to the song, very close, but slightly different. It would be interesting to find out which are the oringinal.
   
   I saw Mason Williams with Jennifer Warnes at Oregon State University in the fall of 1969. It was such a moving concert. They both sang together so well. I was surprised they never did more work together. They sang "A Gift of Song" together that night and the song still winds it way through my mind to this day. What a pleasant night.
   
   Thank You Mason and Jennifer
   
   Eternally, The Timekeeper



2. When I first ordered this item, Amazon sent the incorrect CD. I returned that one and received Mason William's A Gift of Song. Our family enjoyed listening to this music throughout the holiday season. I would listen to it today too. We had this CD years ago, but it disappeared. We're happy to have it back.



3. A Gift of Song, an awesome Christmas Holiday CD. Soothing & Ralaxing, the man of Classical Gas fame can do no wrong. Enjoy!, & Merry Christmas!



4. This CD is great. I have owned it for many years and enjoy playing it even when it is not Christmas. For the most part, it is not your standard everyday Christmas music which I am sure everyone has. Very soothing and relaxing. When I first listened to it, I thought that I had wasted my money because it was different from all my other Christmas music. But after playing it several times, I realized what a gem it was.



5. The album is great. I was excited to finally find Mason Williams' "A Gift of Song", the composition, on this album. A beautiful Warner Bros recording originally: Mason Williams, Chorus, Orchestra, everything but the kitchen sink. One of my all time favorites. But I was disappointed to find that here the song is a newly recorded instrumental version: nice but plain by comparison. On the original LP, the piece was the last on a side and, typical inner grooves, tended to distort... dissappointing for such a spectacular recording. I am still hoping for a CD issue of the original recording by this very versatile artist/composer. I'll keep looking!

5 comments about Take It Back.

1. I still like Dorinda's first solo CD better. I also like her live better. This was just an okay offering.



2. I have been a fan of Dorinda since she started with the Clark Sisters. The overall album has a good vibe to it. One of my favorite songs is the colloboration with her cousin J. Moss on "Return." Another mid tempo song that has a nice groove is "It's ok". If you love all of her churchy songs, then I suggest listening to Track 4 titled, "Take it Back." Overall, I would recommend purchasing the cd.



3. This whole Cd is so great. My favorites are "Hold On", "Return w/J Moss" ( always listening for J Moss), and of course "Take It Back". It just makes me feel good and encourages me to keep pressing towards the mark. I would love to see her and the other Clark sisters perform live. What a gifted voice. I cant begin to even think I woould sound anything like her. It is amazing how so many people from the same family sound so wonderful and annointed. Great job and I look forward to a live show in my area soon.



4. What a GREAT CD. This is my favorite CD by Lady Dorinda! Very uplifting, and 'it's okay' is my jam!



5. Dorinda takes her God given talent seriously. And this CD displays exactly that. Need uplifting? Need encouragement? Need Jesus? Well let go of yourself and let the holy spirit minister to you through these songs. One word describes this CD for me. POWERFUL!
   
   Anita

5 comments about Sacred.

1. All I can say is "Who needs Prozac?". Quite honestly there is no more relaxing, spiritual music out there. I turn the lights off, candlelight, scented candles or incense and just let your tension flow away. It is so
   peaceful and meditative. If you are having a hard day...listen to this. If you need to be uplifted...listen to this. If you can't sleep...just put this on very softly in the background. Just Listen To This!



2. I gave this to my relatives for Christmas & they are still raving over it ! Unfortunately, I was only able to purchase the LAST copy on-line for them. NONE for myself. I still check on availability periodically in hopes of getting my own.



3. I first heard the music of Jeff Majors on a TV show of Oprah Winfrey a few months back. Took awhile to track his CD down, as it appeared others had watched the show too, and he was selling out everywhere I tried. His music just takes me to the most peace-filling place, absolutely incredible (worshipful) flow of music. Close your eyes and listen. A near heaven experience to me. When I need to slow down, catch my breath, step back from the craziness of daily life, and be still, this CD takes me to that much needed place. I feel lifted, focused and re-energized from taking the time out to do so! Enjoy!



4. THIS IS AN EXCELLENT CD. THE MUSIC IS REVERENT AND SOULFUL. YOU WILL BE BLESSED WHEN YOU HEAR THE MUSIC AND SONGS.



5. I heard this artist play on the Oprah show and I immediately went online to purchase the CD. The song he performed (another person sings) was the 23rd Psalm. I was moved to tears while watching the show because the song was so anointed. The entire CD is a worship experience that you will enjoy especially if you like the harp. If you don't know if you like the harp, listen and you will find that you will soon fall in love with the instrument. After playing the song one night in my church, I have since bought it for 4 or 5 other people. It's an old CD, but new to my ears. You won't be sorry to add this one to your collection.

1 comments about Purified.

1. I'm in my early 20s and I was looking for gospel music that appealed to my R&B taste, just something you could really get into. I FOUND IT. This album has a great mix of contemporary upbeat songs (I LOVE 'Let Everything') and slower introspective songs like 'All I Need'. Her voice is so smooth and powerful and the lyrics are equally as great. I recommend this to anyone especially young people trying to give up the sexually saturated music of our generation for more meaningful and spiritually uplifting music that you can still rock to!

5 comments about Christmas in the Country.

1. The only way to listen to this group is live. If you can't hear them live, then listen to a live recording. Only then can you appreciate their tight harmonies and amazing vocal ranges. If you don't well up during the singing of "Oh Holy Night" ... well.. I do, every time I hear it. Incredible!



2. I think I share the sentiments of many Gaither Vocal Band and David Phelp's fans when I say that this live version of "O Holy Night" is the best I have ever heard. And I've heard or seen about 30 different versions. It's a great showcase of David's talent and Anthony Burger's, as well. Two people who always 'bring it all to the table' when performing. They are the Michael Jordans of the music world. Whenever you see them perform, whether on TV, CD, or in person, you always get your money's worth and become inspired.



3. I am ecstatic to find this CD (bought the video too!). On Christmas Eve 2000 my TV was on late and just when I was about to turn it off, I inadvertently hit the channel button instead of the power off. Whatever channel was struck, at that moment, a singer began to sing a Christmas carol and for a few minutes I was spellbound hearing the song "O Holy Night" being sung like I had never heard it sung before. I was stunned with the beauty of this rendition and thought about it for one entire year wondering if I would ever again find this vocalist. By pure coincidence, while channel flipping tonight, I happened to see the Bill Gaither Group on TV and recognized the vocalist. I then searched Amazon Music under Gaither and saw the review that described this song incredibly sung by David Phelps. I listened to the sample and knew I had finally found this treasure. I am grateful that technology supports such searches. I feel blessed to have found this beautiful gift which will be shared with my family every Christmas from now on.



4. I love this CD. I have many of the Gaither CDs and videos. I also was fortunate to see them live recently. OH HOLY NIGHT is my favorite Christmas song. I have never heard it sung better than David Phelps does, backed by the Homecoming Friends. Simply incredible. You must have the video! All the Gaither CDs and videos are a mix of beautiful music and so much laughter and fun. I have my favorites, but I would recommend any of them. (...)
   Hallellujah! All the Saints say......AMEN and AMEN!



5. There really is no such thing as a bad Homecoming CD or video. Every one of them contains enough wonderful moments to make them essential purchases for all Southern Gospel fans. So, why did I only give this one four stars, instead of five, you ask. In comparing it to their other Christmas concert video, Joy to the World, I felt this one didn't quite measure up to the magical holiday feeling of the first one. I can't really put my finger on why.

   There are some great songs on this one though. My favorites were Tennessee Christmas, featuring Babbie Mason and Guy Penrod. I do have to laugh at the verse Guy Penrod sings. He does a wonderful job, but the words don't really fit him. He sings about being attracted to the glamour and excitment of Hollywood. If there is anybody who would be less likely to head for LALA land, I can't imagine who it would be. That's not a criticsm. It just amuses me to hear him sing this.

   Bob Cain passed away the day this CD/video was made. Russ Taff sings his theme song, What a Wonderful World. Frankly, I have to say he sings it better than Bob Cain did.

   One song which really did capture the sparkle of Christmas is the medley sung by Greater Vision. If you find yourself repeatedly hitting the replay button on that song, you should buy the Greater Vision Christmas Album, which is one of the all time best Southern Gospel Christmas CDs.

   I advise buying Christmas in the Country. However, if you don't already own the Giather's Joy to the World Cd or video and ony want to buy one Gaither Christmas project, opt for Joy to the World over this one.

4 comments about Joy In the Camp.

1. Bill Gaither often says that if Christians can't get along on earth what are they going to do when they get to Heaven where they HAVE to get along. This is one of the favorite Gaither Homecoming dvd's. It exudes pure joy and is very funny. Actually it has the best humor of all the dvd's in my opinion.
   
   Those of you who know your Bible remember that Shadrach, Meschah & Abednego (I hope I spelled them right) were put in the fiery furnace because they would not bow to the King. But they did not burn and there was a fourth man in the fire (Obviously God). Bill Gaither and crew develop a skit called the "Fourth Man" with Tim Lovelace, Jake Hess, Rex Nelon, George Younce, Willie Wynn. It is hilarious. At first you think Bill is serious - then you know he is joking. I won't tell you the skit - would spoil the dvd for you.
   
   The other songs are:
   
   Joy in the Camp - Ann Downing
   The Happy Jubilee
   Thank God I'm Free - Jack Toney, Ed Enoch, Vestal Goodman
   The Haven of Rest - featuring Glen Payne
   I Was There When It Happened
   Beautiful Isle of Somewhere - Bob Cain
   Getting Used to the Family of God
   I Know - Ivan Parker, Willie Wynn, Jake Hess, Calvin Newton
   Swing Down Chariot
   The World Didn't Give It to Me
   The Fourth Man - Tim Lovelace, Jake Hess, Rex Nelon, George Younce, Willie Wynn
   
   Go Ask - Bill Gaither, Gloria Gaither, Ivan Parker
   (This is one of the few videos that Gloria sings in a trio)
   The Night Before Easter - Donnie Sumner
   Sinner Saved By Grace - Glen Payne George Younce
   and many more.
   
   This dvd is joyous, has a chapter insert, and there truly is Joy in the Camp.



2. Best ive seen yet, I would recomend it to all



3. I have seen several of the videos, but this one is by far the best. It is uplifting and encouraging. The testimonies tell of the love of a savior who is also a redeemer.The video will make you laugh,and it will make you cry, but most importantly, you will experience the majesty of Jesus through this worship experience. This video is wonderful



4. Oldies but goodies!!!!!!!!!!! Spirt Filled Awsome jo

5 comments about Have a Little Faith.

1. Mavis is at the topof her game and in fine form. You can feel the Spirit right through your speakers!



2. She had it Then...She has it Now...One Word, One Name, Synonymous with Soul..."Mavis"



3. I first heard this cd on a blues radio station in Houston, Texas (KPFT) and 'A Dying Man's Last Plea' was what sent shivers down my spine. I like the entire cd but this song is the one I play over and over.



4. Mavis Staples
   Have A Little Faith Alligator
   
   On her first album of new material since 1993, Mavis Staples proves to be, spiritually and musically, convicted. She still has her instantly recognizable and dynamic voice. It distinctively features throughout 12 songs on her Alligator debut. All are uplifting and contain encouraging messages about being the best you can be, equal rights, helping each other, spirituality in God, believing in your dreams, and keeping the faith. Her unheralded backing band, features her sister, Yvonne, on background vocals. The production is very polished.
   
   "Pops Recipe" is rather funky and is an homage to Mavis' father. He had 13 siblings, dropped out of school to pick cotton yet became a gospel and soul legend. Pops taught his children to ("Accept responsibility / don't subscribe to bigotry, hypocrisy, duplicity.") "Ain't No Better Than You" contains equally strong lyrics such as ("Change will come but not overnight / it's the waiting / that's so frustrating.") The slow and deeply moving, "God Is Not Sleeping", is beautiful and brilliant. Several numbers mix gospel with R&B such as "I Still Believe In You" and "There's A Devil On The Loose". The latter describes the evil that is brought to individuals and society. The Chicago Music Community Choir's gospel backing vocals are astounding on "In Times Like These".
   
   The meaningful lyrics to these inspirational songs are a stark reminder of the strife's and struggles that many have to endure. Yet, this is healing music -- designed to help our hurting and deeply suffering world. Like an open door, Staples' powerful voice and contemporary musical arrangements are welcoming so that you don't miss out on a lost opportunity. For 51 minutes, she instills faith in the deepest cynic and provides hope for the broken-hearted.
   
   -- Tim Holek



5. There's a reason Mavis and this CD won four W.C. Handy Awards...it is a terrific disc. The songs are uplifting and inspiring. The production is immaculate. The background musicianship is superb. And, of course, there is that strong, angelic voice. No reason to look further...buy this CD.