Reviewed by Tony May

Alice is a long time pioneer of the revival of interest in rural traditional country music. Her early collaborations in the Hazel And Alice duo, the Harmony Sisters, the Strange Creek Singers and currently the Herald Singers have had a great influence on such as Emmylou Harris. These new recordings communicate Alice's deep love for these wonderful old songs. The music's full of bluegrass, old-time, early American folk sounds, all superbly blended by the artist's rich, emotional, earthy vocal style. Gerrard's originals include the beautiful "Agate Hill", written after her mother died, "Life's Other Side Coming Down" and "Jewelled Heart". "Light At The River" is an atmospheric old Primitive Baptist hymn and Cathy Fink's "Names" is moving and stately. Accompaniment includes Jody Stecher, Kate Brislin, Jim Watson from Robin And Linda Williams band, and fiddle virtuoso Al McCanless, so the vocal harmonies and acoustic musicianship are impeccable. Not sure how much demand exists now for simple, beautiful music, but this is a wagonload.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

Interested in reviewing music? Find out more here.