STYLE: Southern Gospel RATING OUR PRODUCT CODE: 128637-19701 LABEL: Gaither Music Group SHD6108 FORMAT: CD Album RELEASE DATE: 2012-09-11 RRP: £7.99
Reviewed by Dave Brassington
To my knowledge Bill Gaither's vocal ensemble have never recorded a country album as such, but whether by accident or design they sure have come close here! Perhaps the clue comes in the album's title, as in keeping with this there is no orchestrated accompaniment and with Ben Isaacs as one of the co-producers, it seemed a country type feel was inevitable as we get mandolin and fiddle backing on a couple of tracks. What is also a joy for me is to hear 15 new, original and very good songs, making it very hard to pick a favourite. The current Gaither Vocal Band lineup is Bill Gaither, Michael English, David Phelps, Mark Lowry and Wes Hampton and each is a top quality vocalist. The album opens with the very catchy "Rasslin' Jacob" ,before we are treated to a whole slew of great and new songs such as "Come To Jesus", "Do You Wanna Be Well", "The Old Rugged Cross Made The Difference" and the very moving and graceful "Sow Mercy". If I was asked to pick one favourite it has to be "Glorious Freedom", with a very powerful lead vocal by lyric tenor David Phelps with a very simple acoustic background. A truly outstanding release from one of gospel music's all time great groups.
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Product Description
The 30-year legacy of the Gaither Vocal Band continues with this musical treasure.
Pure And Simple brings this Grammy-winning group back to its musical roots with fresh originality.
The Gaither Vocal Band’s tried and true sound features stunning harmonies, stellar songs and soul-stirring delivery by an all-star line-up of voices including Bill Gaither, Michael English, Mark Lowry, Wes Hampton and David Phelps.