Reviewed by Tony May

The country music world was taken by storm a while back, when the queens of country, mesdames Parton, Ronstadt and sweet Emmylon combined for an acoustic set of traditional-styled classics on the "Trio" album. Cynics might have predicted the Christian equivalent which followed and also might have guessed it would pale by comparison. 'Apples Of Gold' seems more mature, maybe not so rushed to catch the waves this time. Heirloom consists of Barbara Fairchild, Candy Hemphill Christmas and Tanya Coodman-Sykes. Barbara's a former country semi-star, the others grew up in top Southern Gospel family groups, so there's a mountain of experience behind the project. On offer is a solid set of good country sounds, skilfully blending traditional roots with contemporary stylings. Strong harmony vocals predominate on this better collection of songs than the songsters first outing. Still awkwardly sentimental in part, but not revoltingly so. Scripturally based lyrics, and a worshipful atmosphere throughout. Commended as a lightweight, slippers-by-the-fire, friendly kind of an album.

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