Reviewed by Dave Brassington

This amazing CD provides the listener with two classic Stanley Brothers gospel albums. For readers not familiar with Virginia's Carter and Ralph Stanley, they first recorded in the late 1940s and are regarded as two of the greats of the bluegrass genre. This twofer packages 'Hymns And Sacred Songs' (King, 1959) and 'Sacred Songs From The Hills' (Starday, 1960). The opening track "How Can We Thank Him For What He Has Done" is very moving. "White Dove" was a re-recording on one of their classic tracks from the early '50s. Other great tracks from 'Hymns And Sacred Songs' include "The Angel Of Death", "Daniel Prayed" and the truly exceptional "He Said If I Be Lifted Up". The harmony singing on some of these tracks is magnificent and in addition to the very unique harmony of the late Carter Stanley and his brother Ralph we can also enjoy the very fine counter harmony singing of George Shuffler who for many years played guitar for the Stanley Brothers. 'Sacred Songs From The Hills' is another gem. The opener "Gathering Flowers For The Master's Bouquet" is wonderful. A couple of real classics emanated from the album, namely "The Darkest Hour Is Just Before Dawn" and "Rank Strangers" though the whole album is timeless stuff. All I would say is if you want to listen to bluegrass gospel at its finest, this CD repackage retailing at bargain price of around £8 is an absolute essential.

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.

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