| Wondrous Love - Blue Highway | |
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Reviewed by Jolene Downs
Rounder Records seems to be very consistent in signing up great Bluegrass acts. Blue Highway is no exception. The guys know their way around the instruments and their vocal harmonies draw you into the music and keep you there. Sonya Isaacs joins them to sing harmony on a couple of the songs as well. Wondrous Love is the first Gospel album for Blue Highway.
"Traveling Preacher" is a new song that they chose to include on the album. It somewhat reminds you of the style of Ralph Stanley even while molding itself into something all of it's own. Even though it is a new song, it has a very traditional sound. It is one of my favorite songs on the album. It tells the story of a preacher who travels through the mountains spreading the Word to the people there. The tempo is very upbeat.
"Wicked Path of Sin" is the album contribution to the memory of Bluegrass great, Bill Monroe. He recorded this song in 1948. It showcases the harmonies and mandolin skills of the group. They almost do the song Barbershop Quartet style.
Listening to the lyrics of "Seven Sundays in a Row," it reminded me a whole lot of many people I have known. It features the vocal harmonies of Sonya Isaacs, and talks about some unlikely people you may see sitting in the pews on Sunday. God has won seven Sunday's in row before they choose to stay for good.
"This World Is Not My Home" has a very upbeat tempo. It talks about how the hardships of this life are just stepping stones until you reach your true home. At that time you will no longer have to worry about any of the mundane things that are required to survive in this one.
"Old Brush Arbors" is a ballad that really draws you into the lyrics. They say that the old brush arbors on the side of the road are like the rock solid faith that their parents had. They are always there and unchanging.
"The Ground Is Level At The Foot Of The Cross" is a gentle reminder that when judgement day comes, everyone is on even ground. It is easy to judge people by their looks and actions, but none of that really matters in the end. Our Judge gave up his crown of jewels for one of thorns. He gave up his life to save ours.
The final song on the album is an instrumental version of "The Old Rugged Cross." It is very soulful and well done.
This is a Gospel album that is very well done. They have included some very traditional Bluegrass pieces along with new material. It is an album that is easy to sit down and relax to. It helps to ease the stress and tension out of the day if you just let the music draw you in.
Song List:
Album cover used with permission of Rounder
Sound clips courtesy of Barnes & Noble.