Customer Reviews

Cryin Holy Unto the Lord

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
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This Blue Grass gospel CD is a unique experience. Rousing Blue Grass mandolin rifts and harmonies with biblically instructive lyrics. 'I'm a gonna shine' is great for listening while doing chores! 'He'll let you in' is an encouraging message to the downcast. Don't miss this excellent part of our American Evangelical heritage.

According to Joe Sixpack's online discography, this was the next-to-last album of Monroe's life, and no one can say his devotion to gospel faltered at the finish, because its Appalachian authenticity is exemplary, and "Gloryland," "Not My Home" and "Lost in Sin" are as galvanizing as anything he ever recorded. "Saint Peter's golden mandolin is reserved for Bill Monroe."

This album is neat because it features quite an excellent cast of musicians singing with Bill Monroe. Ralph Stanley does a beautiful and haunting job singing lead on "Harbor of Love." That cut is definitely the best on this album. Ricky Skaggs and the Osborne Brothers are also featured on this album to name a few. The selection of songs are wonderful, and the harmonies and instrumental really stand out as being impressive. Bill Monroe's voice sounds excellent, and he really picks up the pace on a number of the tunes. The reason I like this Monroe album is because of that beautiful rendition with Ralph Stanley and the fact that the album features different lead singers to compliment Monroe. This is pure traditional bluegrass gospel from not just Bill Monroe but a host of talented bluegrass artists.

A fine bluegrass gospel release, with strong ensemble work from Clarence Tate, Tom Ewing and Blake Williams, who formed the core of the Blue Grass Boys at the time, as well as numerous guest stars and contributors, such as Ricky Skaggs, Ralph Stanley, Jim & Jesse and Mac Wiseman. The sound of the record is much softer than Monroe's typical "high lonesome" sound, and Bill himself seems somewhat subsumed by all the flurry of other musicians, but it's still a fine album, regardless. Mighty fine! Recommended.