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I'll Be Long Gone

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The Churchmen from southern Virginia heard their calling to a bluegrass gospel music ministry nearly two decades ago. A handful of albums established their group's early commitment to presenting music that emphasizes His glory and power. Signing with the reputable Pinecastle label in the early-2000s, their "On The Journey Home" album release was subsequently nominated for a prestigious Dove Award. On their third Pinecastle release ("I'll Be Long Gone"), The Churchmen still have three of their original members (bassist Keith Clark, banjo-player Freddy Rakes, mandolinist Gerald Harbour). In 2007, The Churchmen welcomed a powerful lead vocalist, guitarist and songwriter from North Carolina by the name of David Guthrie. Another North Carolinian, fiddler Tim Smith is the band's newest member who brings a solid resume of bluegrass performance experience. Guthrie's four songs on this album include the title cut that was co-written with Jason Barie (also credited as the sole author of "In My Darkest Hour"). Other material comes from Jim and Jesse McReynolds (Are You Lost in Sin?), Rick Pardue (Smooth Road), Frank Southern (Take Me in the Lifeboat), and others. Guest artists appearing on some tracks include Dale Perry (banjo) and David Coffey (Dobro). While they admit that the road's been long, The Churchmen continue to play and minister with a diverse repertoire of gripping traditional and contemporary material. (Joe Ross, staff writer, Bluegrass Now)