"AN INDEPENDENT VIEW"
by:Linda Fryer, BMI, CLA
© July 2004
"AMAZING GRACE… A COUNTRY SALUTE TO GOSPEL"
volume 1
volume 2
……..and introducing, volume 3!!
ALBUMS: AMAZING GRACE
ARTIST: VARIOUS
PRODUCER: VARIOUS
LABEL: SPARROW /EMD
EMI, CMG LABEL GROUP
When we first decided to review these wonderful cd's as a series, we weren't sure just how I'd write this. I certainly didn't want to highlight any particular artist, and risk not mentioning another. And I knew I couldn't possibly list all the musicians, all the vocalists, and all the producers involved. That would

lead to a very lengthy review, and also it might put some of you to sleep. We wouldn't want that, now would we? Not that you aren't interested in these folks, but the list is so long, that even I might get overwhelmed with them all! And you know me; I'm never at a loss for words!

I received the three cd's today, and have begun listening to each of them, certain I'd have nothing to write for weeks! But, to my surprise, here I am, day one, already diggin' in. Here goes, girls and boys. Lets see if I can possibly give this collection of Christian music, the justice it deserves.

This project , which has been called, collectively, "a country salute to gospel", began several years ago. Many great musicians and artists gathered together at various times and places, and recorded some of the most beautiful songs ever written. I'm not sure how each artist decided which song he'd sing, or if someone chose them for him/her. But I'm telling you, they couldn't have chosen better. Each one sings the song as if it were written, personally, for them. . So, let's begin with the first cd, "Amazing Grace". It was originally released in 1995, and was very well received. Thus began the discussions about the 'whens, wheres, who's', for the next one. A couple of years later, 1997, Volume 2 arrived in stores, and was again, received very well. Now, I can happily report that we have the newest in the series, Volume 3….and it's more beautiful than it's predecessors….if that's even possible!
I can't say I'm surprised that so many "super stars" agreed to get involved in the project. When we think of country artists, we seem, naturally, to think of them as good solid Christians. Or at least, as spiritually motivated. Whether they were involved in a choir or band, our favorite artists often come from a background that began in their church. And many of them brought that music with them when they came to Nashville. Many of them, in fact, continue to record Christian and gospel music as a big part of their careers. So it's not to hard to

imagine their willingness to be involved in the production of Amazing Grace. And what a great thing it has turned out to be!

I just feel I have to mention some of my personal favorites, even though I know I'll forget someone. I can't help myself; there are just SOME people that stand out for me! One of them is Ricky Van Shelton. He sings "Precious Lord, Take My Hand" (Volume 2). It's not that it's such a beautiful song, which it is, of course….but, gosh, I've missed hearing his voice on the country airwaves for awhile, and it's SO good to hear him letting that gorgeous voice of his, soar again. I can't get enough of this guy, never could! Why oh why, has radio let us all down?? Oh well, you all know how I feel about radio, these days….and if you don't, you can read some of my stuff in "commentaries". Meanwhile, I'm thrilled to say that Ricky is strong as ever, and singing his heart out.

Another favorite here was Trace Adkins. He's not only on Volume 2, but also Volume 3. But, I must say, his version of "Wayfaring Stranger" was one of the best I've heard. (oops, one thing was missing on this album…the names of the writers…but that's forgivable, I guess, considering the greatness of the entire project, start to finish)…..Trace has this way about him that never fails to make us smile…or shed a tear. He's able to be so funny and sexy, one moment…and so solemn and reverent, the next. How does he DO that? When you hear him sing a gospel tune, you totally forget his hit, "This Ain't No Thinkin' Thing"……oh my goodness!. But gosh, when Trace sings a gospel song, you know you're hearing the real guy, here. Or, one side of him, at least. And it's a GOOD side. Trace has the background he needs to do this kind of song, and you can hear that in every word, every note. I hope Trace will consider doing an entire gospel album some day.

And who can forget our old pal, John Anderson. He's just one of the best, when it comes to "sittin' on the front porch, sittin' in the front pew", kinda guys, to come along in….well…forever! And this time it's no different. I'd have loved it if he'd done all three projects! But he's only on the first one….so if you're a John Anderson fan…and who isn't…grab it now, before it's too late!

Speaking of old pals, John Berry makes his presence known, too. And a great presence it is. Appearing on albums 1 and 3, John sings his heart out, as always. What a beautiful voice he has, and again,,,,,what a shame we

don't hear MORE of it! What is radio thinking???? …ok, ok. I won't start…..

Now, for those of you new to country music, AG Volume 3. released this year, which brings out some of our newer artists, ….like Keith Urban and Dierks Bentley…and "Nashville Star", Buddy Jewell, might be the one for you to start with. And after you've heard it, I have a feeling you'll want to pick up the other 2…. Volume 1 has some of the legends….in addition to Anderson and Berry, we have Charlie Daniels (also on Volume 2), Paul Overstreet, The Cox Family and Billy Dean, among others. I could go on and on. Every single one of these artists and bands is terrific. I haven't heard from Lari White recently…but here she is, singing "Amazing Grace" on Volume 1, and "There is Power in Blood", on Volume 2. She's so talented, I know you guys miss her, too. CALL YOUR LOCAL STATIONS!!!

All in all, the 3 CD's in the series, really come together and meet the expectations of the fans……and THEN some. I haven't mentioned the production value of each of them, but needless to say, it's beyond great. I'm sure the involvement of Scott Hendricks, had something to do with that. Oh, yeah, he can produce a record. Can he EVER produce a record! That's a statement, NOT a question…J Scott never fails to do it, over and over again.

Folks, if it's inspiration you need now, in this most difficult of times in our history…..this series is something that'll lift you up, and give you some hope. The songs are soul-searching, uplifting, heart wrenching, and just plain gorgeous. You'll hear the standards, like "I'll Fly Away" and "How Great Thou Art", as well as some of the lesser known beauties, like "'Tis So Sweet to Trust In Jesus" and "Beulah Land" and "In the Garden". And we can't forget "Old Rugged Cross"….my Grandma's favorite, if you'll permit a personal childhood memory, here.

Do, please, take some time now, check out your stores or websites to find all three of these CD's, in one of the most beautiful series of Christian music I may have ever listened to, in my life. You can find them, I'm sure, at most record stores, but if you want to hear some clips, go to http://www.amazon.com and spend some time with them. Christian music will never go out of style, and our great country artists seem never to leave it far behind, either. "Amazing Grace…volumens 1, 2, and 3….will be something you'll enjoy forever. And what a nice way to bring some peace and hope into your life, when the world seems to be spinning out of control. I highly recommend all three of these amazing albums….But buy one now….and in any order you choose…..I have a good feeling about this project. I think if you hear one, you'll want all three. But then, hey…..that's only………