If you were ever to own just one country gospel album,
Songs of Devotion wouldn't be a bad choice. Unquestionably one of the greatest gospel albums ever, it stands as a pure hallelujah to Protestant religiosity in song and to
Foley's strength as an interpreter. One of the keys to the album's success is it's carefully considered arrangements. With only a guitar and bass as accompaniment,
Foley slows these gospel numbers to an almost complete halt. His deep, affecting voice resonates eerily in the long silences between lines. The backing group,
the Jordanaires, are considered one of the finest vocal groups ever and are used here as a sparing counterpoint. The version of "I'll Fly Away" that opens the album does not transcend -- it virtually breaks back in upon itself with sorrow. Another beautifully done number, "Life's Railway to Heaven" closes out the record. With a gesture of ironic homage,
Smog's
Dongs of Sevotion (1999) acknowledged the album's continuing significance and its still potent yearning for a better world.