Thank God features the most stable lineup
Doyle Lawson has had, and it has by now become the one against which all predecessors have to be judged; frankly, it sets a pretty high standard for bluegrass gospel ensembles in general. To the core group of
Lawson on mandolin and vocals, Dale Perry on banjo and vocals, Barry Scott bass and vocals, and Jamie Dailey on guitar and vocals have been added the twin fiddles of J.W. Stockman and Jess Barry, who bring a new and welcome dimension the group's sound. This program focuses on gospel songs that
Lawson grew up hearing on the radio during his childhood in the 1940s and 1950s, and includes such classic fare as
the Louvin Brothers' "That's All He's Asking of Me," Carter Stanley's "Calling From Heaven," and the hoary gem "Wait a Little Longer Please Jesus." There's nothing new or revelatory here, but bluegrass gospel music isn't about innovation -- it's about spiritual conviction and musical skill, and no group on the current scene can compete with
Lawson's in those areas. This lineup has been singing together for long enough that its sound has become utterly seamless and almost effortlessly natural. Recommended. ~ Rick Anderson