Charlie Louvin - Steps To Heaven [Tompkins Square - 2008]There’s no doubt about it good gospel music no matter what ones faith or belief can raise ones spirits and mood, and that’s exactly what this rather wonderful collection of gospel songs by 81 year old country legend Charlie Louvin does. The ten tracks here are all mainly gospel standards which are giving a simple yet powerful renditions with Derrick Lee empowered & rich piano playing, a three sister gospel choir, some slight touches of guitar and bass and of course Mr Louvin’s powerful, righteous,rich and often buoyant voice which show’s little of his age. The whole album was recorded live; which I think really gives this extra oomph & power- With Louvin’s commanding voice never missinng a note, as it’s often mixed in with the rich backing vocals of the three sisters choir. And Derrick Lee's piano playing been proud, raising, blues lined and rich with never a note or chord out of place. Really one could not wish for a better collection of Gospel songs. Truly a timeless, spirit raising collection of wonderful played, invigorating, upbeat gospel songs that I grantee will raise any mood or situation no matter how bad things seem. Roger Batty
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