Bill & Gloria Gaither and Their Homecoming Friends - Church In The Wildwood: Cherished Hymns

Reviewed by Dave Brassington

This album was recorded in a church at Billy Graham's mountain retreat and as a project was designed to recall the days of Old Time Gospel worship. All the artists were attired in 19th century costumes to enhance the atmosphere. This great album opens and closes with two classic Carter Family songs, beginning with Jeff and Sheri Easter's rendition of "Keep On The Sunny Side" and concludes with Stephen Hill giving one of the most rousing readings of "Will The Circle Be Unbroken" that I have ever heard. Try to stop your feet tapping on this one! There are many classic older type songs such as "On The Jericho Road", "Farther Along" by the delightful Peasall Sisters (remember their appearance in O Brother Where Art Thou?), the title track and a superlative version of "Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus" by Allison Spear and Steve Amerson. Buddy Greene does a spectacular vocal/harmonica reprise of "Jonah And The Whale" and "God On The Mountain" by Lynda Randle is also truly outstanding. To sum up this is just about my favourite Gaither album apart from the two bluegrass albums.