Universal United House of Prayer - Inspirational Christian Decor for Home, Church & Office - Perfect for Worship, Meditation & Spiritual Reflection

I used to think of Buddy Miller as a twangy country singer--he's so much more. On many of the cuts here, the music is more blues or black gospel-based than country. Whatever you call it, it's some of the best American music you'll ever hear. And you won't hear a more soulful singer in any genre.I heard Buddy's 9-minute version of Dylan's "With God on Our Side" the other night on the radio and sat transfixed. It's as good a cover of a Dylan song as I've heard. This is an album made by a man of faith who is angry at those who use their religion to justify war. This theme is established on track one, a cover of Mark Heard's "Worry Too Much" which was written in response to the Gulf War--it's even more apt now: "It's the demolition derby / It's the sport of the hunt / Crowd driving for war-dance / It's the slow smile that the bully gives the runt." But if this album denounces the wars of men, it also insists that human evil isn't the whole story (i.e., on the Louvin Brothers' "There's a Higher Power").Those who are fans of Buddy's guitar playing won't be disappointed. There are more meaty solos here than on any of Buddy's previous CDs. The performances are all assured. The background vocals of Regina and Ann McCrary lend a sanctified edge to Buddy's gut-bucket swamp blues. Emmylou Harris makes her usual appearance here (on "Wide River to Cross"), as does Buddy's wife Julie (who co-wrote 4 of the songs).Buddy is an under-appreciated treasure. And this is his best yet, music of heart, intelligence, and faith.