Grading System: A=Awesome B=Beautiful C=Could be better D=Don't quit your day job E=Enough Already F=Forget it,Flush it,or #$%& it.
Jeanne and the Parables got started in April of 1990 when Jeanne and Dale Rhea(bass player)and Sandy Rhea(vocalist)and others were preparing a song for the Easter Service at her church.Tom Eggers(guitar/mandolin),a friend of Dale's,came to play guitar.After going over a few songs they found that everything was going nicely and perceived this as a message from the Lord.They sought direction from the Lord and soon felt led to take their musical ability and Gospel message out to wherever God would lead them,and God has opened many doors.Drummer Sharon Diesenroth joined them in May of 1994,and guitar/banjo player Judy Slocum joined in July of 1995.The group represents four different churches,which shows that God's people no matter what persuasion
they belong to,can and should unite to spread God's word.
Their sound is of the country gospel/bluegrass flavor.They have adopted Colossians 4:17 as their fulfillment scripture:"Take heed to the ministry which you have received in the Lord,that you fulfill it."
This is the second recording for Jeanne and the Parables.The first being self titled,and the second which we'll be listening to "Country Mountain Church".
On to the review:
Members of the band are:
Jeanne Delph-Lead vocalist
Tom Eggers-Lead guitar/mandolin/vocals
Dale Rhea-Bass guitar/vocals/harmonica
Sandy Rhea-Backup vocals
Sharon Diesenroth-Drums
Judy Slocum-Banjo/rhythm guitar/vocals
TRACK 1
Country Mountain Church
This is the title track of the album which was written by Dale.Nice harmonica by Dale in the opening of this number.Then the whole band comes in on a standard bluegrass hoe-down jamboree rhythm.Well written lyrics with some good harmonies,and a full colorful sound.(A++)
TRACK 2
Jesus Hold My Hand
Very tight production with a nice comforting harmony.Some great banjo picking by Judy,and the bass guitar really builds a solid foundation to the song.A classic tune that has never been so full of genuine affection.You can feel the emotions coming through in the playing and the singing.(A++)
TRACK 3
Just Hold On
This one leans toward the country mountain music
genre.A very amiable melody that makes you feel good.The lyrics bring hope and sunshine into your life,knowing that if you "just hold on" the light of Jesus will show you the way.I simply love the melody it was a song you can sing along with,and that's what it's all about.(A+++)
TRACK 4
Because He Lives
Great guitar picking in this number,the acoustic sound is so crisp.The vocal harmonies are nothing short of spectacular.The message in the song is one of the greatness of knowing that the Lord lives in all of us.What a super message in a world that has us all so frightened of letting people into our lives.Just let God lead your life all will fall where it should.(A+++)
TRACK 5
There Is A River
Nice easy flowing harmony vocals.The drums add a lot of color to the song with the soft brushes.The smooth harmonica and the vibrato mandolin give the song breadth.(A++)
TRACK 6
You'll Never Leave Me
This song is penned by Jeanne and has a nice easy country sway.You can feel the strength behind the message.There is an exquisite guitar lead in this tune.This one should get some air play for sure. (A++)
TRACK 7
Highway To Heaven
If this one doesn't get you shouting Amen Praise the Lord,I don't know what will.Dale has a strong bass line going and carries the song on to a higher plateau.Jeanne is a fantastic song writer,as this is another sure hit.(A+++)
TRACK 8
Old Crossroad Now Is Waitin'
This one is a bluegrass classic written by the father of bluegrass music,Bill Monroe.It has never been done any better than this.The vocals are excellent and the musicians are top notch.Sing out the greatest music in praise.(A++)
TRACK 9
One Day At A Time
It seems that every gospel bluegrass album I receive has this song on it.If they keep doing it as well as the versions I have heard,all I can say is keep them coming.Simply superb!!(A+++)
Track 10
We Shall See The King
What a voice that Jeanne possesses,an unbelievable range.This is an up tempo number with a powerful message.There is a full sound that is very well laid down.(A++)
TRACK 11
What A Day That Will Be
This is a song with a very beautiful melody.The only group that has sounded anywhere near to this is the Browns.I always enjoyed how smooth the Browns could make the melody flow,and now I've discovered another.
Simply superb!!(A++++)
TRACK 12
Shield Of Faith
It has to be the finest sound in bluegrass today. These musicians are the top of the bluegrass gospel style.Unfortunately the song runs a bit too short,it could have used a few fills from the guitar/mandolin or banjo.(A)
TRACK 13
Darkest Hour Is Just Before Dawn
Pick that mandolin so sweet that it'll make Mama's eyes tear up.This is a sad song played with such emotion it invokes the listener to pay attention.The key change when the male vocalist takes lead is very tight.An excellent production!(A+++)
TRACK 14
Purple Robe
Nice duet with the mandolin and guitar in the first break,in the next break there is a nice duet with the banjo and mandolin.This song has a strong message that is heightened by the exemplary vocals.(A+++)
TRACK 15
Mountain So High
This final song was penned by Dale and shows him to be an illustrative artist.Once again the harmonious vocals are consistent.There is a powerful message that is fitting for the final tune,to leave you thinking long after the song has ended.(A+++)
My overall impression:
If you're into bluegrass gospel music I can highly recommend this CD.If you're looking for some incredible vocals look no further,you'll be amazed the range that these vocalist can reach.And the harmonies,well,they have to be heard to be believed.
Class A musicians with an excellent choice of material makes this act a must for the fan of great music.Pick up the CD today if you're not inspired by Jeanne and the Parables,then don't look to me for the
answer you need a higher power.This is a fantastic addition to any collection.There is nothing like the feeling of being in that "Country Mountain Church".
So until next time,keep your ears to the tunes,your eyes on the road,and keep in touch with us....Donna
WebSpawner Page Machine
Send E-Mail to: DowneastReviews@webtv.net