Justin Trevino – Before You Say Amen
Lots of bluegrass artists have excelled at singing gospel, but the coupling of country singers and gospel has produced a more inconsistent output. A successful example is Justin Trevino, who wraps his velvety vocal chords around songs of faith on his fifth album. Trevino tackles a cross-section of well-known old gospel songs such as How Great Thou Art, The Old Rugged Cross and Where The Roses Never Fade, as well as less familiar material. Aside from Trevinos tenor, which has often been compared to Ray Prices, the albums strong suit is the stellar support of such musicians as Bobby Flores (fiddle, lead guitar), Dicky Overby (steel guitar) and Amber Digby (harmony vocals). As with all good gospel, one doesnt even need to be especially religious to appreciate Before You Say Amen. The fervent vocals and the effective and understated arrangements are convincing enough on their own.