Personnel: Randy Travis; The Crabb Family, Blind Boys Of Alabama.
In a country music scene filled with crossover artists and "hat acts," Randy Travis's roots-conscious music and smooth, beautiful baritone have always been a saving grace. In 2005's GLORY TRAIN, a collection of familiar worship songs, that saving grace is elevated to a celestial order.
In the hands of another artist, an album of old religious songs might seem like a throwaway release, an idea lacking originality or room for freshness. Nothing could be further from the truth here, though. The all-acoustic and often minimal accompaniment frames Travis's performances beautifully, and well-worn chestnuts like "This Train," "Down By the Riverside," and "He's Got the Whole World in His Hands" seem almost tailor-made for the singer's voice. Inventive arrangements and help from the Blind Boys of Alabama and the Crabb Family make this a must-have for both country fans and Christian-music enthusiasts.