Charlie Daniels
Songs from the Longleaf Pine
A Gospel Bluegrass Collection
Blue Hat Records

Growing up, my father insisted that the only music played in the house was his music – Country. Amazingly, after being force fed “Hee Haw” and trucker songs I didn’t develop a strong dislike for Country music. After a while, I actually started to like some of the “outlaw” country artists like Johnny Cash, Hank Williams JR, Willy Nelson, and Waylon Jennings. Another similar artist was Charlie Daniels, with his fiery fiddle-playing duel with the devil.

Most recently, I find myself more eager to discover the gospel roots of country music, and I was ecstatic to receive Daniels’ latest bluegrass gospel release. Songs from the Longleaf Pine incorporates Daniels’ characteristic fiddle and commanding vocals into a spirited bluegrass gospel album. You will also find a handful of celebrated bluegrass/gospel artists making guest appearances. Guests include Ricky Skaggs, Earl Scruggs, The Whites & Ronnie McCoury, and Mac Wiseman.

Hot tracks include “Walkin’ In Jerusalem,” “Keep on the Sunny Side,” “How Great Thou Art,” and a beautiful instrumental of “I’ll Fly Away.” The CD closes with a recitation of Psalm 23 from Charlie Daniels, and finally with a bluegrass style spiritual “The Old Crossroads.”

Over time, I’ve developed a greater appreciation for the traditional country/bluegrass music, and Songs from the Longleaf Pine is a great addition to my studies of this genre.

- Ken W.