Reviewed by Tony Cummings

If the music phenomenon that is Robert Randolph has opened your eyes and ears to the captivating power of a pedal-steel cascading blues licks in all directions, you're ready for the next step into the wonderful world of sacred steel music. This slow-burning, soul-lifting music had lain hidden in the obscure churches of the American East Coast's House Of God Holiness denomination until folklorists shone the light on this dazzling brand of blues gospel music. The Campbell Brothers were the first sacred steel group to tour extensively and on this dazzling album - released August 1st - Chuck, Phil and Darick (along with Phil's son Carlton on drums) show just how they could tear the roof off any church and leave the congregation in spiritual apoplexy. Try the blistering instrumental opener "Framming" with Phil's dazzling jazz-tinged solo, warm to vocalist Denise Brown giving it some old time religion on "Sign Of The Judgment", dance to the funk of "Good All The Time" as brother Darick removes the paint from the walls as he solos on his trusty eight string lap steel or be dazzled by the moody instrumental run through of Sam Cooke's oldie "A Change Is Gonna Come", or catch Chuck awesome solos of smoking tribute to Native Americans "Native Praise". Sacred steel has come a long way. Look for this in your local record shop.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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