Soldier Of The Cross

 (33 customer reviews)

Ricky Skaggs, backed by his talented Kentucky Thunder, has produced yet another masterpiece. I have an extensive bluegrass gospel collection and I would have to say that this recording is definitely near the top of the stack. The entire album was superb (with the exception of one track), but some songs merit individual recognition.As a traditionalist, I was glad to hear Ricky's recording of "Voice From On High", which owed much of its sound to an earlier recording by the Stanley Brothers (no coincidence, since Ricky got his start with Ralph Stanley as part of the Clinch Mountain Boys). The high tenor, sung by Paul Brewster, climbs right up your spine. If you've ever wondered what a bluegrass fan meant when they said high lonesome this is it."The Darkest Hour" is yet another old song. This selection, nonetheless, would merit buying the album. In many ways, the arrangement is reminiscent of "Walls of Time" that appeared on Ricky's...Read more

I have been a fan of Ricky Skaggs since the early 70's, when my husband played in a band with him. He was pure Bluegrass then. He then had tremendous success with his angelic voice in crossover country. But, with Soldier of the Cross, Ricky steps out on faith and gives up these worldly riches to reach the unsaved with pristine Bluegrass Gospel. Ricky Skaggs and the other members in the band are missionaries in their own field.All praises go to Him, that Ricky is able to present the Gospel in the purest of Bluegrass style.A must buy CD for anyone that is saved and has a loved one, who loves bluegrass and is not saved. In fact you better buy more than one copy as when you hear how wonderful Soldier Of the Cross is, you will want to have a spare copy for gifts!

I bought this CD because I knew if it was anything like Bluegrass Rules and Ancient Tones that Ricky and Kentucky Thunder recorded, it would be worth the money. And it was! Best cut on the album was a simple duo by Paul Brewster and Ricky Skaggs called Waitin at the Gate that Brewster had written himself. This is a work of art and bluegrass at its best. Hope to hear a solo album from him one day. I had perceived it being a bluegrass gospel album, but the only down side to this album was the two contemporary songs Ricky put on it. Should have been straight bluegrass or straight contemporary. Two completely different audiences. But luckily I have my one button control to skip those. Still the other 10 songs are worth the buy.