Dixie Echoes - Sounds of Sunday, CD Review

Nov

2006

Dixie Echoes - Sounds of Sunday

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[6] Comments

Producer: Randy Shelnut
Label: Independent Release
Website: http://www.dixieechoes.com

The Dixie Echoes have a long and illustrious history in Southern Gospel Music. Though many people have passed through the ranks of this quartet, I don’t think they have had a more solid sound than with the collective they have today. Consisting of Randy Shelnut on lead, his son “Scoot” Shelnut on baritone, Tracy Couch singing bass, newest member, Dallas Rogers doing tenor and Stewart Varnado on piano, these guys definitely have it together vocally. This was my first introduction to the voice of Dallas Rogers, and I am deeply impressed. He’s a cross between Archie Watkins and Don Thomas (former tenor for the Florida Boys in the early 80s) and he has a big voice and he is all over this recording.

The classic, “IF JESUS IS THERE” starts things off and really showcase some great precision singing by the guys. In fact, there are a couple of other tunes on here that really do an excellent job of doing that; and those songs “UP TO THE HOUSE OF PRAYER” and “OLE BROTHER NOAH” are true highlights of the recording.

One of my favorite songs by the Dixie Echoes is the golden oldie, “PRAISE THE NAME OF GOD” and it was great hearing this song revived, as was another wonderful classic, “I WON’T HAVE TO WORRY ANYMORE”.

I was glad to see a couple of my all time favorite quartet numbers included and the guys do a good job with “WELCOME HOME MY CHILD” and “NEW BORN FEELING” before slowing things down for “THE LAST MILE OF THE WAY” and the Albert E. Brumley classic, “IF WE NEVER MEET AGAIN”. Ending much like it began, “AFTER THE SUNRISE” closes out the recording with a resounding finish.

For the most part, the arrangements on these songs are pretty simple, but showcase some first class singing. With 10 songs, the total time for this recording clocks in at exactly 24 minutes, so it’s a pretty short recording, and it’s over before you know it. The tracks are pretty basic, but well done. I am waiting for the Dixie Echoes to really come out with a big recording. It’s been a few years since they’ve had a big song, and while it won’t be found on this recording, this is definitely one to add to your collection and one that fans like myself will listen to and enjoy over and over again.

Personal Favs: IF JESUS IS THERE; UP TO THE HOUSE OF PRAYER; PRAISE THE NAME OF GOD; WELCOME HOME MY CHILD; THE LAST MILE OF THE WAY

Reader Comments

Nov 17, 06 This has got to be the best if not The Best recording Randy Shelnut has ever released As A Gospel DJ with over 46 years in the business I think I know what Im talking about,Rush out and purchase a copy and see for yourself, I can hardly wait for the first single to release to radio, May God always Bless The Dixie Echoes from Pensacola, Florida The Ole Gospel Man NEAL CANON WJBD Radio DJ Box 70 Salem, Ill 62881

Commented by baptistboy On 11/16/2006

I had not heard the Dixie Echoes for at
least a year and a half until I saw them
at NQC this year.

I was really impressed with what I heard.

Commented by (JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) On 11/16/2006

This Sunday when you come home from church light the fire in the fireplace. Grab yourselves several pieces of fried chicken and a coke. Put on the Sounds of sunday and enjoy some of the greatest southern gospel music you'll hear anywhere. Great job Dixie Echoes. Your all a group of super guys. Thanks for the blessings.

Commented by (JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) On 11/16/2006

I haven't heard them since Billy Todd retired.How is tracy on the low notes?I see they signed a new recording contract with RESTING PLACE RECORDS, Maybe a bigger fuller and longer CD next time?I'll pickup a copy of this recording soon.

Commented by Skullitor On 11/17/2006

I have been saying this for the past few months on this board, but the DE are one of the best and most consistent quartets on the road today. I love Dallas's full-voice tenor and Tracy is without a doubt more than capable of filling the bass position. As for the low notes, I talked to Tracy and we agreed that singing low is not the most important thing. Don't get me wrong, he has a great tone and hits some nice lows, but more importantly, he is a good "singer" period.

I may agree that there is no "hit" on this recording, but it is exactly what the title indicates - those old songs you like to hear on Sunday. The DE, as well as some other quartets on the road today, are great at reviving those old songs. If you have not seen the DE's live since the new group, you need to make a point to do so. The two-mircophone vintage style they use on stage makes the show, as does the presence and program they have put together.

Commented by (JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) On 11/17/2006

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