The first Southern Classics recording was pre-Guy Penrod.

Maybe they co-wrote it for someone else.

Unlike some of the other GVB albums, I think this one truly gave opportunities for each member to sing lead on songs that really showcased their voice and that was very nice. Seriously, could there be a better song for Wes Hampton than “There’s Always a Place at the Table” or for Guy Penrod than “Jesus and John Wayne?” They each had some dynamic songs to shine on with this project, even Bill. It was great to hear.

Even though there were some re-makes on this project, they were good about adding some small stylistic changes to set it apart from recordings past. For example, the sound and vocal effects that they added to “Build An Ark” jazzed up a song that has been done several other times. I was pleased that they left “Search Me, Lord” alone. That song is great in and of itself. As long it is done vocally well, it shines. I love it.

Although I love the GVB’s version of it, I was a bit surprised to see “I’m Forgiven” on this project. The Booth Brothers did this same song on their 2007 project, “Carry On.” Bill usually doesn’t record a song so quickly that one of the other Homecoming artists just recorded without changing the arrangement pretty significantly. The GVB version is sped up slightly and they have a different ending from the Booth Brothers version.

I think we have failed to remember the sixth new song on the CD, however. “When I Cry,” which was co-written by Marshall Hall and Benjy Gaither. I’ve not seen where anyone has mentioned it. I think it’s an incredible piece that truly deserves some attention. In all honesty, I’ve come to love most anything that Marshall Hall has written or co-written. (If you haven’t already, check out one of his solo CDs, “Boundless.” It’s more on the lines of contemporary than southern gospel, but great nonetheless.) Much of his music has lyrics that are so real and raw. They are written in such a way that really evokes the true emotion behind the thoughts. In addition, the music is always seeming to be the perfect subtle compliment to the great words. I love it. He and Benjy did an amazing job on this one and Marsh sung it so beautifully. I think it’s a concept that we so often fail to remember. God loves us enough to hurt when we hurt, cry when we cry, rejoice when we’re happy…That will never fail to stop amazing me and leaving me feeling very humble.

I love this CD.