PHIL KEAGGY: THE COVER OF LOVE

 Greetings and Salutations O Ye Keaggsters... have ya heard the new Phil Keaggy album yet?  I picked one up at a Glass Harp concert last week in Nashville Tennessee...at a store called Two Old Hippies.  It was a little bit of a surprise...as I was not expecting anything new from Phil...but SHAZAM.. there it was on the product table.

First off...the cover is great.  It is a shot taken many  moons ago of Olivia Keaggy who also sings on the album.  It was taken by Ben Pearson.  Phil describes it as "my favorite picture of all time." 

This is an album of "love songs" that spans the genre from Beatlesque to Beach Boys to Paul McCartney to Elvis and anything in between.  It is a fab collection of influences.  That's right...a collection of "silly love song...and what's wrong with that...I'd like to know...so here I go..again." (Paul McCartney)

 BETWEEN WYOMINGS:  This is a song written by Ken Mansfield who was the U.S. liaison for Apple Records and was the go to guy for the Beatles.  NOTE:  Ken has written some great books.  First, The Beatles, The Bible, and Bodega Bay (a chronicle of his journey with the Beatles and his spiritual journey to Christ) and The White Book (a great history of Ken and his relationship to the Beatles but also his music history in general), and Between Wyomings: My God And An Ipod On The Open Road. 

Ken wrote the lyrics and music to the song and Phil brought life to  the music.  Ken had sang the song to Phil while they were vacationing on the Gulf Coast a couple of years ago and Phil went back to Nashville, and "arranged, recorded, and brought the song to life." (Ken Mansfield)  The song now fleshed out  has a Harrisonesque sound to it with the guitar's sounding like George on My Sweet Lord. I picture Ken singing to the love of his life, Connie.  Also a treat are to hear Olivia and Alicia (Phil and Bernadette's daughters) adding some background vocals.

GOOD VIBRATIONS:  Next up is a delightful recreation of The Beach Boy's Good Vibrations.  It originally appeared on the 2002 artist tribute project MAKING GOD SMILE.  Sonically, it has that certain groove that evokes sunshine, cars, girls, and good vibration...that I pick up as the girl or my dreams gives me excitations.  Phil had a some help form Gene Miller on vocals and Ken Lewis on drums and percussion... while he played all other instruments...but it sounds like Brian Wilson and the Boys in full force.

SHE SEES ME:  This could be my favorite songs on the project...and in my top Phil Keaggy picks of all time (that says a lot).  I think the way that he sings the phrase..."she is my best friend...and she sees me for who I am" that leaves me undone...and reminds me of my 40 + years with the love of my life, Brenda.

WHERE ARE YOU LOVE:  This is a simple song...with vocals and guitar...with some sweet "father and daughter harmony" sung by Phil and the little lady on the cover of the project...Olivia.

MY AUBURN LADY:  A play on the words...auburn (the color of hair)...and Aw..bern (Bernadette, Phil's lovely lady).  I heard Phil once sing a song by Phil Maderia..."it's not the hair on the head...it's the woman that makes the man." (or something like that).  Every man of God needs a Woman of God...and Bernadette is strength when he falls or becomes to proud, or just needs encouragement to keep on keeping on.  I originally heard this in a concert in Nashville...and then on the project
RE-EMERGING.  (with  the Phil Keaggy Band from the old Love Inn Days)

There are three songs on this project that evoke the sounds and songs of Paul McCartney (imagine that)...but as always... more than an imitation of Sir Paul...but a tribute to the influence.  Two of the songs were written by Paul.  One was off the FLAMING PIE project and the other from FLOWERS IN THE DIRT. 

SOMEDAYS:  Again, a very reflective...almost sad song, about a lover thinking about his relationship with his lady and how somedays...he can't believe she is real.  It is a song looking back on the journey and looking toward the future.  I can't help but thinking of the "lovely Linda."  The call and response guitar licks...the mandolin, the string sounds all showcase the lyrics.

MOTOR OF LOVE:  This is off the FLOWERS IN THE DIRT project by Mr. McCartney (to me with more spiritual searching songs)...and recorded by Phil on the IINSEPARABLE project...that is an overlooked gem...again...in my humble opinion.  The song is a smooth declaration of the love that the man cannot get over...and it is motivated by this "motor of love".  At first an odd phrase to me...but the more I listen I sense a care without a motor will not run and go anywhere...but a love with a motor of love...keeps the relationship going.  I love the line..."heavenly Father look down from above..I can't get over your powerful motor of love.  And of course I relate it to the heavenly Father Himself who is the ultimate "motor of love" in my life.

GROW WITH ME:  This one is not a song by Paul McCartney...but written by Phil and Michael Lewis... but it evokes the kind of songs that Paul had on his MEMORY ALMOST FULL.  The song is a blend of the gritty, raucous rock and roll...and slides into a smooth, mellow, shimmering pop.  It is almost an anthem of love for his love...and the desire to "keep the flame alive and never let me go."  I could easily almost hear this on the CRIMSON AND BLUE cd.


I WANT YOU, I NEED YOU, I LOVE YOU:  A Tip O' Da Hat to Elvis Presley is seen in this song from the 1950's.  I just watched Elvis perform this on a collection of his "Greatest Performances" video and WOW...what emotion.  Phil takes some of the early Elvis raw emotion...and melds it with some 60's pop sounds of the Beatles...and makes this a wonderful salute to two influences in one song.  I like the way that the hand claps and the quicker tempo are used...right after the on spot introduction of the Scotty Moore style guitar sliced into my ears. 

VOICES IN THE SKY:  A song by Justin Hayward from 1968...speaks of a love calling. It evokes to me images of what was known as "the summer of love" and the days of the "Jesus Movement" which were charged with change...and hopes and dreams of a new world...which a lot of us found in Jesus.  Voices in the sky....brought on the wings of a bluebird...as she flies in the sky...where God speaks from...is what we want to hear.

WHAT MATTERS MOST:  A song of search and a song about in the search for "what matters most" and that is love that matters the most.  I first heard this song on the Glass Harp project HOURGLASS.  This world is constantly changing...the sun comes up...the sun goes down...but in a relationship...what matters most is that love never dies.  Learn to forgive...learn to go to the well that never runs dry...walk in the land of the living...and realize that God's love never dies...and if your relationship in your marriage is based on that never dying love...your love will continue to flourish.

WHERE THE MORNING DAWNS:  Influenced by the writings of the Scottish writer of fiction George McDonald and of course the Fab Four...this songs speaks of how the morning down...that comes out of the darkness reveals the amazing grace of God.  "Oh God you are my God...early will I seek your face..." (Ted Sandquist)  "When the morning dawns...and the evening fades." (Phil Keaggy and Mike Radosvsky)  I love the imagery of how our love for Him...is revealed "in the holy hush in the early dawn" and to "know that love has a face...the giver of Amazing Grace."

Well...that is this humble reviewers impression of what I consider to be one of Phil's best projects...but as Wayne Berry my creative arts Pastor told me just this last Sunday in a conversation about this project..."Rodney...you are biased."  He then added..."that's not a bad thing."  Well...it is true...from my earliest days of my walk with the Lord...until now...Mr. Keaggy has influenced, encouraged, pointed me to Jesus and lived the humble servant attitude.

I give the COVER OF LOVE on a scale of one to ten...eleven.

Rodney Boyd

 

NOT A THROUGH STREET BY John Henry Ramistella

Hello friends and neighbors. Yes... Mr. John Henry Ramistella..aka Mr. Johnny Rivers...is the subject of our Ruminatin' Rod's Record Review.

My lovely wife Brenda gave me a turntable for Christmas...that plugs into my computer...where I can play my albums...and not only play them... but turn them into MP3s...put them on my ITUNES...and can either make a CD of them...or load them onto my
IPHONE.

I have been mining my closet of my vinyl...and it has been wonderful.

One of the albums that I recorded was one that I have not heard since 1982 by Johnny Rivers called NOT A THROUGH STREET.


I have been a Johnny Rivers fan for a long time. Back in 1967...I went to a Johnny Rivers concert at MTSU in the old gym...before the massive athletic center was erected. I was 16 years old at the time...and I had a ball. The opening act was THE GRASSROOTS...and they rocked the house.

Johnny came out on stage...and it was wonderful. I remember three things from that concert: (1) He had technical difficulties as he tried to play Seventh Son. First he played a rocking opener on his guitar...and when he started to sing the microphone went out. Then he tried again...and when he started to sing...his guitar went out. (2) There were a group of drunk frat boys who heckled Johnny throughout the concert...calling out for Poor Side of Town. At the end of the show...Johnny saluted our fine MTSU frat boys with the bird. (3) I went to the back of the gym...and met Johnny Rivers and got his autograph. He was very nice and gracious.

He was at his prime at that time...Poor Side of Town, Secret Agent Man, Baby I Need Your Loving were all hits. His album Johnny Rivers at the Whiskey A Go Go was rockin'...in 1963...with the Beatles breathing down his neck with the breaching of the British Invasion. This live album...was a party album as Johnny rocked on with Chuck Berry songs (Memphis, Maybelline) and songs like Twist and Shout (Isley Brothers ), Walkin' The Dog, LaBamba with the crowd noise in the background. Sunset Boulevard was a-rockin'.

Multiple albums were recorded... SECRET AGENT MAN...was the theme (originally from Danger Man in England...later Secret Agent Man in America)...Poor Side of Town, Baby I Need Your Lovin', The Tracks Of My Tears, Swaying To The Music, Midnight Special, Rockin' Pneumonia, etc.

Johnny got his own label (Soul City Music) and helped organize and served on the board of directors of THE MONTEREY POP FESTIVAL. Pretty good stuff for a boy from Baton Rouge, Louisiana. (aka home of James Burton). Meetings with Burton, Ricky Nelson (who recorded Johnny's song I'll Make Believe), and Allen Freed (disk jockey who coined the term rock and roll, and was involved in the payola scandals) all played a part in the rising of the River. Allen Freed suggested the name change for Mr. Ramistella. Johnny chose Rivers...because of the Mississippi River. (Thanx and a Tip O Da Hat to the book THE BILLBOARD BOOK OF NUMBER ONE HITS for historical information)

In 1982...Johnny Rivers released a gospel album called NOT A THROUGH STREET on Priority Records. Great album cover...and great music on the inside. The album had a great group of players including: Jim Keltner, Darrel Cook, Hadley Hockensmith, Larry Knechtel, Jim Horn, The Waters Family, Alex Acuna, Harlan Roger, Ron Tutt, Dean Parks, Jerry Scheff, Bill Maxwell, Jim and Ginger Hendricks, Larry Prentiss...and of course Johnny Rivers on guitar and vocals.

On the inner sleeve along with the words on one side...there was drawing by his wife Christi Rivers of a large side view of a Lion...a woman at the well, and lambs with the verse "Behold the Lion that is from the tribe of Judah, The root of David, has overcome..." (Revelation 5:5)

The style of music...sonically...is pure Rivers...Motown, funk. As a matter of fact...there are many Motown songs...revamped to be sung to the Lord. If you close your eyes...you can almost here THE FUNK BROTHERS (Motown's house band).

Here is a thumbnail of the songs:

NOWHERE ELSE TO GO: Written by Johnny Rivers...and speaks of the ups and downs and turning to God. "Now my plans and dreams have all faded...everyone I trusted let me down...the one that I loved married my best friend...and they moved to the rich side of town...I feel lost and abused...so confused...and I've never ever ever been so low. Lord I'm coming to You with my heart in my hand...don't turn me away...You gotta hear what I say...Cause, I've got nowhere else to go." This song...sets the tone for the rest of the album.

A CHANGE IS GONNA COME: This is a heart tugging version of the Sam Cook classic. "It has been a long...long time comin'...but I know a change is gonna come...Oh yes it will."

NOTE: Many rock/pop stars...have roots in gospel...but get trapped in fame and the flesh... and fall away...but their cry to the Lord...is still heard.

TURNING POINT: "I've reached the turning point Oh Lord in my life oh yeah...I reached the turning, turning point in my life...Oh yeah." Don't we all have to reach that point?

REACH OUT, I'LL BE THERE: The Holland/Dozier classic...with the subtle change of "Reach out and HE'LL be there with a love that will shelter you...HE'LL be there with a love that'll see you through."

STAND BY ME: Rock and Roll poets...Mike Stoller, Jerry Leiber (wrote a lot of Elvis, Coaster, etc songs)...and Ben E.King wrote this one. Stand By Me..."And Lord, Lord, stand by me, oh stand by me." A perfect song for when the night has come...the sky tumbles...mountains crumble...the cry to Stand By Me...Lord.

BELIEVE IN ME: Speaking of a belief system that will get you through...."That all you got to do is believe in Me...together we'll always be--our love will last eternally...If you just believe in Me. Nothing will ever come between us--with our spirits one...Ummm-Believe in Me.

SHELTER IN TIME OF STORM: "Just like a shelter in the time of Storm...He'll see you through...That's what He'll do." The Rolling Stones were demanding "Gimme Shelter."...and the Lord's name is a strong tower...and the righteous can run into it...and be saved. "He'll see you though your hangs ups...He'll see you through your fears...He'll see you through sad times...Honey He'll dry all your tears...and when the tempest is raging...I want you to know, you got a friend that's true...just like a shelter in the time of storm."

THE UNCLOUDY DAY: This one is a traditional song...arranged by Johnny and has that party feel from the Whiskey A Go Go Days. It speaks of a longing for that Uncloudy Day.

HOW SWEET IT IS (TO BE LOVED BY YOU): Wow...one of my favorites...I use to sing this one to Jesus all the time. "How Sweet It Is To be loved by you...thank ya Jesus" Going through ups and downs...and to be sheltered in His arms....sweeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeet!!!!!

NEW MEANING: "Jesus You have given me new life...You have changed it all...set my feet on the solid rock...You made right out of all the wrong...put a new meaning to the same old song."
This sounds like II Corinthians 5:17.."Therefore if any man, wo-man, hu-man is in Christ, they are NEW creations...the OLD things passed away...behold new things have come.'

LIVE IT FROM DAY TO DAY: "I just live it from day to day...cause there's no other way to stay close to You...I might slip...but I won't lose my way...IF I stay close...so close to You...close to You." Yes..these are words to live by. The sad thing is...so many fall away...especially those in the limelight...who make genuine turns to the Lord...but then fall again.

GOLDEN SUN, SILVER MOON: A song from Dion (Run Around Sue, Abraham, Martin and John, and many others)...speaking of the wonders of creation...and how many discover these things...but they are not the creators.

Well...there ya go...one of my favorite gospel albums. I wish I could tell you that since 1982... Johnny is still standing strong. I don't know...but I do know...that at that point in time...he sang the truth...and the truth of the songs has not changed...because the Lord changes not... and Jesus is the same yesterday, today and forever.

I give this album...5 MOOS out of 5.

Love and Rockin' Rivers of Living Waters Kisses
Rodney "MooMan" Boyd

From God...To Heart...To Fingers...To Ears...To Our Hearts: The Larry Belknap Collection

Greetings and Salutations O Ye Music Lovers. I love music also...all kinds of music....and thanks to my son Phillip...I even enjoy some country.

"Preach the Gospel always. if necessary...use words." (St. Francis of Assisi)

As most of you know...I am a Phil Phan. That would be a Phil Keaggy fan. Another Phil Phan is Larry Belknap (the K is silent)...along with his wife Debbie.

Larry plays guitar. Let me rephrase that...I play guitar...Larry PLAYS the guitar. As I listen to Larry play...I hear some Keaggy influence...BUT... then I also am drawn into the BELKNAP sound.

Larry takes the notes on a fret board... and strums and picks the strings... and the notes transcend vibrating sound and develops into a voice... telling a story...that I am drawn into...and when I close my eyes and listen...the story unfolds into my version of the story.

I have seen Larry play guitar in many venues...from small groups with 10 people...to small sanctuaries...to large theater type venues. Also I have heard Larry play everything from rock to blues to classical to everything in between. He can shred with the best and tenderly pluck the strings.

Larry has recorded two projects (thus far)...and each one is a jewel. The first project...pictured first is CHRISTMAS INSPIRATIONS from : Larry Belknap. This is a collection of "traditional Christmas music with Instrumental Acoustic Guitar Arrangement." Larry brings us to the reason for the season by the voice of his guitar on songs like: Angels We Have Heard On High, What Child Is This, God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen, O Holy Night, Christmas Bells, Silent Night, I Saw Three Ships and Holly and The Ivy.

Larry states..."When we learn to see past the wrapping and the gift to the giver of the gift--it's only then you can experience the full joy and blessing of the gift." When talking of the making of this CD Larry says..."The making of this CD has been a tremendous learning experience, an extensive journey of many twists and turns with moments of pure joy and intense sorrow. So it is with Great Joy I offer this labor of love."

Larry's wish for the listener is ...May this Christmas bring to you...something old and something new....an ancient message of virgin birth...a Holy Savior that came to earth imparting through His sacrifice...new hope for man...Eternal life! May this Christmas leave with you...an ancient truth and Hope new! Merry Christmas!!!" (Note on back cover)

Larry's latest project (2008) is EARTH TO HEAVEN. "Earth to Heaven...a compilation of story telling music, reflections of the many life experiences common to us all. Organically Rich and Cosmically Beautiful."

"Larry has been playing guitar since he was 8 years old. Guitar has been his life's passion. his music reflects a deep passion and strong ability to tell a story without words. His careful attention to detail evokes emotions that can personalize the music to the individual listener." (Back Cover notes)

This time around...Larry records (writes and performs) all of the songs...as opposed to CHRISTMAS INSPIRATIONS that was Larry's interpretation of Christmas classics. As we have quoted previously..."Preach the Gospel always. If necessary use words." (St. Francis of Assisi) So it is with EARTH TO HEAVEN.

Larry not only paints images with his guitar...but also able to express with pen in hand. Included in the project notes is LOOKING BACK:

"The eyes of the sunset look back at the day...to view all he choices and changes I've made. To look through the hues of the setting sun casts a new light on the way I have come. The Mountains of challenge, the valleys of fear, have rendered the service of bringing me here. The numerous losses I often have grieved, will brighten the blessings that I will receive. Observing the places where I lost my way and see how they've brought me to this very day. From the location my journey began, there was only one way to the promised land. To say I could get there by some other way, is to say I departed from some other place. To point and say there's where I shouldn't have turned, is to say there's a lesson I needn't have learned. To point ans say there's where I shouldn't have fell, is to say I should have been somebody else. How different the journey appears from the end. Could this be the reason God says to rejoice?" (Looking Back by Larry Belknap)

EARTH TO HEAVEN songs...seem to be progressive in nature (that may be my perspective) of the journey that we all walk. Songs includes: Earth To Heaven, The Departure, Sweet Solace, In The Garden, The Swamp, Unexpected Blessing, Dreams and Visions, Home at Last, All Is Well, and Gift of Love.

Again...each song...can be used as the soundtrack for your journey...that will evoke many emotions...and hopefully point you to the Guide of our journey, the Heavenly Father...as we travel from EARTH TO HEAVEN.

This last picture was taken by me...at a Bruce Cockburn concert. It is really a picture of perspective...of Larry and the love of his life Debbie...with a rack of guitars in the background... not in the forefront. So it is with Larry as God is in the center of his life...with his music in proper perspective.

COMMERCIAL BREAK

If you would like to get copies of these projects...you can contact Larry by email at:

belknaps@netzero.com

The cost is $15.00 each or 2 for $25.00. Include $2.00 for shipping and handling. They can only accept check or cash at this time...no credit cards.


As you know...or maybe you don' know...I only review projects that I like...so it should come as no surprise that The Ol' Ruminator gives Larry's two projects...five moo-moos out of five.

Love and EARTH TO HEAVEN Kisses
Rodney "I'm A Belknap Fan" Boyd

HAVE YOURSELF A KEAGGY LITTLE CHRISTMAS

Merry CHRISTmas and Happy HOLYdays to one and all. Well...Tis Da Season. This is being written the day after Thanksgiving...the day when we not only are full of turkey...but full of thanks...and we give it to the Father.

Before we check out the Keaggy Christmas stuff...one last thought about Thanksgiving. I wrote this on my Facebook profile and I think it really sets the tone for me...for having a truly Merry CHRISTmas and Happy HOLYdays.


"Happy Thanksgiving Day after Thanksgiving Day: Are ya still full of THANKS...are ya still giving it? Let us purpose to GIVE THANKS everyday until the next Thanksgiving Day. In a paraphrase of John Lennon's song Imagine..."Imagine all the people...living life in THANKS... ooo who."


NOTE: The first picture is a picture of two of my favorite people...Brian Mason of The Brian Mason Show on Mix 92.9 on Sunday mornings from 6:00 to 10:00 (you can listen from the radio website if you are not in Nashville)...and Phil Keaggy. I live vicariously through Brian...and his relationship with Phil as a friend. Brian's show has journeyed with me through much of my Christian walk since 1980-1983 at WSM to WLAC for 15 years 1993-1998 and at Mix 92.9 from 1998 until now. Go to http://www.brianmason.com/ to hear a 2 hour interview with Phil about multiple topics including his new Christmas project called Welcome Inn.


Phil has 4 Christmas projects...some available...some not. The first project I got back in 1998 called A CHRISTMAS GIFT. If memory serves me correct...I purchased this from the Phil Keaggy Fan Club. It was a great collection of songs...kicking off with I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus. It has a great version of Jingle Bells...and a Irish sounding of Greensleeves.


In the words of Phil...who performed the percussion "I had a good time banging, shaking, and jingling! Most of all, I hope the album adds to your Christmas a truer sense of that Holy Night when Christ was born; He's our light and Saviour. The meaning of Christmas is worth deeply considering."



NOTE: The pictures do not go along with the albums that I am writing about...but that's the nature of me not knowing what I am doing on this thing when loading pictures.


The next Christmas project released...and I think it was also released from the fan club...was AN ANGEL'S CHRISTMAS. This is one of the few projects that I do not have in my collection. It is Carols performed on Acoustic guitar. Some are the same songs on the previous project with other goodies added.

NOTE: The Christmas projects that Phil has released have a progressive...growing nature to them....especially the first three projects from A CHRISTMAS GIFT...to AN ANGELS CHRISTMAS... to the rich and lush MAJESTY AND WONDER (Phil with the London Festival Orchestra).

Phil + Guitar Instrumentals + Christmas Carols = Christmas Spirit.

NOTE: This is the largest picture I could find for A CHRISTMAS GIFT. The picture of Phil as a young lad is worth the price of the project itself. "Christmas songs often evoke memories of my childhood--like when I was in the fifth grade, as I am pictured on back of the album. There aren't too many of those sorts of pictures around! At any rate, I had a great time making the album...a Christmas album is long overdue." (Phil Keaggy)

The next stage of progression in the Christmas genre' is Phil along with the London Festival Orchestra on MAJESTY AND WONDER (An Instrumental Christmas). Again, many previous songs on the two previous projects are recorded...with a fresh spin of the London Festival Orchestra playing along. Other songs not on the previous projects includes...Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring, Nativity Suite (with Visitation, Shepherds' Song, and Flight Into Egypt).

The song that grabs me every time...and sends chills up and down my spine...is SILENT NIGHT. There is just something about the swell and ebb and flow of the strings on this...that reminds me of a Gerry and the Pacemakers song (Don't Let The Sun Catch You Crying).

This brings us to the latest project called WELCOME INN (A Phil Keaggy Christmas). The artwork alone is worth the price of the project. In the bleak, cold winter... there is a warm, inviting respite from the harshness of this world. So it is with this project.

Once again...this is a reflection of Phil's past Christmas memories... but this time...more vocals are included, including his daughter Olivia and his son Ian singing along on some of the songs. There are also some fine musicians including Johnathan Willis (strings, horns and pennywhistle), Catilin Evenson (violin), Cathy Chalmers (drums), Tom Howard (piano and string arrangements), Pedro Eustache (duduk), John Catchings (cello),.

NOTE: Tom Howard...passed away on January 2010 of a heart attack while walking in a Nashville park. He has a great musical heritage in early Jesus music and on up to the time of his death. When I hear him play on this project...brings a tear to my eyes...of sorrow for us left behind...and of joy for Tom...in the presence of the Father...well done good and faithful servant.

The first song is Best Christmas Morn...but as I type I am listening to the Brian Mason interview with Phil... and Phil reveals that in retrospect... he wishes the song Welcome Inn was the first song. According to Phil... this song sounds like mix of a Chieftan's Christmas song and Paul McCartney's Martha My Dear (off The Beatles White Album about his English Sheepdog Martha). This is one of my favorites on the project (hard to pick just one)...as it is so inviting. Again, according to Phil it is an invitation to the "listener, traveller, pilgrim" for warmth, acceptance, nourishment...that you find in the Father's Inn/house. The Father WELCOMES us IN to the INN.

Other songs that draws me in...AN ON THAT DAY (along with Olivia)...GOD REST YE MERRY, GENTLEMEN (with Olivia and Ian...previously recorded with Kim Hill) and of course SHADES OF GREEN AND RED...based on SHADES OF GREEN.. (always a crowd pleaser in concert).

NOTE: This song was on Phil's mind when he woke up...and with the final cut...the ending was just as he had imagined. When you listening to SHADES OF GREEN AND RED...you want to have yourself a Merry Irish Christmas.

All in all...you have a wonderful portrait of the Incarnation of God entering planet earth via a baby...who grew up to manifest the will of God on planet earth as it is in heaven...and to die in my place because of my sins...to reunite me with my heavenly Father.

In a world that is becoming so politically correct...where people would rather see Santa Claus or an Easter Bunny hanging on a cross...rather than the reality of Jesus...Phil points out in one of his songs about the story of Christ..."should they ban the carols in the public square...and freedom seems lost in the land of the free..."

Thanks to Phil...and also Brian for singing about the reason for life. As you have your self a KEAGGY LITTLE CHRISTMAS...realize that Phil is pointing to the true reason for the season... hand how you can have a Merry CHRISTmas...and Happy HOLYdays.

If you would like a copy of WELCOME INN go to www.philkeaggy.com or Itunes, or CD Baby or Walmart.

Love and Merry Kisses
Rodney "Tis Da Season" Boyd

CRIMSON AND BLUE by Phil Keaggy

Greetings and Rockin' Salutations my friends. I hope you are doing well. Today...the Ruminatin' Rod's Record Review...is again...one of my favorites.

Today, I review...CRIMSON AND BLUE by Mr. Phil Keaggy. As many of you know...and if you didn't know.. now you do know...I am a big fan of the music of Phil Keaggy. Well...I say the music of Phil Keaggy...but really the man himself. I first heard of Phil Keaggy when the bass player, friend, brother in the Lord...Mark Webster gave me a copy of Phil Keaggy's WHAT A DAY. I had never heard of Phil so I put it on the old turntable and gave it a spin. I was NOT impressed. It seemed a little to mellow for me. At the time I was listening to music by RESURRECTION BAND (from the Jesus People USA Community in Chicago)..."Music To Raise The Dead." This lukewarm reception by me to Phil's music quickly changed. I fell in love with the mellow/tender side of Phil...but later on...after listening to syndicated radio shows like the SCOTT ROSS SHOW...JESUS SOLID ROCK (with Jerry Bryant)...and hanging out at Koinonia Bookstore...I heard more and more about Phil.

Phil was in a band in the early 70's called GLASS HARP. They were a power trio...who were up and coming. They were signed to the EPIC LABEL...and managed by Van Morrison's manager. They were recording in Jimmy Hendrix's Electric Ladyland studio...and were opening up of whoever was popular at the time.

Glass Harp consisted of Daniel Peccio on bass.. John Sferra on drums...and a young guitarist by the name of Phil Keaggy. The group was famous for their jams. Originally from the Youngstown Ohio area...they were contemporary of people like the James Gang (Funk # 49, Walk Away). They played at Kent State...and were scheduled to play at Kent State but were not allowed to set up by the National Guard because of the tragic riots.

Glass Harp went on to record three studio albums...and a live project GLASS HARP LIVE AT CARNEGIE HALL (opening up for the Kinks). There was a synergistic quality with the three...and driven by the guitar gymnastics of Phil. An oddity at the time was the spiritual bent to their songs. Phil had become a Christian (the others later)...and Phil eventually dropped out and began recording Jesus Music (later to be dubbed CCM...Contemporary Christian Music). Phil would do a lot of studio work and tour with people like Honeytree, 2nd Chaper of Acts, Paul Clark, etc...and then eventually ended up in Freeville New York at the Love Inn Christian Community (See the book Scott Free by Scott Ross). He played in the community band called the Phil Keaggy Band...played with Ted Sanquist and recorded a songs of worship...along with the afore mentioned project WHAT A DAY. It was also at this time that Phil recorded LOVE BROKE THROUGH and EMERGING. He also recorded a ground breaking project...THE MASTER AND THE MUSICIAN (instrumental). NOTE: Wow...I didn't mean to ramble on about the history... but I did find it refreshing to remember the roots of Phil.


I have 50+ projects by Phil...ranging from instrumentals, Spanish, Blues, Rock, and every genre in between. If I had to choose a favorite album...I would have to choose...CRIMSON AND BLUE. It is this project...that captures the guitar genius of Phil. Sure his other projects have Phil on guitar...and they are amazing...but nothing really captures the essence of Phil like he is in concert.

NOTE: Another reason this holds a special place in my heart is my Dad. I had ordered this project and received it on a Saturday...and played it and was blown away by it. A little later on...my Dad stopped by and picked me up and we went to Eagleville Tennessee for a chitlin' supper. (Chitlins being the intestines of pigs...cleansed...boiled...and fried...also NASTY!) The project was released in 1993...and Dad passed away in October of 1993 of pancreatic cancer. CRIMSON AND BLUE always reminds me of this bitter time in my life...and helped me cope with the death of my dad. As with all of Phil's music...it becomes touchstones in my life to encourage me, lift me up, point me to Jesus.

As I said...this project showcases Phil's guitar genius...more than any of his other projects. If you notice their are different CD covers all with the CRIMSON AND BLUE LINK. Phil released one called BLUE which as the Limited Editon Rock Version of CRIMSON AND BLUE. There were extended jams...and a couple of extra songs (The Further Adventures Of, All Our Wishes, and a cover of Badfinger's Baby Blue). This was released for distribution by Word on EPIC (Glass Harp's original label).

There was also som other goodies in a project called REVELATOR (after the song John the Revelator)...with "a few variations on the themes in Crimson and Blue, celebration of life, reunion, restoration and forgiveness. It's also a peek into some of the fun, unrehearsed moments in the studio with some of my oldest and best pals." (Revelator Liner notes)

The band on the project includes: Phil Keaggy (guitars and lead vocals), John Sferra (drums),
Wade Jaynes (bass), Phil Madeira (Hammond B-3 and background vocals), Lynn Nichols (Background vocals and guitar) NOTE: Phil Madeira and Lynn Nichols were with Phil in the Love Inn Days and in The Phil Keaggy Band on the album EMERGING).

I saw the group in Nashville on the Crimson and Blue tour at 328 Performance Hall and it was flawless rock and roll.

Well...from the opening field drum beat of the song SHOUTS OF JOY to the electrified version of the old blues song JOHN THE REVELATOR....to the ending, tender instrumental of NOTHING BUT THE BLOOD OF JESUS (the true crimson in our lives) this project draws me into the presence of the Father...via the blood of Jesus.

I give CRIMSON AND BLUE...an enthusiastic 5 MOO-MOOS.

Love and Solid Rock and Roll Kisses because of the Solid Rock Jesus
Rodney "Shouts of Joy" Boyd

SOUL'S CHAPEL Marty Stuart and his Fabulous Superlatives

Greetings Moosic Lovers...welcome to the world of Ruminatin' Rod' Record Review Moos-icology.

Marty Stuart is no newcomer to the music scene. He stared out as early as 12 years old...and has performed with everyone from Lester Flatt, Doc and Merle Watson, and Johnny Cash...as well as many solo endeavours and collaborations with multiple artists. he is well versed in the stringed instruments including guitar and mandolin.

His personal life has been a rocky road between faith and the honkytonk...between the glory and the flame. As he walked the tightrope of life...he fell of a few times (haven't we all?) I was reading the other day how...after a couple of drunk driving arrests, a divorce from Cindy CAsh (one of Johnny's daughters)... (Hey...the man aint' perfect...but neither am I) that Mavis Staples and her sister came to Marty and gave him a Roebuck "Pops" Staples original guitar. They told him that Pops would want him to have it. It became a lifeline to him. Currently Marty has a show on RFD T.V. called THE MARTY STUART SHOW....that showcases his Fabulous Superalatives and Connie Smith (his wife)...and others.

SOUL'S CHAPEL is a delightul, refreshing, stimulating collection of gospel songs mixed in with a blend of gospel, country, blues, shimmering pop sounds with a strong message.

The CD cover itself is a throw back to the 60's with the artwork and promises of Stereo...High Fidelity and a promise of the project being...COMPATIBLE WITH ALL DENOMINATIONS...on Superlative Records.
To me this project is very guitar driven (of course with multiple instruments)...and draws you in from the "git-go".

The CD opens up with a swamp sounding song called SOMEBODY SAVED ME, written by Roebuck "Pops" Staples. This is the first of two song written by Pops Staples with the second one being MOVE ALONG TRAIN...that is sung with Marty by the familiar sounds of Mavis (I'll Take You There) Staples...of the Staples Singers. It just does not get more souful than this.



I was first introduced to this project...when a Physical Therapist...and good brother in the Lord... asked me to come to the Union Rescue Mission and sing a song witht he band from his church. He told me that he could hear me singing the song COME INTO THE HOUSE OF THE LORD...from this project. Well...he was right...I truly enjoyed joining the band and giving my rendition. I sung a second song called FREE AT LAST...blowing my harmonica like BLIND LEMON PLEDGE (my bluesman persona). Well...I bought the SOUL'S CHAPEL CD sog I could practice the one song...and fell in love with the rest of the project.

Other songs includes THE GOSPEL STORY OF NOAH'S ARK...a great retelling of the story...to LORD, GIVE ME JUST A LITTLE MORE TIME... where Marty cries out...that "I'm ready when you call Lord, give me just a little more time." It is a song about being ready...but relaizing that there is a harvest that needs to be brought in. The songs intertwine musical styles from rockabilly to traditional gospel sounds...deeply rooted in the Missisippi Delta sounds that Marty grew up with as a child.


A little side note...Marty reminds me of a banty rooster ready to rock and roll at the drop of the hat...but not getting to far from his roots. Of course...if the hat is dropped...you will see one of the most famous known mullet pompadours in music history. Put on a Nudie suit...with all the spark and shimmer of Porter Waggoner...and you have country music personified.

Well...that's it for this review. I hope you enjoyed it...and would even pick you up a copy for your listening enjoyment.


I would have to give this project 5 moo-moos...out of 5. Of course...I do not review projects that I don't like...so if you want a critical critique (C.C.)...you will have to go elsewhere.



Love and Pompadoured Kisses
Rodney "Come Into The House" Boyd

SONGS FROM THE INNER COURT

Howdy-Do music lovers. Our last review was RUMINATOR UNPLUGGED...and now we review one of my favorite albums of all time.


NOTE: If you go to the Ruminator Reading Review...you will see a review of Pat Boone's book A NEW SONG.


This album...to me...is the sonic version of the book. It is an intimate journey of one man...into the presence of God...and tends to draw you into the presence of God also.



The album came out in 1974...and was in the midst of the Jesus Movement. Pat had given Randy Stonehill and Larry Norman $2,500 to record a couple of independent "Jesus Music" records...and even formed a company called Lamb and Lion Records to be used as an outlet for Pat's Jesus music, Dogwood, DeGarmo and Key and many others. I remember going to a Christian bookstore...and purchased this album... SONGS FROM THE INNER COURT...and AWAITING YOUR REPLY by the first Christian Metal group...RESURRECTION BAND (Music To Raise The Dead). The look on the person behind the counter was priceless...as I explained my eclectic tastes in music.




Pat was a hot property...and was even on the cover of The Rolling Stone magazine...writing about his New Song experience. It's interesting that one of the people mentioned on the cover was Pat's golfing buddy Alice Cooper...who was also a Christian.



If you remember...back in the 50's...and even to this day...Pat is demonized for singing songs by Little Richard as he covered Tutti Frutti, Rip It Up, Long Tall Sally and many other artists including Fats Domino with Ain't That A Shame, Blueberry Hill. Here was milk drinking, namby pampy, white shoes and white boy singing and homogenizing black music. The fact is...many people would never hear some of the black music of the time...if it was not for squeaky clean Pat Boone. During Pat's heyday...he was up their with Elvis (a good friend)...of Pat's. Even during his heyday...Pat was a believer who made decisions based on his Christian beliefs...refused certain sponsors, did not do certain movies, which he would later compromise (see the book A NEW SONG for details of the downward spiral).


NOTE: Pat released an album called IN A METAL MOOD...big band versions of heavy metal hits. From Smoke On The Water to Crazy Train... Pat shook things up a little bit.

SONGS FROM THE INNER COURT... again was an intimate rendering of old classics and new songs of vertical worship. As Pat puts it..."Yes, coming to a private audience with a an earthly king is a thrilling frightening experience. But what about an intimate meeting with God, the Lord of Heaven and earth? In His own inner court!" According to Pat...he has sung for kings and queens and presidents...but being able to enter into the presence of God by invitation does not compare.


I heard an interview with him talking about the recording process...as they turned down the studio lights...with minimal instrumentation...an attitude of desire...and intermittent conversation with God and singing unto Him.

I recommend...to turn the lights down low...settle into your chair...maybe a cup of tea and the Bible close at hand...and enter in to His presence.

The project opens up with Just As I Am...flows into I Can Hear My Saviour Calling....songs of request with Into My Heart....declarations of submission with I Am Thine O Lord and Have Your Own Way, Lord. Other songs of praise, adoration and surrender continues and ends with the final track...A Sacrifice of Praise.

NOTE: I first heard Pat sing A Sacrifice of Praise on a Good News Television Special by the Full Gospel Businessmen Fellowship International (FGBMFI). On the show was Kathryn Khulman, Oral Roberts, Demos Shakarian, and others with Pat singing...in English and in the Spirit as his NEW SONG...flowed in worship and adoration. It still sends chills up and down my spine...especially when I sing along.

The liner notes close out with the invitation from Pat..."come with me. Let's leave everything else behind us for a while, walk reverently into the Holy of Holies, kneel before the very throne of God, and worship the King. He welcomes us, He dies so that we could have this incredible privilege, and I will go into the Inner Court." The final Scripture verse is found in the book of
I Corinthians 14:15..."I will pray with the spirit, and I will pray with understanding also: I will sing with the spirit, and I will sing with the understanding also."

I give this project 5 moo-moos.

Love and Holy Kisses

Rodney "Entering In" Boyd