But though I've always been among the legion of Merle Haggard fans, I never had an inkling that this ex-prisoner who made a career writing and performing honky tonkish and drinking songs is just as effective doing purely religious stuff. This compilation is quite an eye opener.

His performance of traditional hymns such as How Great Thou Art, What A Friend We Have In Jesus, Old Rugged Cross, Where No One Stands Alone, Softly And Tenderly, etc. can stand up and hold their own against those of other artists who had tried recording religious hymns before him. Tammy Wynette, Willie Nelson, Dolly Parton, and even the late king himself, Elvis Presley, have all tried their hands in this particular genre and placed alongside this exalted company, Merle is definitely an equal. His performance has never been as forceful and as effective.

This album is a testament to the niche that Merle occupies in the field of songs.

8 of 8 found the following review helpful:


Merles's best  Feb 08, 2000 By clay mccarter
This album is undoubtedly one of Merle Haggards best ever. I consider this to be some of the finest gospel music ever recorded. The music goes right to the heart. This album is the epitomy of Merle haggard.

8 of 8 found the following review helpful:


ParExcellence  Feb 03, 2000 By Lloyd Eddy
Haggard's interpretation of these great songs of faith proves once again that he is just as much at home with gospel as with ballads or honky-tonk. His rich baritone brings to the listener such a beautiful blend of praise and consolation that it lifts one to a higher plane, and that should be the whole idea of gospel music. It's just terrific!

4 of 4 found the following review helpful:


WHAT A FRIEND WE HAVE IN JESUS  Jul 14, 2004 By Marcy Ryan
5 STARS, every person will feel a closeness that only Merle Haggard can portray for the love of Our Lord. Every song is moving, lovely and filled with love for all people. When you hear the story about his mother, it brings one to tears. Such love, such a voice.......thanks, Merle.

2 of 2 found the following review helpful:


Calming and Relaxing  Feb 25, 2011 By Hinch
I accidentally discovered this album while browsing music on Amazon. I never knew Merle Haggard had recorded a gospel album. I'm happy I found it. This is one of the best, if not the best, gospel albums I've ever bought. I don't own many, because even though I love gospel music, it's always been hard for me to find gospel music I can listen to. This album was produced by Merle, and finished in 1981. The musical instruments are mostly acoustic, sometimes only a piano and bass, sometimes a steel guitar or fiddle or acoustic guitar. There are no electric guitars. A couple of songs include a choir. The music is never overbearing on his voice.

Merle Haggard's pure voice may have something to do with it, but listening to this album is a very calming experience. I highly recommend it, if you like Merle and/or gospel music. By the way, I also bought one for my Mother, and she loves it.

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