Reviews

Vermont Guardian, 12/22/06
by Alan Lewis (excerpted)
Bluegrass Gospel Project, Makes You Strong

Bluegrass Gospel Project was originally a one-shot ensemble, brought together only for First Night Burlington 2001. But instead of then breaking up, the Project has picked up steam. The band’s Wander On CD was among the Vermont Guardian’s “Best of 2005” picks, and 2006 has to be the band’s biggest year yet, with a great tour through the Northeast including a memorable outdoors appearance on Boston Common. The new Makes You Strong CD improves on the 2005 release, starting powerfully with great interpretations of Peter Rowan’s “Revelation” and “Is That You,” a Buddy and Julie Miller creation. It will be interesting to see whether Bluegrass Gospel Project can top 2006.

Seven Days, 11/8/2006
by Robert Resnik (excerpted)
Bluegrass Gospel Project, Makes You Strong (Vital Records 404)

On their fourth album, Makes You Strong, Bluegrass Gospel Project solidifies their legacy as one of the greatest acoustic bands ever to spring from northern Vermont. It's no small wonder, as each of the band's six members is a seasoned player.

It's not just high talent level that makes this band special. The sextet has created a mighty, unified sound that honors tradition, while taking the music in exciting new directions.

Read the full review here.

Seven Days, 3/23/05
by Casey Rea (excerpted)
Bluegrass Gospel Project, Wander On(Vital Records 303 CD)

Vermont's merchants of traditional music, the Bluegrass Gospel Project, return with their third release, Wander On. Recorded live in concert throughout the Northeast between December '03 and November '04, the disc is a fine overview of the group's homey sound. Blending old-time styles such as folk, bluegrass and gospel with subtle pop sensibility, the six-piece has become one of New England's premier concert acts.

The group weaves effortlessly between winsome harmonies and impassioned instrumental work. The traditional track "A Beautiful Life" is a terrific example of the band's harmonic blend -- a soulful stack of complementary vocal tones. It's this juxtaposition between foot-stomping licks and sonorous singing that make the group so compelling.

"Come Let Us Go Back to God" brings the band's gospel influence to the fore; the tune's a cappella harmonies are gorgeous and authentic. Meticulously arranged, the track showcases Bluegrass Gospel Project's reverence for their source material.

Sin, heartache, worship, redemption -- it's all here. Wander On is another fine release from a group that deserves every accolade it gets.

Vermont Life, Spring 2003:
"This group is a force to be reckoned with onstage … their voices and harmonies can make you see the light, and tremble."