Two previously released CDs now on one disc. The Martins are a Southern Christian trio of one male and two female singers who have produced many accompanied recordings. This collection is their only a cappella CD, featuring spirituals such as 'Holy, Holy, Holy,' ''Tis So Sweet To Trust In Jesus' and 'Softly And Tenderly.' The Martins' sound is a pleasing hybrid of influences, including both the white Southern church tradition that was represented by shape note singing and the hymns of Ira Sankey, as well as the melodic inflections that are familiar to all who hear black gospel. One track, a medley of five songs, travels a similar orbit to Take 6, while others have the gently lulling melodies of the simplest folk tune. No matter, they are all rendered exquisitely, and their sincere emotion is amplified by the restraint of the production, which is present and immediate. After being out of print for many years this rerelease also includes an additional 12 tracks form an earlier live recording. The Martins have garnered six Dove awards and a Grammy nomination to become one of Christian music's most critically acclaimed and best-selling vocal groups. |
