The Gospel Plowboys Something to Be Said

The Gospel Plowboys Deliver Soulful Truths on “Something to Be Said”

By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine

The air crackles with anticipation whenever The Gospel Plowboys announce a new release, and their fifth album, Something to Be Said, certainly lives up to the hype. This latest offering from the beloved bluegrass gospel outfit, released via Morning Glory Music, is a rich tapestry woven from original compositions and cherished classics, all delivered with the band’s signature blend of earnest conviction and masterful musicianship. It’s an album that doesn’t just entertain; it uplifts, inspires, and offers a much-needed dose of spiritual solace in a world often starved for it.

From the very first notes, Something to Be Said establishes itself as a testament to The Gospel Plowboys’ unwavering commitment to their craft and their message. The album is a carefully curated journey through themes of faith, redemption, and the enduring power of a life lived in devotion. What truly sets this collection apart is the seamless integration of new material alongside well-loved hymns and gospel staples. As guitarist and vocalist Michael Jenkins notes, the album proudly features “original songs written by The Gospel Plowboys and other songs previously recorded by the likes of Randy Travis and the Stanley Brothers.” This blend showcases the band’s respect for tradition while also demonstrating their vibrant creative spirit.

The Gospel Plowboys’ strength lies in their collective talent, and Something to Be Said puts each member’s contributions on full display. Michael Jenkins (guitar, vocals) and Kris Miller (vocals) anchor the vocal harmonies, their voices blending with a natural ease that speaks of years of collaboration. Daniel Schronce (mandolin, vocals) adds intricate melodic lines and contributes to the vocal tapestry, while Peden Williams’ banjo work is a steady, driving force, providing that quintessential bluegrass punch. Alec McCallister’s fiddle weaves through each track with grace and precision, adding layers of emotional depth, and David Brown’s vocals further enrich the group’s already impressive vocal blend. The addition of guest musician Aaron Ramsey on bass provides a solid and tasteful foundation, rounding out the ensemble with understated elegance.

The album opens with “Keep Your Lure in the Water,” a track co-written by Jeff Perry, Michael Anthony Curtis, and Randy Travis. It’s an immediate affirmation of the album’s spiritual focus, setting a tone of hopeful perseverance. Michael Jenkins’ “Preachin’ Silas” follows, a lively original that showcases the band’s songwriting prowess. The Gospel Plowboys demonstrate their interpretive skills with James Wimmer’s “Sinners Dream” and Connie Lynn Powell’s “I’m Gonna Die on the Battlefield,” both delivered with a raw authenticity that resonates deeply.

Kris Miller contributes two powerful originals: “I’m Taking a Trip” and “Prodigal.” These tracks highlight the band’s ability to craft new narratives that feel timeless and universally relatable within the gospel tradition. The album also revisits beloved hymns like E.A. Hoffman’s “Glory to His Name” and James C. Moore’s “Never Grow Old,” reimagining them with fresh energy while preserving their inherent reverence.

One of the standout tracks is the thought-provoking “Are You Praying Hard or Hardly Praying,” penned by Mike Richards and Rodney P. Lay Jr. It’s a question that challenges listeners to introspection, delivered with the band’s characteristic sincerity. The inclusion of Carter Stanley’s “Let Me Walk Lord, by Your Side” is a beautiful nod to bluegrass gospel’s foundational artists, executed with respectful devotion. The album concludes with a powerful duo: the co-written “Gloryland is Just in Sight” by Michael Jenkins and Kris Miller, which paints a vivid picture of heavenly anticipation, and Ronnie Hinson’s iconic “The Lighthouse,” a stirring anthem of guidance and hope.

Something to Be Said isn’t just an album; it’s an experience. It’s a testament to the enduring power of bluegrass gospel music and the unwavering faith that fuels The Gospel Plowboys. With each track, they prove their commitment to both honoring the genre’s rich heritage and contributing new, meaningful works to its canon. For anyone seeking music that nourishes the soul and uplifts the spirit, Something to Be Said is an essential listen. The Gospel Plowboys have once again delivered a collection that will undoubtedly resonate with their dedicated fanbase and draw in new listeners seeking authentic, heartfelt, and impeccably performed gospel music.