Church in the Wildwood (CD - 2005)

Compiled and produced by John Carter Cash, this lovely collection of spirituals, sung by June Carter Cash, acts as both a nod to the Carter family's legacy and a tribute to June's memory (she passed away in 2003). Almost all of the tunes here were written by A.P. Carter, including several that have long since attained the status of immortal classics, like "Keep on the Sunnyside" and "Will the Circle Be Unbroken."

June's voice was already well-weathered by the time of these recordings, but that simply adds a cracked, fragile charm to her performances and underscores the heartfelt sincerity of the songs. Terry Smith's "The Far Side Banks of Jordan," a duet with Johnny Cash, is a case in point, as is the beautiful "Anchored in Love," which features vocals from Janette, Joe, and Dale Carter. Simple and stirring, these gospel songs are cornerstones of the American musical tradition. minimize