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Heavenly Harmonies

H. F. Corbin | ATLANTA, GA USA | 07/09/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"In 1959 Jim Edward, Maxine and Bonnie Brown made country music history when they were the first group to have a cross-over song that made it to number 1 on the pop charts, "The Three Bells." A similar version had been made popular in both France and the U. S. by Edith Piaf. The Browns, originally from Arkansas had other hits before they disbanded in 1967: "Here Today and and Gone Tomorrow," "Looking Back To See," "The Old Lamplighter," etc. The group got together again in 1996 to record this CD. Jim Edward is still singing and giving concerts to this day.



"The Family Bible" contains 32 songs including the title song. My favorite is "When they Ring Those Golden Bells." Other outstanding arrangements I particularly like include "Whispering Hope," "An Evening Prayer," "My Latest Sun Is Sinking Fast," "How Great Thou Art," and "Amazing Grace"-- this group starts out singing a cappella and then are joined by back-up instruments, a risky undertaking since the singers have to be singing on key, as this fine group is. The only selection I would have omitted is "Jezebel," which appears to be sung by a male quartet although there are no liner notes with the CD. I would have also left off the Hammond organ on some of the cuts but that's just a personal taste of mine. I prefer a gospel piano and guitar much more.



What the Browns have given the world is close incredibly beautiful otherworldly harmony that can come only from familes and/or groups who have sung together for a long time. The Louvin Brothers had it (two of their songs are included here, "The Family Who Prays" and "The Weapon of Prayer") as do several other groups; but no one does it better than these three individuals. It is so good to know that they made this CD such a short time ago and that Jim Edward still sings.

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Family Bible audio CD by the Browns

H. F. Corbin | 07/26/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Offers 10 inspiring classic old gospel songs presented in a country (Johnny Cash type) style. Very enjoyable tape. Wish it was longer."