Reviewed by Dave Brassington

The Chuck Wagon Gang have been recording since 1936. Originally, the group comprised of D P "Dad' Carter and three of his nine children, namely Jim, Rose and Anna and were called The Carter Quartet. Like all groups, they went through many changes of personnel but always remained a family group changing their name to The Chuck Wagon Gang in 1936. In their heyday they were part of a country music scene which encompassed gospel music with open arms. It is perhaps difficult for modern fans of country music to realise how much gospel and bluegrass music was sidelined by mainstream country in the late 1950s as the Nashville establishment sought desperately to fight off the ravages of rock and roll. The Chuck Wagon Gang were major players in the history of country and gospel music and it is amazing to read that they sold 45 million records throughout their career which included 70 different albums. It would appear that the selections on this good value double CD emanate from recordings made in the '70s and '80s. We have 30 tracks in all ranging from "Amazing Grace", "Power In The Blood", "The Church In The Wildwood", "A Beautiful Life", etc. The quality of singing is good and the four voices harmonise exceptionally well. In these days of high musical production it is actually very refreshing to listen to clear vocals and basic accompaniment. A fascinating glimpse into the American gospel singing heritage.

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