A New Shade of Blue Record Review

A New Shade of Blue
The Gospel Truth
By Dave Bagdade

A New Shade Of Blue has been one of the leading bands in Nova Scotia's vibrant bluegrass scene for more than a decade. Although the group's fine live shows have always featured spiritual material, The Gospel Truth is the group's first full-length gospel project.

The band features Dean Simm on mandolin and guitar; Craig Simm on bass; Todd Macumber on guitar; and Brett Decker on banjo, fiddle and Scruggs-style guitar. They are all fine musicians, but the group's strength lies in its outstanding vocals. All four members sing, with most of the leads handled by Craig Simm and Macumber -- who also has an outstanding piercing tenor. Although none of the material is original, much of it is distinct, and even on well-worn favorites such as Satan's Jewel Crown and He Said If I Be Lifted Up, the arrangements are creative and interesting. This is a fine recording which is definitely worth seeking out.

Other songs include He'll Take You In, I'm Working On The Road To Gloryland, Paradise Is Waiting, Wings Of Love, Hold To The Hand Of My Lord, On The Sea Of Life, When I Wake Up To Sleep No More, Walkin', Runnin', Flyin', Until Then, My Lord's Gonna Be There, Kneel Down And Pray Up, and I Won't Have To Cross Jordan Alone. BMP