Inspirational Journey

Inspirational Journey

On this gospel-themed collection, the artist who brought "new traditionalism" to Nashville goes all the way back to the Rock of Ages. Old-time religion meets old-time country on "Feet on the Rock," with other material ranging from the Judgement Day literalism of "Which Way Will You Choose" to the mystically metaphorical "See Myself in You" to a stripped-to-the-bone, album-closing rendition of "Amazing Grace." The loping "The Carpenter" (one of three songs cowritten by Travis) features guest vocals from Waylon Jennings and Jessi Colter, while "Doctor Jesus," with its mournful steel guitar, could pass for vintage George Jones. Though some of the lesser tracks are stronger on sermonizing than musical appeal, the melodic uplift of "Baptism" could highlight any Travis album. <I>--Don McLeese</I>