Nat Stuckey Connie Smith

Item: God Will
Author: Olin Jenkins

God Will

(1969)

Reviewed by Olin Jenkins

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Label Music Row Talent RecordsThe Phantom Tollbooth2001

country gospel rockabilly

Calling all fans of Elvis Presley's gospel recordings! Here's a runner-up, in the country music vein. Originally released in December 1969, Sunday Morning has been re-released as God Will. Connie Smith and the late Nat Stuckey have some straight country and rockabilly influences that shine in bright moments (to wit: "Did You Let Your Light Shine?" includes the neatest inclusion of "This Little Light of Mine" I've ever heard, and there's a fine rendition of "Daddy Sang Bass" here). While some tunes are absolutely dated ("Well It's All Right" and "His Love Takes Care of Me" sound too much like Nancy Sinatra and Lee Hazlewood), most of this project is smooth, due to its co-production by RCA Records ace Felton Jarvis. Stuckey's solid bass voice rivals Tennessee Ernie Ford or Elvis, and Smith's vocals are incredibly on-target and rendered with emotion. This recording is traditional country which truly deserves attention for its stronger moments. A near-classic, and I'm pleased it's been re-released.

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