Gospel Plow by Elizabeth Cook

Any regular reader of my blog knows that Elizabeth Cook is one of our favorites here. In 2012 Cook released this EP of Gospel tinged music that was one of the best releases of the year.

Anyone wanting to get an idea of the range of this singer should run not walk to her album Welder which is stunningly good but for a look at how enjoyable Gospel music can be with some modern alt country influences not much will beat this.

Having seen her live this past summer I can attest that these songs play ever so well in concert. Opening with Clap Along Sing Along " If I Had My Way" one knows that Cook herself has been in a few of these revivalist churches whose energy can blow the roof off as this song certainly does.

With some sweet harmonies and a high note that is just perfect Cook follows that with the country twinged Gospel Plow. When Cook tells you to " keep your hand on the Gospel Plow" you never want to let it go.

Every Humble Knee Must Bow Cook takes us down to the river to sing a song of redemption and the knowledge that pride must leave before one can find God.

The Other Side of Life might well be the prettiest song you will hear this year. It is almost beyond words. With just an organ, a slight guitar and Cook's incredible voice we hear her say that she, as she approaches death, she feels like singing as she is on the Other Side of Life. Truly uplifting.

After we wipe out tears from that song Elizabeth wants us to get up and move and with the gospel stomp of New Jerusalem calling we certainly will. I dare you not to tap your foot along to this one.

Three Men of God gives us some Gospel step behind the story of Abraham, Lazarus, and Joshua and Cook with some great singing and what might be self harmonizing. Truly incredible.

The album ends with a reminder that Cook may sing country, may have the angelic voice for Gospel but that she might have a rock and roll heart. Singing the Velvet Underground's Jesus etc. Cook plaintively asks Jesus to help her find her proper place. Is there really any sentiment that is more correct in our talks with God. I saw her sing this in concert as well and it was a highlight of the show.

This is a wonderful album and will be overlooked at years end but make no bones about it, any list of the years best that does not include this album will have a gaping hole in it.

Top notch.