Billy - The Early Years (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack)

iTunes Review

As one might expect, the songs found on the soundtrack to the 2008 biopic about the Reverend Billy Graham are steeped in Southern gospel tradition. Familiar hymns, classic pop/country tunes and newly-written material are interpreted by both well-known artists (Alan Jackson, Michael W. Smith) and those deserving of wider exposure (China Edelman, Gregory Page). The album has the old-fashioned dignity of a sepia photograph, befitting the film’s 1930s-‘40s ambiance. The most successful tracks include Patty Griffith’s starkly moving “Ruth’s Prayer” (based on a poem by the late Ruth Graham), Josh Turner’s stirring interpretation of “Almost Persuaded” (sung in a classic gospel baritone), and China Edelman’s haunting “Shelter Me” (written by the great Buddy and Julie Miller). More obviously commercial forays such as “Over the Next Hill” (a stately Johnny Cash song sung by Brooks & Dunn with Third Day’s Mac Powell) and “Low” (performed by Sara Evans) are also effective. The Michael W. Smith/Melinda Doolittle duet “Amazing Love” adds a touch of dramatic balladry to these mostly reflective numbers. Though a bit stiff and careful in spots, Billy – The Early Years holds moments of genuine musical grace.