You can almost hear the ragged landscape of western Montana on Never Look Back, the new album from John Barnett (Author of Vineyard classic, "Holy & Anointed One"). There is both space and weight to these recordings, which even in digital form feel lived in and warm. The echoes of Americana throughout the album would settle comfortably among music from T-Bone Burnett, Steve Earle and Wilco among others.
Christian music fans will be reminded of great albums from Adam Again, The Lost Dogs and Buddy & Julie Miller. But it’s Barnett’s gritty delivery paired with uplifting songs of praise that set Never Look Back apart from its contemporaries.
As a songwriter, Barnett’s roots as a worship leader are clearly displayed on the album, especially on tracks like “Hallelujah” and “Love Lifted”. Add in a cast of musicians that suggest the recording was less sterile studio and more farmhouse get-down, and you’ve got one of the finest examples of roots worship you’re likely to hear.
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