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Eloquent, straightforward, and full of homespun vigor, the American folk hymn of the early 19th century reflected the robust enthusiasm and hardiness so characteristic of life on the frontier. Simple religious texts, easily learned, were set to popular melodies drawn from the folk songs, ballads, and dances of the day, creating a lively hymn tradition that flourished in the camp meetings and revivalist gatherings of the “Second Great Awakening.” It was truly a music of the people. Similarly, the African-American spiritual – a close cousin to the folk hymn – expressed the profound emotions of the slave experience while drawing on the same musical sources and religious ideals that formed the American folk hymn. Other sacred song traditions also grew from these same roots. The musical worship of the early Mormon Church, for example, often included newly-penned texts sung to popular tunes of the day, and one of the most beloved LDS hymns, “Come, Come, Ye Saints,” is itself an authentic American folk hymn. This recording honors the enduring vitality of these folk hymns and spirituals and their ability to anchor the soul in faith. From the sturdy strains of “Saints Bound for Heaven” and the fervent entreaty of “I Want Jesus to Walk with Me” to one of the most popular folk hymns of all time, “Amazing Grace,” these songs and hymns gave comfort, hope, and confidence to the early American pioneers of two hundred years ago. Their power and simplicity still inspire us today.

Release date: March 24, 2009.