Larry Howard - American Roots (1998)

"Backed by the incomparable Charlie Daniels Band, former Grinderswitch guitarist and singer Larry Howard delivers an uplifting collection of modern-day gospel songs. Some are set to rock, some to swamp boogie, and some are based on the blues. There's even a reggae tune, but the one underlying connector is the lyrical content. These are all songs of Christian faith and the love of Jesus Christ, delivered by one of the South's finest, and a former Capricorn Records stars.
The backing band here is pretty impressive. You may have heard of them. The Charlie Daniels Band? Yep. And they certainly put their collective heart and soul into the music as always.
Also appearing on the CD are former Grinderswitch bandmates, Dru Lombar and Joe Dan Petty, who add a very familiar sound to the beautiful "In His Eyes," featuring Lombar and Howard swapping off lead vocals. It is one of the many high points of the record. Bill Barnes, Steve Barnes, and Jimmy Nalls are all featured on the album, which kicks off with "Boogie Man," a rocking number that features a guest shot from Charlie Daniels on harmony vocals and guitar. The rocker, "Fire Proof," is excellent, as is the reggae laced "You Got to Pray" and the funky slow jam of "Living in Eternity." One of the best cuts on the record -- and mind you, there are no bad cuts -- is "Blessed with the Blues," which takes one of the most unique approaches to Christianity ever recorded. "The River" evokes vivid pictures of the late Toy Caldwell, with a real Marshall Tucker Band country rock sound. American Roots is a true original, filled with Southern rock & blues, while presenting a positive message of faith and hope."-- AMG Review by Michael B. Smith