

Label: Journey Records
Produced By: Zane King
http://www.theskylineboys.com
Journey records recording artists, the Skyline Boys start off this cheery album with the title cut, "It's Worth the Trip." The group's traditional sound comes shining through, and prepares you for an enjoyable selection of songs by the Boys. Next up is another feel good tune called, "When I walk into Heaven." Though lyrically not one of my favorites, I keep finding myself singing the catchy melody even days after listening to the record. Things take a more serious turn, with " You've Never Been Alone." Being one of the album's strongest offerings, it features group tenor, Matt Felts. I found most of the vocal arranging to be disappointingly predictable, but never the less, performed well.
A lot of group's have trouble finding enough up tempo tunes to balance out the heavy ballads, but not the Skyline Boys! "Stand Children Sing" is another toe tapper. The solo's on this one don't show off perhaps their best singer, but the choruses are tight, and though again, not one of my favorites lyrically, that melody will get ya every time. Big ballad, "Scars and Stripes Forever" written by Zane King is one of the better written songs on the project, however not the best the group has to offer vocally. Even still, I'll bet this song goes over great in concert! Another tune penned by producer Zane King, "Walkin' on the Cross Road," finally accomplishes what I've been looking for. Strong lyrics, strong melody, strong vocals. Great song!
"It Will Be Heaven for Me" follows, featuring baritone Bob Nitz with his Vince Gill like smooth tone. This really set up Matt nicely to deliver an outstanding performance of "Broken Vessel." "There's Water in the Well" is probably right behind "You've Never Been Alone" as far as the strongest writing of the four offerings by Tommy Swindle on the record, and not only was it one of my favorites, but the Skyline Boys really lock in on a tight sound on the track. The project ends with "Mountain of Grace," a solid tune that leaves a good last impression of the Boys with the listener.
Obviously I didn't care for some of the song choices on this record, but overall it was worth the listen. The Skyline Boys have a good sound, and they have a solid foundation to build upon. Group bass singer and owner Dennis Powers lays a nice bed, and lead Rob Nykamp should be credited for much of the group's overall sound. The record had a good flow and was produced well, though I'd like to hear a little more vocal arranging next time.
1. It's Worth the Trip
2. When I Walk Into Heaven
3. You've Never Been Alone
4. Stand Children Sing
5. Scars and Stripes Forever
6. Walkin' on the Cross Road
7. It Will Be Heaven for Me
8. Broken Vessel
9. There's Water in the Well
10. Mountain of Grace
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