Clearly, the Whitstein Brothers (who used the stage name "Whitstine") took inspiration from the Louvin Brothers when they recorded this, their debut album. Like the Louvins, they used electrified instruments and drums.
Despite that, the Whitsteins sound was unique, as was their choice in repertoire. While there are familiar tunes here ("River of Jordan", "Christian Life", "Angels Rejoiced"), the Whitstein Brothers also pulled some deeper cuts from the Louvins' songbook. The exhilarating "Way Up On the Mountain"; the rollicking, technically brilliant "I Can't Say No"; and the high lonesome "I Won't Have to Cross Jordan Alone" should delight listeners and encourage other bands to dig deep into the Louvins' catalog for material.
Even the old familiar tunes get fresh readings. "River of Jordan" benefits from a brisk tempo. "Christian Life" gets a much more convincing reading by the Whitsteins. "Where Will You Build", which will be familiar to bluegrass fans -- both Paul Williams and the Cherryholmes have recorded it -- makes a most welcome appearance here.
With "Sing Gospel Songs of the Louvins", the Whitstein Brothers brought a fresh, new sound to the brother duet, and recorded an album that stands the test of time.
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