The Oak Ridge Boys may not be innovators, but they certainly have roots, which, in country music, usually translates to either gospel or blues. Many know the Boys as a secular vocal group, due to successful singles such as "Y'All Come Back Saloon," "I'll Be True to You," and their catchy mega-hit, "Elvira." However, this ensemble's early material is straight-up, authentic Nashville gospel.
AMERICAN GOSPEL CLASSICS highlights the devotional music of the Oak Ridge Boys like no other collection, with all 20 tracks emphasizing inspirational themes and, of course, the stunning vocal abilities of the boys. On "I Want to See Jesus Most of All," a solo voice carries most of the tune, but at the end of the track, beautiful harmonies suddenly start flooding in. Other selections such as "I'll Live in Glory," "Each Step I Take," and "The Christian Way" are knee-slapping hoe-downs.