From Heart & Soul (Rural Rhythm, 2008)

Rural Rhythm Rickey Wasson has been the front man for The New South for a decade and is one of the best lead singers in the business. With his sophomore release - almost 20 years after his solo debut - he showcases his great voice and guitar playing abilities. He's joined by past and present band mates plus other renowned pickers like Adam Steffey and Randy Kohrs and singers like Sonya and Ben Isaacs.

The picking and vocals are top rate, and the song selection covers a lot of ground. Included are traditional favoritesDark Hollow and Farther Along as well as Merle Haggard's Losin' In Las Vegas and the oft recorded The Shoe Goes On The Other Foot Tonight (Marty Robbins, George Jones, Larry Sparks).

Wasson's faith is expressed in the several gospel numbers with the focal point being his self-penned Touched By The Master's Hand. Wasson was pronounced dead while still in his mother's womb, but his mother persevered in her hope and faith. Years later, doctors gave little hope for Wasson's newborn son, yet they took home a healthy boy. What better story to tell than this?