Top Christian Albums of the 1980's -- #10

PASSIN' THE FAITH ALONG -- The New Gaither Vocal Band (1983)

Surprised? While there’s a lot to be said for complexity (see #1 and elsewhere on this list), simple pleasures are often the best. The legendary Bill Gaither continued writing great music throughout the decade, and the GVB in various incarnations was his vehicle for recording it. The vocalists are the musicians, with the bare minimum of instrumentation to complement, not smother, their voices, and the songs are crisp, diverse and original. By producing a contemporary sound without compromising his principles, Gaither provides more evidence (as if any was needed) that he's among the best songwriters and producers of the last 50 years. Still enjoyable (if you can find it!), a quarter-century later.