Steven Curtis Chapman ‘Deeper Roots’ Review

Steven Curtis Chapman
Deeper Roots: Where The Bluegrass Grows
(SCSEE Music)

After many well-deserved years as CCM music’s poster child, Steven Curtis Chapman returned to his Paducah, Kentucky origins with the acoustic-flavored Deep Roots. Now, six years later, Chapman is back at it again, revisiting revamped classics and favorite hymns alongside family and friends like bluegrass legend Ricky Skaggs and Rascal Flatts’ Gary LeVox on Deeper Roots: Where The Bluegrass Grows.

Opening track “Where The Bluegrass Grows” is a hit right off, featuring guest vocals from Skaggs and showcasing Chapman’s effortless ease with which he segues into the bluegrass genre, picking and grinning with the best of them. “Till The Blue,” featuring a soulful guest performance from LeVox, is another highlight and delivers a warm acoustic backdrop and hope-filled lyrics of encouragement. Longtime fans will enjoy reworked versions of Chapman favorites “Dive” and “Cinderella” while those with southern gospel leanings will enjoy offerings like “Victory In Jesus,” “Great Is Thy Faithfulness,” and “Life Is Like A Mountain Railroad,” which find the artist joined by his father and brother on vocals.

Packed with great musicianship, smooth picking, and warm, friendly vocals alongside familiar songs, Deeper Roots: Where The Bluegrass Grows plays out like a homecoming party for Steven Curtis Chapman.

–Andrew Greenhalgh