From The Heartland is an appropriate moniker for a group that plays in Oklahoma, Kansas and Iowa. They follow their first album, "One Little Kiss," with "Lift Me A Little Higher," an effervescent showcase of their songwriting, instrumental and vocal skills. With the exception of two spirited instrumentals ("Ken-Caid" and "Old Joe"), they raise their voices on high (and low) in the Spirit of God.

The band includes Carl Brown (banjo, Dobro), Freddie Base (guitar), Kenny Terral (mandolin), Mary Mayhew (fiddle), and Janis Lindsey (bass). All hailing from the Sooner State (Oklahoma), Lindsey, Terral and Brown are the band's songsmiths. Their messages are direct and honest in praise of the Lord, and the band's shortcomings don't dampen our enthusiasm. Kenny Terral's low bass voice reverently assumes a devout tone on "Why Are You Waiting," and in "Talking To The Lord," he sings in a call-and-response style to Janis Lindsey's pleasant vocal presence. 

From The Heartland's members have years of experience playing regionally in groups such as the The Dixie Ramblers, Larry Ford Bluegrass Band, and Freddie Base and Highway 37 Boys. This album carries dedications to two family members, Kassandara Marie Lindsey and Joe Noel. A banjo-player and guitarist, Joe was the inspiration for Carl Brown's instrumental "Old Joe." Kassandra was taken by angels in December, 2004 at age eighteen as the result of a tragic car accident.

Janis Lindsey admits that life can throw us some sad curves. By writing and singing gospel music, she thanks the Lord for helping her and her family heal from their wounds of grief and sorrow. All songson teh 37-minute album incude: 1. Something About a Sunday, 2. Ken-caid, 3. He's Living in You, 4. Lift Me a Little Higher, 5. Why Are You Waiting, 6. Dust On the Land, 7. Oh' What a Glorious Day, 8. Old Joe, 9. Angel Wings, 10. For the Love of God, 11. Talking to the Lord, 12. My Eyes Are Open

From The Heartland is not trying to win Grammy Awards. Rather, their music's central premise and vitality come directly from the heart as much as from America's and bluegrass music's heartland. The band's caring and compassionate attitude is their strength, and we hear that amply conveyed in their music. (Joe Ross)