Joe Keaton

“I John” is Elvis gospel at its most propulsive.  It’s sweaty—body music animated with the spirit of the Lord.  “Baby, Let’s Play House” may be the Hillbilly Cat’s most lasciviously fun moment; but “I John” is surely the holiest—if by “holy” we mean gospel that omits the softly prayerful, hymnal touch.  I like that.  I like how the King reaches into the upper and lower registers of His voice, almost side by side.  I like the reverb that sounds far less clunky and canned than it does on any of His other gospel records.  I like that He sings excitedly, perhaps even desperately, of a man cornered by angels.  I like that “I John” rocks.