Trials, Troubles, Tribulations

Trials, troubles, tribulations
Such as never been before
When the angels pour upon us
Their vows of dread forevermore

When the fire comes down from Heaven
And the blood shall fill the sea
I'll be carried home by Jesus
There forever with him be

The beasts with horns will come upon you
One with seven, one with ten
They will cry unto the mountain
They'll pray to die but cannot win

The mark must be upon your forehead
These earthly goods you then can buy
Depart from me, I never knew you
You'll hear my blessed Savior cry

This song carries a haunting melody and weight that works when a song of power and authority is needed. The outstanding feature, aside from the ancient-sounding lyrics, is the high harmony — open fifths that feel very old, resolving into a buttery harmony in the chorus. Sing it open and not too fast. Works well with instruments or acapella. If we're going to work together we're going to have to connect with people across political divides. Gospel songs can carry messages that work for conservatives and liberals. Just the fact that you're singing a biblical song might be enough to get someone listening who might not ordinarily hear what you're saying.

I first started singing this with Jeff Lewis during our heavy bluegrass days. Though it's older and edgier than most bluegrass, it fits well into that style too. We heard it on Alan Lomax's "Southern Journey" recordings.

Drop your jaw to open your mouth wide. Try to sing out the top of your head to get that high harmony, rather than straining your vocal cords.