Front Row Seats (Springhill, 2006)

It's hard not to love the Oak Ridge Boys. They are American music icons with a history dating back to the mid part of the last century. The current foursome - Joe Bonsall, Duane Allen, Richard Sturban and William Lee Golden - have made music together, with the exception of Golden's temporary departure a few years back, for decades.

Who can forget their big hits from the '70s and '80s, including "Elvira," Bobby Sue," "The Y'all Com Back Saloon"?

The new album shows the Oaks are still in great voice. Whether it's a fun, novelty song, "Hard To Be Cool (In A Minivan)," the country-flavored, "Smaller," "Heaven's A Small Town," "Until You Get There" or gospel songs like, "Didn't It Rain" or "Jonah, Job & Moses," it's clear that the Oaks still have a lot to say musically.

Perhaps their radio hit-making days are behind them, but no on can accuse them of mailing it in and living off of their laurels. The Oaks helped set the standard for ensemble singing and harmony singing, and it's evident that they are still the masters. Their new album is a real winner.