Daniel Amos – Shotgun Angel

Daniel Amos – Shotgun Angel

Released in 1977, Shotgun Angel is the third studio album by pioneering American Christian rock band Daniel Amos. Widely regarded as one of the group's finest early releases, the album marks a significant step forward in both songwriting and musical ambition, blending country rock, folk, progressive rock, and thoughtful lyricism into a distinctive and highly influential recording.

Led by songwriter and vocalist Terry Scott Taylor, Daniel Amos developed a reputation for crafting intelligent, spiritually inspired songs that appealed far beyond the contemporary Christian music scene. Shotgun Angel bridges the band's country-rock beginnings with the more experimental direction they would later become known for, offering rich harmonies, accomplished musicianship, and lyrics exploring faith, hope, and everyday life.

The album opens with the upbeat Days And Nights, followed by the country-tinged Black Gold Fever and the uplifting Praise Song. Father's Arms provides one of the album's most heartfelt moments before Meal and the title track Shotgun Angel complete Side A with a blend of melodic songwriting and reflective themes.

Side B opens with the instrumental Finale: Bereshith Overture, introducing a more progressive feel before Lady Goodbye and The Whistler continue the album's varied musical landscape. He's Gonna Do A Number On You and Better combine catchy melodies with thoughtful lyrics, while Sail Me Away delivers one of the album's most memorable performances. The record closes with Posse In The Sky, an energetic and imaginative finale that perfectly captures Daniel Amos' unique mix of humour, musicianship, and spiritual storytelling.

Now considered a classic of the Jesus Music movement and an important milestone in Christian rock history, Shotgun Angel remains a rewarding listen for fans of thoughtful songwriting, Americana, progressive rock, and vintage 1970s roots music.

Tracklist

Side A

1. Days And Nights
2. Black Gold Fever
3. Praise Song
4. Father's Arms
5. Meal
6. Shotgun Angel

Side B

1. Finale: Bereshith Overture
2. Lady Goodbye
3. The Whistler
4. He's Gonna Do A Number On You
5. Better
6. Sail Me Away
7. Posse In The Sky