Doug Burr's 2003 release "THE SICKLE & THE SHEAVES" is a collection of unique gospel-themed songs that cross over nicely for secular listeners. Songs of joy, triumph, and praise are perfectly packaged in a list of tunes that are timely and artistic. Burr pens the lot and ranges from the old-timey "Ain't Got No Chains" that runs like a Georgia chain-gang lament to the Neil Young-ish "Stranger In This Land." Burr blends traditional sounds with the popular modern Texas music phrasing that makes this disc an excellent buy regardless of your conviction. The track count is twelve, including a bonus track that is Burr at his acoustic artistic best. Burr's talent spans his writing and his vocal work as he pens truly poignant songs and delivers them with grace and accuracy. Get this disc now and you'll be the next Doug Burr fan.