Long before the blues came into existence, there was gospel music. If you are looking for a break from the blues, this 67 minute CD explores the power and riches of inspirational and spiritual music as expressed by the human voice. A stunning collection of divas who grew up in the Church (Patti LaBelle, Stephanie Mills, En Vogue, Patti Austin, Shirley Caesar, Denyce Graves, Nnenna Freelon, Dionne Warwick) re-work popular tunes by Ashford & Simpson, the Bee Gees, Stevie Wonder, Burt Bacharach & Leon Russell in a gospel vein. Chaka Khan is the exception since she wrote the song she recorded for this project. Graves and Tena Clark (producer) are most responsible for instituting this undertaking.
Dr. Maya Angelou sets the sacred scene with an opening poem. She exclaims, 'Every time I feel the spirit, I know I am immersed in the essence of church . Church is where I go when I want a certain fulfillment and church is where I don't have to go because it is always with me.' Sweet and loving backing vocals accompany Jennifer Holliday on "The Wonder Of You". She gets you to really ponder the lyrics of a song long associated with Elvis. You won't be able to sit still through the Fire Choir's sanctified rendition of "As" where several members of the 20 person choir share lead vocals. Ann Nesby's fantastic vocals give thanks on "A Song For You".
The five piece backing band performs clarion-like on all numbers. Additional musicians include Greg Philliganes and Billy Preston. These 15 adult-oriented, easy-listening arrangements will not surprise you if you are vaguely familiar with contemporary blues music. This is a great Sunday morning disc or one to listen to anytime you need a spiritual rebirth. A bonus CD-ROM disc is included as part of this 2 CD set. You'll have to purchase Church to find out what is on it.
For more information, contact: www.churchcd.com
Tim Holek Freelance Journalist/Photographer
www.mnsi.net/~thblues
Your purchase through this Amazon.com link helps to support this website.
Simply click on the cover at left to order this CD NOW!
Your purchase through the Amazon.com links at the end of each review, or by simply clicking on this banner to order your products, helps to support this website as well as the featured blues artist.
"This review is copyright © 2003 by Tim Holek, and Blues On Stage at: www.mnblues.com, all rights reserved. Copy, duplication or download prohibited without permission."
Copyright reuse notice: If you would like to reprint or use this review please include the above copyright notice, contained within the quotation marks, PLUS this statement: "Used with permission." Then send an email to Ray at: mnblues@aol.com indicating how you are using the review or the website page address it will be appearing on. Thanks!
You can help support this blues website by making a contribution (click on the banner below for details).
Or mail a donation to: Ray Stiles % Blues On Stage, PO Box 582983, Mpls, MN 55458. Thanks!
Web Design SPECIAL, get your own website for just $50.
Web Hosting & Design:
Web Hosting & Design.
Most affordable web hosting and design services available.
Find out how you can host your current site at Blues On Stage, or how I can help you design your own website!
If you would like your CD reviewed, please send TWO (2) copies, along with promotional material to:
Blues On Stage
PO Box 582983
Minneapolis, MN 55458-2983
E-mail Ray Stiles @ mnblues@aol.com with any questions.
We build websites