I’ll have to say that I’ve not been introduced to these guys from Southwest Virginia until now, but their CD definitely provided a nice introduction. Based out of Gate City, VA, Brothers Forever founding group member Curtis Hagy sings lead, Gary Ballew takes the baritone and Perry Jones has the tenor.
Before diving in the music, first things first. The artwork/design/photography is the first thing that any person sees before they purchase a new CD. The quality of those elements alone (without having heard the music beforehand) can decide whether they purchase the CD or not. Well, Brothers Forever got this part right. They impressed me before I even opened the case with interesting photography, very strong graphic design work (b.creative) and even a marketing sticker to help push/sell the product and inform the purchaser about songs in which to pay special attention. Someone is definitely “doing their homework” here. Other groups (from new all the way to established artists) could definitely benefit from spending more time on these key initial areas - they are important.
Upon popping the CD into my stereo, the CD kicks off with the up-tempo “I Feel A Blessing Coming”. I love the piano lead in (of course, you can’t go wrong with Gordon Mote). While the vocal on the modulation threw me slightly, this is definitely an infectious song that I’m still singing in my head. The added bass singer was a nice addition to this song as well. They keep the momentum going into “That's Good Enough (Gospel Singer Wannabe).” This song not only has a soothing soloist and interesting lyric, but also has a new country feel that’s really nice and some clever background vocal arranging, incorporating a theme from the first cut. Moving to cut #3, it’s time for the Southern Gospel up-tempo, “I Can't Forget The Day”, which is one of their current radio single. I enjoyed how they pulled in the old favorite I Never Shall Forget The Day. The encore definitely works and will be a crowd/concert favorite among traditional southern gospel lovers for sure. They transition into the medium tempo, “Be Alright.” The choruses are reminiscent of the country group Restless Heart, who always had great harmonies and songs. Moving right along into “Whenever I Speak His Name,” they take the listener to a new place with style. The soloist here has great potential, though I wanted to hear more open vowels and placement. Cut #6 leads in with a nice violin and a comforting message of God’s love as things slow down for “More Than I Know.” A medium fast Greater Vision-esqe, “Showers Of Blessing” has the #7 spot. The melody and vibe are definitely memorable, so this will be a song that people have the melody playing over in their heads. The tenor has a really nice voice, but left me wanting his solo to show more heart and not stay so much in his comfort zone. By the time we make it to song 8, we have the cut “It's Better”. I like this song and there are some nice vocal arrangements and alternating parts on the choruses, though the mix could have highlighted the harmonies more out front. Having said that, vocal placement and tuning work against you in certain areas. Song #9 “I Am Him” delivers a nice acoustic message and the mandolin adds a nice texture to the song and compliments the vocalists well. Moving right into “More Than That,” it’s a worshipful song and one that let’s people know that God is much more than we could ever imagine. The orchestrations here are nice, but the vocals sound a bit covered in parts. They finish out their CD with the powerful message of “The Blood Will Never Lose Its Power.” I’ve always loved this song and I think the listeners will also enjoy hearing this beloved favorite with a nice effort from former group bass, Buford Light.
Overall, from original songs, solid arrangements and harmonies, Brothers Forever definitely has strong potential. Hearing various styles shows versatility, is refreshing and keeps the listener engaged and moving throughout the project. It’s also obvious that you had an amazing team of musicians for this project. After hearing the CD, I would enjoy hearing these guys live. Personal favorites would be: “I Feel A Blessing Coming On”, “That’s Good Enough”, “I Can’t Forget The Day”, “It’s Better”, “I Am Him”, “More Than That.” Be sure to pick up this new CD: Brothers Forever “Sheltered” and check out their website at: http://www.brothersforever.net
Author: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Written: 08/15/2008
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Category: CD Reviews
Comments: 2
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Great review BF!
These guys have came a really long way since i met them and sang with them in concert.
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