A couple years ago, a quartet of young men that called themselves Crystal River burst onto the scene due to the help of some friends like The Perrys and Kirk Talley. The group was quickly becoming a household name in Southern Gospel music - including signing with Beckie Simmons' new record label BSA World Records (also home to Tribute Quartet). After some personnel changes, Crystal River as a group was left in limbo. The all acappella group ChoZen (Ben Mooney, Tony Churchill, and Randy Gober) was recruited to fill the empty slots and a new Crystal River was born.
This current incarnation of the group has just released its debut release on BSA World Records - Mercy River. Mercy River was produced by Glen Bates and features 10 of Bates' songs (with some help by Glen Ashworth) and one by group member Tony Churchill.
This recording finds Crystal River firmly rooted in Southern Gospel - especially on more traditional sounding cuts like "Faith Takes a Stand," "Hope Is Alive," and "There Is a Hope." The group gets their country sound on on cuts like the opening song "Jesus Wake Up" and "Mercy River" (which could be a big country crossover hit for the guys). "I Stand In Awe" is an inspirational leaning ballad that is currently eating up radio airwaves.
It's easy to see that the guys are still adapting to being a group that sings along with accompaniment as their debut has some small issues with pitch and blend - but not enough to be distracting in the least bit. The album closes with "Here With Me" - an acapella number that shows off why the group specialized in that brand of music. They really shine on this track.
Overall, Mercy River is a great re-introduction to Crystal River. Bates has done a great job producing this record which features some of his most prolific writing to date. The longer this group sings as Crystal River and gets used to singing along with music - the better they will be. I for one can't wait to see what the future holds for this outstanding trio.
Author: Chris D. Unthank
| Author's Website: http://southernspin.com
Written: 06/02/2009
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Category: CD Reviews
Comments: 3
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I just love this group. I have received several e-mails from them. They are Praying for me about my Pain from Back Surgery. I have been so Blessed so many times when I play their song "I Stand in Awe". What harmany they have. Hope every one will request that song if they have a Christion Radio station near your town. You won't be sorry. If they come to a City near you go see them.
These guys are awesome. They have such great testimonies and you really know they love the Lord. They are down to earth and easy to approach. Our family has had the opportunity to personally talk with them two years in a row when they were at Dollywood. They really mean what they sing. You can tell they are genuine. We also enjoyed meeting Tony's parents and great grandmother.
I absolutely adore this group . Fell madly in love with them the first time I heard them ......been pushing them ever since . I can see these boys sitting on Bill Gaither's stage one day .
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