When I first listened to this latest release by the Dove Brothers, I will admit that I wasn’t so sure about it. To my ears, it was living in the shadow of their previous release Life, which I feel was one of the best efforts of their career. This recording basically picks up where Life left off; as the country styling evidenced in Life is brought more to the forefront with Hold On. All I can say is “Move over Possum, here comes the Dove!”
Right out of the gate, the title song, “Hold On”, showcases McCray’s ‘Country Crooner’ side, a side I never knew he had. Anyone who thinks McCray is merely an old school Jake Hess/Glen Payne type singer needs to listen to this song and see that McCray is one of the most versatile singers in the industry.
There are several songs that really lend themselves to the more country mold such as “He’s Gonna Smile on Me” (an old Oak Ridge Boys song from the early 1970s), “A Little Good News” (a gospel re-make of an Ann Murray classic from the mid 1980s) and the McCray penned, “Jesus, He’s Everything to Me”. But those who long for the more standard quartet sounds will definitely enjoy “I’m Gonna Rise, I’m Gonna Fly” and “When I Wake up in the Morning”. The Dove Brothers also went back and put their own spin on several classic gospel songs like “Leaving on my Mind”, “Little David” and “He’s Sending Miracles”, which are all excellently done.
Probably my personal favorite on the recording is the Sandy Knight penned “Back to Egypt”, which I feel could probably do well for them on radio. Its catchy tune and timely message will stay with you long after the music stops.
I think what finally won me over with this recording was seeing them perform the songs live. It put a new spin on these songs and helped me see and hear them differently. The audience sure liked what they heard and they definitely showed their approval.
The Dove Brothers are masters of their craft, and deliver their music with excellence. While some may question their change in musical direction, when the final chapter of the Dove Brothers history is written, it will be told that they are astute businessmen who knew how to keep their music fresh and exciting, while delivering the timeless message of Jesus Christ. Many groups spend their entire careers trying to find their niche; the Dove Brothers not only found it, but they continue to redefine it with every recording.
Author: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Written: 12/01/2009
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Category: CD Reviews
Comments: 1
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I agree that it is a good album.... Personally, for what it's worth.... I would have left the Ann Murray song off as well as the He's Gonna Smile on me..... too vague and not enough "direct - ness" to keep it a "GOSPEL" song.....
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