Producer: Buddy Mullins
Label: Independent Release
Website: www.testify.org
Those who enjoy the more progressive end of the Southern Gospel spectrum will really enjoy Testify. I became familiar with their music a couple of years ago and became an instant fan. Their last release, “The Highest Call” was a phenomenal recording that was built around songs that re-itinerated the call that is upon our lives. In keeping with a more thematic feel, this newest release, “Rhythm of Grace” echoes the fact that God’s grace is very much abundant in our lives and this recording takes the group to a new level musically, and I think is the best recording these guys have released in their musical career.
With it’s very eclectic into, the recording makes a very striking first impression with the upbeat title song penned by Buddy Mullins and Rebecca Peck, “RHYTHM OF GRACE” and very effectively sets the stage for this montage of songs about God’s grace…grace shown on the cross, grace in salvation, how the grace of God continually affects us each moment of our lives and how amazing His grace truly is.
The medium tempo “I WILL FOLLOW YOU” features the very capable vocals of Landon Thompson and leads into the tender ballad written by Joel Lindsey and Sue Smith entitled, “STAINED WITH BLOOD”, which features Brent Swanner.
“THAT’S WHY HE CAME” has that “rock opera” feel to it with a bit of an ‘El Paso’ thrown in as well, and is actually my favorite song on the whole CD. The entire salvation message from Isaiah to the 4 Gospels; depicting the birth, death, burial and resurrection of Christ is contained in this lyrically deep power ballad. (Funny thing…I can actually hear David Phelps doing this song!)
Kenneth Swanner is featured on “HE WORE THE THORNS” as well as the soulful Joel Lindsey/Wayne Haun penned tune, “HE’S ALREADY CLIMBED THAT MOUNTAIN”, which was previously recorded by the Perrys a few years ago.
Brent is featured once again on a beautiful song called, “I SEE THE CROSS” before the group turns in a very unique rendition of the quartet classic, “GLORY ROAD” (which also features guest vocalist, Glenn Dustin from Legacy 5). You’ve heard this song done pretty much the same way for over 30 years, and the song starts in vintage fare, but watch out! You’ve never heard it quite like this!
A lyrical thought that has been written about numerous times is found in the song, “THE DEEPER THE VALLEY”, which reminds us that the deeper the valleys that we face, the higher the mountain, while “SET MY FEET ON THE ROCK” (yes, the same song recorded by the Gaither Vocal Band about a dozen years ago) provides a great musical moment while reminding us that in those turbulent times in our lives, His grace is sufficient and He will set our feet on the solid rock to stand, while the final song, made popular by CCM artists, Phillips, Craig & Dean, “YOUR GRACE STILL AMAZES ME” ties in the messages of these songs that God’s grace continually amazes and astounds those who have experienced it and Landon does a tremendous job singing the song.
I am excited about this recording and I absolutely love what I hear. I like to call myself a Progressive Traditionalist, as I love the old school, but find a lot to like about the more progressive style. Testify has a great sound, and this is one the finest recordings released for 2006. It’s progressive and classy, and every bit a 5 star recording.
Personal Favs: RHYTHM OF GRACE; I WILL FOLLOW YOU; STAINED WITH BLOOD; THAT’S WHY HE CAME; GLORY ROAD; YOUR GRACE STILL AMAZES ME
Author: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Written: 04/01/2006
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Category: CD Reviews
Comments: 9
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I got this CD the day it came out and all I can say is, wow! I agree 100%, this is Testify's best CD yet. The only complaint I have about the review is that you probably should have changed the rating system to add a 6th star. If you like the progressive Southern Gospel this CD is for you. If you like traditional Southern Gospel this CD is for you. If you like contemporary gospel this CD is for you. If you like to hear uplifting Christian music that talks about the blood, the resurrection and God's Grace you will defiantly love this CD. It has something for everyone.
This is the best CD I've heard in many, many years! Throughout the entire CD, every song is great! We have two of the CDs and my wife has not taken it out of her car's CD player since she got it. All my kids (ages 12, 12, & 8) love all of Testify's music. I believe "That's Why He Came" is the most powerful, spirit filled song I've heard since The Talley Trio's "His Life For Mine". If you don't have this CD, you need to get it. Actually, you might want to consider getting a couple if you want to listen to it...otherwise you'll have to fight your family members over who gets it.
They have done it again! WOW!!! WHat a great CD. Song after song touches the heart of the believer. I love the new sound; fresh, annointed. Just when I thought it couldn't get any better, “RHYTHM OF GRACE” comes along and blows me out of the water. Thanks guys! If hearing these songs live makes them any better, it's going to be a great concert~
I agree 100% with the other comments that have been left. I have been a Testify fan for many years and go see them quite often if they are anywhere close to my hometown. I have every cd they have and enjoy them all but "Rhythm of Grace" is their best one ever! I listen to it every day while I am cooking and both my boys already know the words to almost every song because they hear it so much! My favorite song has got to be "I see the cross". I love Brent's voice and he does a great job on this song. I recommend this cd to everyone!!
We have had Testify at our church numerous times. This new CD is fabulous! But, everything they do is done well. Tight vocals, impeccable pitch and a clear message of the risen Christ. Buy it, now!
Great CD...fresh NEW sound! Tight harmonies and a nice mix of styles.
The new CD Rhythm of Grace is such a wonderful blessing. Even though I listen to it over and over, it ministers to me even more each time I hear it. I praise the Lord for Testity, and I pray that He will continue to annoint and use them for His glory. Thank you Testify for your dedication and allowing God's Grace to shine through you. I love you all very much
James, Great review ...
I can't wait to hear it. I love these guys and they have become some of our good friends. Their last CD "The Highest Call" plays in my car all the time. I would love to see radio play more of Testify. They have an awesome sound.
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