Producers: Jeff Collins & Three Bridges
Executive Producers: Chris White & Mickey Gamble
Label: Sonlite Records
Website: http://www.threebridges.net
It's only a matter of time before Three Bridges becomes a household name. I've long held the belief that Three Bridges was one of the three best male trios in the industry today (right along side Greater Vision and the Booth Brothers ), because they have managed to do exactly what these two groups have done. Three Bridges remains one of the best live performers on the scene today – mainly because of the group's energetic stage presence and their accessibility to the audience.
Believe is their latest offering on Sonlite Records. The album was produced by popular producer Jeff Collins . The group is also given production credits, which means what you are hearing is Three Bridges. They had a hand in the creative process, something that most groups aren't afforded the opportunity to do.
Believe kicks off with the lead single, “Not the Great I Was”, a real lyrical gem penned by David Patillo . It is a pretty traditional Southern song for a male trio, but once the album kicks into “Waitin' On Jesus”, the second track, we see that this group is more than just your average SG trio. “Waitin' On Jesus” and “Crimson Stream” both have a very bluesy sound, almost reminiscent of traditional black gospel quartets. (“Crimson Stream” was written by Gerald Crabb .) Lead singer Mitchell Kenitzer in particular shines on “Waitin' On Jesus”. His vocals are unlike anyone else in Southern Gospel, and he adds a unique flair to the group (much like Matt McFarland 's entrance into CrossWay did for that group).
Country-legend Billy Walker makes an appearance on “Overflowing with Heavenly Love”. “In the Sky” features the guys at their best – showcasing strong harmonies on a very progressive background. “Making a Way” keeps up the tradition of mixing black gospel influences with their already popular sound – perhaps due to the songwriting talents of the Williams Brothers (who also wrote “Waitin' On Jesus”).
When the group isn't showcasing their energetic vocal talents, they settle into a nice country sound on songs like “Run Back Home to Me” and “At the End of the Road”.
The album closes with a fabulous souled-up version of “ America the Beautiful” – a song that highlights Mitchell's fantastic vocals and the groups amazing harmonies.
The only minor complaint I have about the CD is that there are no show-stopping numbers like “I'm a Soldier” or “Cooling Water”. “Waitin' On Jesus” and “Making a Way” do their best, but really don't quite live up to the standard those two songs set for the group.
That is just minor complaint for an overall exceptional album. As long as the group continues to keep Mitchell Kenitzer in its corner – they will only continue to get more and more popular.
Author: Chris D. Unthank
| Author's Website: http://southernspin.com
Written: 04/30/2005
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Category: ReviewsCD Reviews
Comments: 2
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Great review Chris. Only one problem, you didn't mention the prettiest song on this cd. "The Fountain" written by Steve Cheney. (I actually recorded this tune myself) Steve was also one of the writers of "The Passion Of The Christ". "The Fountain" is really a beautiful song with a great message and I think it would make a great radio tune as well. It sort of has the feel of "Yes I Know" from the GVB several years ago. Anyway, I thought I would mention this but Three Bridges is definitely one the best Christian groups out there. Keep up the good work guys!!!
Three Bridges have consistantly released GREAT music. I'm honored to call them friends. This is an awesome CD guys.
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