All-male quartet the Gaither Vocal Band, winners of 4 Grammys and many other awards, give us only pictures of themselves in the liner notes of "A Cappella," the fact that this is part of the "Gaither Gospel Series" and the lyrics to these beautiful, inspirational songs. Several of these 12 songs are originals, "I Then Shall Live" with words by Gloria Gaither, and "Center of My Joy" and "Gentle Shepherd" with words by Gloria and music by William Gaither. Other favorites are "Delivered From the Hands of Pharoah," "Low Down the Chariot," "When I Survey the Wondrous Cross," "Jesus! What A Friend for Sinners," "He Will Carry You" and Irving Berlin's "God Bless America." Simple, powerful harmonies, heartfelt faith, beautiful words, arrangements and musicÏthis is some of the best Contemporary Christian/Gospel we have heard!

Listen to "Low Down the Chariot" in RealAudio.

Rich and lush. Did we say that yet? Well let's just get it out of the way, shall we. After the wonderful reception of the first all a cappella album by Glad, a follow-up was demanded by fans everywhere. Not only will you hear the popular, rock, and classical elements in all their glory but a distinct jazz element joins the repertoire which is a portent of things to come (A Cappella Gershwin). Just listen to Ed Nalle and Rob Neal's song "Sing It A Cappella" and you'll no doubt think of Take Six. Immediately following is the introduction to "Christ The Lord Is Risen Today," a wonderful classical/jazz hybrid. The whole recording is a marvelous mix of new material and arrangements of historical tradition, Charles Westley, Isac Watts, Matthew Bridges and even Theodulph of Orleans for real ancient history! Don't forget now, rich and lush!

Listen to "Just As I Am" in Real Audio.

"The Solid Rock" starts the recording and is as rich and lush an arrangement as we have heard from the wonderful singers of Glad. Monophonic phrases gradually give way to polyphonic complexity. The voices spread from one note to multi-part harmony. Then we are treated to a gospel/jazz arrangement of "Tell It Like It Is." Because the style was pioneered by Take Six that is our best description of what it sounds like. "Your Love Broke Through" has a touch of percussion added to an arrangement that feels like a ballad. The percussion is marvelously inventive, and almost seems a shame that it's found on only one arrangement, but as a purist, this reviewer is just as glad. All in all, each of the ten songs are different musical views of the gospel field. They vary from the traditional song which builds to cascades of harmonies to jazz with R&B overtones. Once again we are blessed to have Glad in the a cappella field.

Listen to "Tell It Like It Is" in Real Audio.

Lacking sufficient superlatives to merely rave, your trusty reviewer will try to give a feeling of the musical arrangements applied to some well known hymns, amidst a bevy of lesser-knowns. The beginning tune is more than just worthy of attention, it rivets one's attention. The hymn is Edward Shurtleff's "Lead On, O King Eternal." It was written in 1887 when his classmates of his seminary graduating class requested that he compose an inspirational call to spiritual battle. Glad embellishes the resulting hymn with an implication of vocal fanfare in the background, four part harmonies, the use of jazz chording and builds to such a crescendo that it is as inspiring as the composer would have ever wished. That is just the first song! Among the fourteen songs are found "Rock of Ages," "Joyful, Joyful We Adore Thee" and "Fairest Lord Jesus." They provide a rock of familiarity so that our spirits can soar into the lesser known and still be anchored. An additional little bonus are the notes which give brief histories of the songs. Great! Songlist

Listen to "Immortal, Invisible" in Real Audio.

Following their success with "Worship and Praise," the Glad quartet have returned with ten more songs of inspiration in the contemporary Christian mode. As always, the production and arranging has a modern edge (several of the tracks feature rhythm samples), and, as on "God Is My Redeemer," invites comparisons to Take 6, with the multiple part stacked chords and vocal trills. The quieter ballads, such as "Oh God, My God," are elaborate pop, each melodic embellishment ascending ever higher; similarly, "Maker Of My Heart" weaves its progression with surging intensity and upward motion. The intelligently crafted songs of Glad are always performed with compelling sincerity.

Listen to "Maker of My Heart" in Real Audio.

Following their success with "Worship and Praise," the Glad quartet have returned with ten more songs of inspiration in the contemporary Christian mode. As always, the production and arranging has a modern edge (several of the tracks feature rhythm samples), and, as on "God Is My Redeemer," invites comparisons to Take 6, with the multiple part stacked chords and vocal trills. The quieter ballads, such as "Oh God, My God," are elaborate pop, each melodic embellishment ascending ever higher; similarly, "Maker Of My Heart" weaves its progression with surging intensity and upward motion. The intelligently crafted songs of Glad are always performed with compelling sincerity. Songlist

Listen to "May The Glory of The Lord" in Real Audio.

As one of the best-known and best-selling Contemporary Christian groups, the Glad quintet's tone is warm, full and open. With many arrangements by Bob Kauflin, and other gifted scribes such as Dave Maddux, the traditional holiday carol songlist is infused with added spirit. To a certain extent, as on "Joy to The World," the group re-writes the material, melodically and harmonically, so that it's tantamount to a new composition. Whether one approves of these liberties or not, one cannot argue the creativity, expertise and emotion that pervades everything they lay to tape.

Listen to Starlight in Real Audio.

The contemporary Christian group Glad is one of the most consistently popular groups of the genre. This "Collector's Series," drawn from their eight-CD catalog, shows why: they've developed their own readily-identifiable sound (multi-layered, complex, big) and they do it really well. For example, "Doer of Your Word" has the easy familiarity and sing-along refrain of a pop song, but beyond the surface the arrangement and production is simply stunning. Vocal trills, shifts of meter, countermelody upon countermelody utilizing voice as instrument-this is their standard modus operandi. Listening to the tracks over and over, one hears them differently each time, as if studying the brushstrokes of a painting individually. One new track, "Praise To The Lord" by John Rutter, is an added bonus. Songlist

3417 2CDs $19.98

Glad presents the long awaited Voices Of Christmas featuring: "It Came Upon A Midnight Clear", "Angels From The Realms Of Glory", "The First Noel", "Angels We Have Heard On High", "O Little Town Of Bethlehem", "All Praise To You", "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen", "What Child Is This", and "All The World Was Waiting". Glad is regarded as one of the finest vocal ensembles in the a cappella community bringing new and exciting arrangements to songs of Christmas past. This "humbug repellent" will bring joy to your home and create a harmonious atmosphere to all those who hear.

Listen to Go Tell It On The Mountain in Real Audio.

Go Fish, an A Cappella powerhouse of sound, continues to spread the word of God in their newest album made especially to reach out to the younger generations. This CD is sure to be a treat for the whole family as it provides strong moral messages as well as catchy melodies, lush harmonies and a rockin' beat. "Superstar" features 10 unforgetable tracks, some highlights are the up-tempo inspirational tune "Superstar," the spiritually uplifting title, "Lord, I Lift Your Name on High," a fresh, contemporary version of "Jesus Loves me." Also, the educational "Ten Commandment Boogie," and an old favorite that parents are sure to remember and kids are sure to love, "SkinnaMarinkyDinkyDink." The CD ends with a beautiful soothing ballad "Sail Away"...and no, its not the Enya song. If you're looking for fun wholesome family oriented music, check out Go Fish.

Listen to "That A Cappella Sound" in RealAudio.

In their mission to share the word of God with the world through their music, Contemporary Christian , Minnesota-based 3-man group Go Fish have brought us 3 excellent a cappella CDs, "More Than A Story," "Out of Breath" and "Part of the Proof. Some non-vocal percussion, synthesizer, etc. are there, but the message, the voices and the infectious original words and melodies are what stands out. 10 songs: "I've Got the Joy" makes you want to get up and boogie, "The B-I-B-L-E," "Alleluia," the rocking, joyful chorus ("Oh me, oh my") of "Big, Bad Billy," the sweet, inspirational "You Are Mine," "Planes, Phones and Microwaves," the wonderfully arranged "This Little Light of Mine," "Ladybug," "My Very Own Church" and the powerful "I'll Do My Best." Go Fish, their music and their ministry just keep getting better and more popular, and every cut on Splash! is an upbeat winner!

Listen to " Planes, Phones and Microwaves" in Real Audio.

The four young men of Go Fish have a polished, tight and professional sound, and though they are contemporary Christian, with a lyrical emphasis on a message that can't be missed, they have much in common with Rockapella and the Blenders. Indeed, the Blenders' own Darren Rust mixed this CD, which includes half original compositions, as well as holiday perennials such as "Angels We Have Heard On High," "Silent Night," and "Away In The Manger," though, in the case of "Angels," the Go Fish version is a 90's dance-mix. Likewise, "Silent Night" is only recognizable by the words - the rhythm, melody and harmonization has been created anew. "More Than A Story" is a musical dramatization, with a newscaster's voiceover, telling the tale of the birth of Jesus. Includes drum and percussion accompaniment.

Listen to Silent Night in Real Audio.

Halogen is a 5-man Southern Christian Contemporary a cappella group, singing together since 1995, with a sound based on tight harmonies and remarkable vocal percussion. Halogen took a distinctive stylistic step away from groups like Take 6 by taking advantage of both their classical training and the pop, R&B, jazz, modern country, and gospel sounds they grew up with, mixed with Greg McAmis' unique vocal percussion. Halogen performs all styles of music, from spirituals to 50's pop and R&B, but their original songs are their primary strength, from the Southern Gospel-influenced favorite, "One Fine Day," to the quiet, contemplative "I Find Rest," to the romantic, I Corinthians 13-inspired "Love Never Fails." There are 10 originals on "Halogenesis" and one cover, the final tune "Were You There." "I Believe," "We've Come to Worship," "And Jesus Stood," "Fly," "He Will Carry You," "Fishers of Men"—these are excellent, upbeat songs of faith, and they are earning a strong grassroots following for these five talented young men.

Falling from the heights of success as a radio personality, director of two Southern California radio stations and family man, to the drunken depths of despair and rootless dereliction, left Paul Meyers at the bottom. In agonized desperation he asked Jesus Christ for help and that moment in the early 1930s was the beginning of the Haven Of Rest Ministries. With his radio experience Paul created a radio program with a quartet, speaker, pipe organ, vibra harp and some poetry. The Haven Quartet are the descendants of this inspirational beginning. On this recording from 1991, you will hear the variety of harmonies usually associated with the four-square gospel singing traditions but the beautifully balanced voices of the quartet are so well matched that this recording is pleasurably reminiscent of the lush harmonies of Glad.

Listen to "Give Thanks" in Real Audio

The first recording from the 1999 Harmony Sweepstakes winners, who enthralled the audience will their radiant countenances and joyful energy. These young singers from New York, though having performed as a unit for only a few short months, displayed an impressive maturity and sophistication. Their gospel background has been good preparation for the brilliant rainbow of tonalities that characterize their technically ambitious, yet passionate approach. The original compositions were written by the group; they also write their own arrangements. With seven voices, they have a palette to choose from that is deep, intense and brilliant. Definitely influenced by Take 6 (their rendition of 'Bless This House' attests to this), their sound is more urbanized, funkier, immediate, as heard on the vocal percussion driven 'Train.' Lyrically, 'Non-Fiction' espouses themes of salvation and redemption, but songs such as 'Last Days,' and their incredible interpretation of 'Bridge Over Troubled Water' require no affiliation, aside from a love of captivating harmony.

Listen to Sit - Back - Relax Bless This House and Bridge Over Troubled Water in Real Audio:

Bowling Green, KY-based onevoice is 3 Guyer brothers, Derek, Joel and Warren, and Myron Whittlesey. There are no pictures of them, or any information—the focus being on the Christian message and the music. To make this all the more clear, there are 3 readings from the Book of Psalms interspersed among the songs. There are 18 songs, hymns of praise and worship, sung with deep feeling and in beautiful harmony by these four young men. From "How Great Thou Art Medley," "Holy, Holy, Holy" and "Glorify Thy Name" to "I Stand In Awe," "What A Mighty God We Serve Medley" and "Days of Elijah," these inspirational hymns are consistently fine. An impressive, heartfelt first CD from onevoice!

The three Guyer brothers, Derek, Joel and Warren are joined by Myron Whittlesey and guest vocalists Kylene Crabb and cousin Layne Guyer on "In Hope," onevoice's second CD. The Bowling Green, KY-based group's first, the powerful "In Praise and Worship," garnered a lot of attention for its deep feeling, beautiful harmony and strong Christian message, and "In Hope" continues on this bright path, focussing on the Bible's view on death and hope. 25 songs, beginning with "In That Great Getting' Up Morning Medley" and "I Am A Poor Wayfaring Stranger," and continuing into a series of narrations from the Bible about the Resurrection and life after death, "illustrated" by hymns and spirituals like "Sheltered In The Arms Of God," "There Is A Habitation," "Do Lord Medley," "When We All Get To Heaven" and "Beautiful Isle;" and original music based on quotes from the Bible like "I Thessalonians 4:13-18," "Hebrews 4:8-11a" and "Luke 15:11-32." Other interspersed Contemporary Christian songs like Dottie Rambo's "We Shall Behold Him," Vince Gill's "Go Rest High On That Mountain," Ken Young's "Enter In," Twila Paris' "We Shall Assemble" Ken Young's "Son Of Man" and Ray Boltz' "There Stood A Lamb" perfectly illustrate the spoken words. Filled with their trademark smooth, rich harmonies, "In Hope" is another impressive testament of faith from onevoice.

Another fantastic acappella band to come from Minnesota. Must be something in the water! A sextet of young men with incredible voices and a great talent for writing songs that the masses are sure to like. Haunting yet soothing, these songs might cause a few tears to fall with harmonies so intricate and complex, yet they make it sound so natural and easy. From echoing cathedrals, to stormy seas, holy cities, and falling rain, each song takes you to a different place and their voices are the vehicle that take you there! We have faith that you will absolutely enjoy what these young men have to sing!

Every now and then there is a recording of such exciting musical originality that it should transcend the boundaries of a "genre audience." If you love gospel/spiritual music, this is for you. If you love original, wonderful music, this is for you! A beautiful alto, three tenors, baritone and bass voices must have been inspired to create such music. You'll hear a bit of tradition, a bit of techno, a bit of country, a bit of James Brown, and a bit of a Bobby McFerrin sort of sound which all combine to make an excitingly original sound. Some folks sing about joy. These singers are a joy!

2786 CD $14.98

Poor Baker's Dozen is Jeff Zupfer, Tenor, Chris Heng, Bass, Kendal Marsh, Baritone, Jeremiah Gamble, Tenor, David Olson, Tenor and Jon Olson, Alto, and they are a cutting-edge Contemporary Christian group from St. Paul, Minnesota. 'Go Stop Go' is their 3rd CD, and we have been impressed with them since the first! This is all original music, most by Jeremiah but some by Jon and Jeff. All the songs are powerful, but we particularly liked 'The Wind,' 'Send Your Rain,' 'Cry,' 'Get On Board,' and the first cut, 'Listen.' The 12-page liner notes are among the most beautiful and extensive we've seen. Great stuff!

An inspired quartet from the Bahamas creates a wide ranging musical basis for their musical ministry. You have to call them contemporary but you'll find rap, soul, doo-wop, rock 'n roll, island rhythms and vocal elements, and traditional Gospel. Just when you say to yourself, "that sounds like Acappella," you have to revise that because the next tune may have such Caribbean vocal percussion you could swear that Vocal Sampling had sat in on the cut. In the medley of traditional Gospel tunes you'll be reminded of the Pindar family. In short, this is a unique new group which is a ministry but should also inspire those who love world music.

Famous 1991 release by Derric Johnson, esteemed director of the Voices of Liberty. Many of the arrangements are also his, and can be recognized by their dramatic codas and lofty soprano range. There are many familiar carols, such as "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen," "O Come All Ye Faithful" and "Little Drummer Boy," just to name a few - 26 tracks in all. With that kind of variety, there is something for everyone: "Sweet Little Jesus Boy," a spiritual; "Calypso Noel," with that island rhythm; "Pat-A-Pan," in the French classical vein. "Gesu Bambino" is one of the prettiest songs, a distinctive melody, coupled with an easy waltz tempo.

Listen to "Do You Hear What I Hear" or "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen"

From the first reverberant sound of "Lead Kindly Light," there is no doubt why Reprise was named the 2001 International Collegiate Barbershop Champions- they know their stuff! With Reprise's busy schedule, including a tour with the Brigham Young Universi1ty Singers to Africa, they have made quite a name for themselves. Finally we get a taste of their original intent of forming their quartet, sharing their love for sacred music with the masses. Each arrangement is beautifully crafted, many written by members of the group or by faculty of BYU, to fit their specific voices. Each song speaks to not only someone who loves sacred hymns, but also to those who appreciate the dissonant sound of gorgeous barbershop singing. Some favorites include "Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing," "Praise the Lord, the Almighty," and "The Lords Prayer."

Listen to Alleluia in Real Audio.

Facile Contemporary Christian pop, turned out with absolute precision and sincerity. Occupying a niche somewhere between Acappella and Go Fish, this male quartet shares the same knack for constructing solid melodies and flowing progressions. "You Are There" and "Quiet, Quiet" are reflective ballads, whereas "The Way, The Truth, The Life" simmers along with a slapped vocal bass and subtle fingersnaps; many of the songs have vocal percussion, but it's low profile. The arrangements are detailed and complex, creating a richly dimensional and spacious feeling. The group's intonation and timing, which must be innately mastered for these challenging arrangements to work, is just that.

Listen to "The Way, The Truth, The Life" in Real Audio.

Seven-track EP, released in 1999. Simple ballads, such as the title track (also the group's name, must be the theme) and "Amazing Grace" set a reverent tone of obeisance. The percussive "Kum-Bah-Yah," at under a minute in length, is less a song than an interlude, but it and "Obey Him" show the quartet in light rock mode. Skillfully produced and arranged, their sound is full and reverberant, but allows enough room (and silence) for the songs to breathe. Songlist

2205 CD $9.98

"The Difference" is Gresham, Oregon-based Rescue's 4th CD, and their best yet. One major difference is the introduction of a fifth male voice, bass/vocal Percussion expert Tim Storms, who has added tremendous depth to Rescue's all a cappella sound. What has returned is Rescue's powerful original material and arrangements--some of the strongest lyrics about their personal commitment to and love for Jesus we've heard. 10 songs: "So Excited," the title tune, "When the Chariot Comes" and "Come As You Are"–our two favorites, "From the Beginning," the deeply personal "Darkest Hour," "Whatever is True," "I Choose You," "So Subtly" and "The Lord's Prayer." A full, rich, soulful sound, perfect intonation, top-drawer arranging, lyrics that are pure poetry - it all makes "The Difference" one of the best Contemporary Christian CDs we've heard. Recommended.

Listen to "When the Chariot Comes" in Real Audio.

From Nebraska and the reflective quietness of the center of the country has emerged a young quintet of Christian creators whom we will place in the exalted company of Glad, Acappella and the Haven Quartet.The rich harmonic overtones of the five male voices carry a similar message by an equally beautiful means. All the songs are either originals written by Todd Boesiger or arranged by his brother Wayne (who also wrote one of the originals). Over half of the songs are quietly reflective, which allows them to become a showcase for the grand harmonies. The others approach a sound similar to the rock groups for whom the vocals were primary, groups like Yes. There is one song on which Todd does a wonderful vocal percussion track and one on which he accompanies himself on piano. Be sure not to miss the moving arrangement of "The Lords Prayer." Songlist

3234 CD $14.98

"Sweet Sweet Spirit" is one of the first recordings, from 1990, by male Contemporary Christian quartet Sweet Deliverance, issued by their own company, Sweet Deliverance Ministries. Later albums were recorded with Keith Lancaster's Acappella Company. The group is now a sextet based in the San Francisco bay area, which received a very strong ovation from the audience at the 2008 Harmony Sweeps Bay Area Regional, where they placed second. But "Sweet Sweet Spirit," although a wonderfully harmonic collection of 10 songs, gives us very little information on the liner notes or the group's website, about who wrote and compose the songs, for instance. As the group is known for its beautiful group-written and composed material, we will assume that some of these songs are originals, but there are many very nice covers here also: Elisha Hoffman's "Are You Washed In The Blood," Randy Simpson's "Had It Not Been," the Gospel standard "I've Been Changed," "Swing Down Sweet Chariot," the traditional hymn "When The Roll is Called Up Yonder," Goodman and Davis' "Wouldn't Take Nothin' for My Journey," and Doris Akers' title tune. Thus, the tunes "This Man" and "Just A Little While" might be written by group members such as Bob Allsup and Kevin Percival. But the bottom line is, "Sweet Sweet Spirit" is a beautiful, heartfelt early collection by a group that has since released 7 excellent albums and grown in their ministry to join the elite Contemporary Christian groups, and become one of our personal favorites!

"Take His Hand" is more good stuff from this sweet-harmonizing male a cappella quartet, part of the ministry of Keith Lancaster's amazing, prolific Acappella Company. These 10 songs are all originals written and composed by group members. Bob Allsup contributes the very nice title tune, "Read the Writings," "Don't Hesitate" and "Talk to Me." Kevin Percival writes the foot-tapping "Phillip's Song," "Is it Me Lord," "Walking the Way," "Simon's Lament" and "Hear Our Prayer," and Gary Ferguson gives us "The Man On The Mountain." These are all wonderfully creative, thought-provoking songs that illumine and enrich the Christian experience. Beautifully sung and inspirational!

Another winner from Sweet Deliverance! What we especially like about this sweet-harmonizing Contemporary Christian group is the fact that they write, compose and arrange almost all of their tunes. These 12 songs, for instance, feature the thought-provoking "Defending Your Life" by Bob Allsup and Gary Ferguson, "Praisin' the Lord" and "Let It Flow" by Allsup and Russ Wooten, "Jesus is Trying to Tell You Something," "I Gotta Feeling" and "Only Son" are by Allsup individually. Kevin Percival writes "He Shows Me Everything," "You'll Save His Name," and "Useless Hammer;" and Russ Wooten writes "Back to the Bible." Upbeat, inspirational, highly creative stuff here—tap your feel to a joyous song like "I Gotta Feelin'," then be touched by the deep faith found in "You'll Say His Name." "Let It Flow" is a winner from beginning to end.

The musical ministry of Keith Lancaster's Acappella Company continues with the Contemporary Christian male a cappella quartet Sweet Deliverance. Included in our favorites of these 10 songs are originals by group members Bob Allsup, "I'm Here to Tell You," "No Condemnation," "You Need Love;" and with Russ Wooten "Only You are God" and "Move Over," and with Gary Ferguson, "Defending Your Life." Kevin Percival writes and composes the lovely "Father Please," and "He Made His Own Mountain." One other favorite we haven't heard is Steven Chapman and Geoff Moore's thought-provoking "Home Run." Very good new material, beautifully sung by talented Sweet Deliverance!

From the first strains of the opening cut, "When I Lift Up My Head," we know that this Kansas-based all-male Christian Barbershop quartet is something very special. 10 beautifully-crafted, inspirational songs, from "Sabbath Prayer," the touching "Joseph's Song," "Great Getting' Up Mornin'/Good News Medley," "Let There Be Peace On Earth" (sung with Sweet Adelines group "Zing"), and "Sweet Hour of Prayer" up to the final cut "May There Be Peace On Earth This Christmas." "Rejoice" is a feel-good, deeply spiritual winner for soulful 12th Street Rag.

Join 2 Sing is a vocal a cappella collection by Jeremiah Savage and Nathanael Vossler. By dubbing layers of voice, they have created a professional arrangement of rich chords and blended harmonies in each song. Join 2 Sing is the first CD released by 2Praise. It began as an experiment with recording and dubbing vocals, but quickly evolved into a more ambitious project, due to the interest and encouragement of those who listened. This excellent CD features many original songs as well as re-arranged hymns that the whole family can enjoy.

Listen to "Child Of The Great I Am" in Real Audio.

Not just a cappella fans but the whole musical world perked up their ears when six young singers transformed the gospel world with their jazz arrangements. The beautiful harmonies and sophisticated arrangements immediately set a standard which has been endlessly copied ever since. Within a single song can frequently be found elements of jazz, soul, rock and R&B on a gospel base. It is no wonder that these singers were tapped to be the winners of two Grammy Awards for their first recording! It is a must for any a cappella collection! Remember this was 1988 and they set the standard by which other great harmony groups such as Boyz II Men were measured and continue to be so judged.

Listen to "A Quiet Place" and He Never Sleeps in Real Audio.

Well it was inevitable that any group as talented as Take Six would constantly expand their horizons. "Join The Band" features electronically synthesized orchestration with drum machines and the occasional saxophone in beautiful arrangements. To satisfy the ear of the a cappella listener there is "My Friend" sung with Ray Charles (yes, The Ray Charles), and two more, including the poignantly beautiful "Lullaby". Even if you consider yourself an a cappella purist and feel that instruments tend to obscure the goal of perfect harmony, as this reviewer does, this recording transcends that petty perspective and is a must for any collection. Songlist

3104 CD $11.98

Unidivided is a Southern California a cappella male sextet first formed in the spring of 2001, whose wide range of musical influences include Latin, Gospel, Contemporary Christian, Reggae, Pop, Jazz, R&B and Rock. We first were blown away by the group's distinctive style at the 2003 National Finals, where their arrangement of "Amazing Grace" drew a huge ovation from the audience. Their recent accomplishments include 2 CARA award nominations and another win at the 2005 LA Sweeps Regional, bringing them to San Rafael for the 2005 Finals. "From The Soul" is basically a Gospel CD, but it begins with the showy, funky "Jamappella," with fake horns, classical samples and a pure, sweet whistled melody line as powerful as that in any spaghetti western. "Lord I Lift Your Name On High" is a joyous reggae gospel tune that had us boogying in the aisles. "When the Roll Is Called Up Yonder" would hardly be recognized by its composer, with vocal percussion, "trumpet" solo and funky arrangement that turn the song into a celebratory romp. "What a Friend We Have in Jesus" appears twice, first as a jazzy, bluenote harmonic feast, and at the end of the CD with added vocal percussion. "I Wanna Change," "Nao Ha Deus Tao Grande Como Tu," "Amazing Grace," "Es Jesus" and "What's Going On" complete the songlist. A surprising, upbeat debut CD from one of the most dynamic and innovative Contemporary Christian groups we've heard!

The Vocal Union is back with their second recording. Because the 1999 group's line-up has only one member still singing with them who is on this recording (Gary Miller), we'll take the time to mention their names. Along with Gary are Keith Lancaster, Gary Moyers, Gary Miller, John Laws, Roy Hawkins, Darin Cochran, Robert Orr and Paul Kennamer Jr. As in the first Vocal Union recording the group sticks close to its Southern Gospel roots, using close harmony and traditional "old time" singing. Eight voices give the music its choral fullness, rather than overdubbing or studio techniques. In fact, it isn't until the last song that Keith Lancaster breaks down and adds just a bit of his "sound" to the mix. By no means does this mean the songs are sedate. Though four square is in evidence, there are touches of doo-wop sneaking in occasionally, along with a bluegrass element. Songlist

3231 CD $14.98

There has never been so prolific a musical ministry as the many branches of the tree which Keith Lancaster planted with the creation of the Acappella Company. in this third grouping of voices and spirits which comprise The Vocal Union, only Gary Miller is the constant, having participated in the creation of all three recordings. His presence on this one is ubiquitous as a writer of music and lyrics, in engineering, and doing the final mix. The rest of the vocal line-up is Bruce Coleson, Allen Krehbiel, Steve Camping, Brian Wiersma, Michael Forehand, Ryan Thomas, with additional vocals by Rob Williams. The recording is Christian a cappella in all its contemporary upbeat manifestations. There are jazz riffs, doo-wop and the sound which seems to be a hallmark of the Acappella Company, strong downbeats, sweet complex harmonies, and rich multi layered production. There is even a song which is perfect for jitterbugging, "Wish I'd Seen It." The youthful exuberance of the singers who join Gary is expressed in a joyous, toe tapping production with just enough sweet solemnity that you don't get totally lost in the music to the detriment of the message. It must be said that bearing witness musically is one of the most attractive forms of ministry to be found. Songlist

2266 CD $14.98

Acappella Ministries of Paris, TN is happy to present the seven man, all-vocal contemporary Southern Gospel ensemble, The Vocal Union. With their combination of close harmonies, soaring tenor, earth-moving bass and traditional gospel treatments of classic songs, as well as unbelievable original material, The VU has brought audiences to their feet in Tulsa, Nashville, Cincinnati, and everywhere else they've been...Texas to Ohio to Alabama. Since 1995 the group has released 4 excellent CDs, and "Once Upon A Tree" won the 2001 CASA Religious Album of the Year. 10 songs: "W e Shall Wear A Crown," the heartstring-tugging originals "I've Never Been This Homesick Before," "Home Where I Belong," and "Brother Taylor," "God Told Nicodemus," the inspirational originals "Born Again" and "Fill My Cup Lord," "This Old House/Your First Day In Heaven," and the originals "Sweet Beulah Land" and "Is That The Old Ship Of Zion." The Union's years of singing and recording experience, rich Southern Gospel heritage, enthusiasm and deep spiritual feeling make "A Cappella" another classic winner!

Seven-man Southern Gospel ensemble The Vocal Union is the third offspring of Paris, TN's Acappella Ministries; the first being the A Cappella Company, created by Keith Lancaster, who is Executive Producer of "All Around Me." From "Get Ready," the first song by these talented, spiritual men, we feel the power of their music and their ministry. This is the best of Contemporary Christian a cappella: strong, innovative vocal percussion, soaring Rockapella-like backup vocals, rich, deep bass harmonies, strong original lyrics, music and arrangements—it's easy to see how "Once Upon A Tree" won the 2001 CASA Religious Album of the Year. It's hard to pick favorites from these 12, because there's not a weak cut on the CD. "Livin Love," "I Wanna Love You," "We've Got This Groove" (they do, and we can feel it!), "Heaven's Irony," "Rise and Walk,' "To See Jesus," "Do You Believe," "This Is Love" and the final cut, "What Heavenly Music." "All Around Me" is VU's 5th CD, and it is another finely-crafted, joyous winner.

With a rich blend of contemporary and barbershop influences, Voice Male brings us "Hims," a collection of 10 soothing ballads, primarily sacred in nature. The crisp sounding harmonies and flowing melodies of each song showcase the talent and dynamic range of each singer and the group as a whole. "The Prayer of the Children," is a warm and powerful display of spiritually uplifting music. The harmonies of "The Lord's Prayer" are intricate and tranquil. An additional treat is Kirby Shawís arrangement of "The Star Spangled Banner," as they present their patriotism through their vibrant sound. An even bigger surprise is the added beautiful voice of a female vocalist, Jill Bearden, in "A Child's Prayer."

Listen to The Lord's Prayer in Real Audio

"What a Friend" features a selection of hymns and gospel songs that come directly out of the hymn books that have been central in the worship experience of congregations for generations. The five young men of Virginia-based Voice of Praise bring us these timeless songs, fresh and newly-arranged and sung in their distinctive male voice harmony. 14 songs, "Rejoice, All Peoples," "Jesus, Thou Joy of Loving Hearts," "Jesus, Keep Me Near The Cross," "In The Rifted Rock," "Lord Jesus, Think On Me"… we haven't heard many of these songs, but they are nonetheless familiar. Others, like "Breathe On Me, Breath of God," "What A Friend We Have In Jesus" and "Crown Him With Many Crowns," we have heard and sung, but we hear them with new ears. This is the seventh CD by Voice of Praise, and, as all the others, it is heartfelt, beautifully sung and lovely!