Special CD REVIEW: SOMETIMES IT TAKES A MOUNTAIN- GAITHER VOCAL BAND (2014)

CD Review:

Sometimes It Takes A Mountain- Gaither Vocal Band

Label: Gaither Music Group

Release Date: October 14, 2014

Track Listing:

1. Jesus Gave Me Water- Lucie Campbell

2. We Are Coming Home At Last- Gloria Gaither, William J. Gaither, Reba Rambo-McGuire, Dony McGuire

3. Sometimes It Takes A Mountain- Mark Mathes, Gloria Gaither

4. Happy Rhythm- Mosie Lister

5. Resurrection- Gloria Gaither, William J. Gaither, Michael W. Smith

6. The Night Before Easter- Donnie Sumner, Dwayne Friend

7. That's When The Angels Rejoice- Larry Bryant

8. Written In Red- Gordon Jensen

9. Let It Start In Me- Gloria Gaither, William J. Gaither, Reba Rambo-McGuire, Dony McGuire

10. When Fear Comes Knocking- Gerald Crabb, Paula Breedlove

11. Peace In The Valley- Thomas Dorsey

12. You Brought Us Out- Gloria Gaither, William J. Gaither, Reba Rambo-McGuire, Dony McGuire

13. Praises- Benjy Gaither, Marshall Hall, Jeff Silvey

14. Heaven Came Down- Traditional

Thoughts:

The GVB has done it again!!! Just when I thought they couldn't top the previous lineup of the quintet, they do just that! This monumental recording is the thirty-fifth in the long standing Gaither tradition of strong songs and powerhouse vocals. These songs say something as Bill Gaither (Founder and longtime Bass vocalist) would assert. Ever since the group debuted the five memeber lineup in 2009, their harmonies have become more intricate and powerful. Hence, the sound has become fuller and more vibrant. This record continues this new found energy and fuller sound. Even with the recent departure of fan favorites Michael English (longtime lead) and Mark Lowry (longtime baritone), the dynamic GVB sound is maintained. On this recording, veterans David Pehlps (Tenor), Wes Hampton (Tenor), and Bill Gaither (Bass) are joined by newcomers Adam Crabb (Lead) and Todd Suttles (Baritone/Bass).Adam Crabb is no stranger to Southern Gospel music as he was a member of his family's successful group the Crabb Family for many years. Crabb brings his soulful style to the title track which addresses the the truth that God is the solution to our problems. He also shines on a groovy tune written by his father Gerald called "When Fear Comes Knocking" which says that faith trumps fear. Todd Suttles is a relatively new face in the world of Southern Gospel music. He was previously a member of the Settles Connection and appeared on the Giving Thanks Gaither Homecoming videos. Suttles adds his energetic and dynamic voice to this new lineup. His incredible range is showcased throughout the record: most notably his booming bass can be heard on the Moise Lister classic "Happy Rhythm", and his smooth baritone is heard on the Gospel standard "Peace In The Valley." Suttles doubles the bass part with Gaither on several tracks adding a fuller bass sound harkening back to the early days of the Vocal Band. Gaither himself is not featured on this project in terms of solos, but still anchors the group's sound with his signature bass harmonies.

Wes Hampton and David Phelps are two of the greatest tenor vocalists to ever grace the Southern Gospel stage in my humble opinion. This record includes many standout performances from each. Hampton takes the lead on the opening track "Jesus Gave Me Water" a song describing the story of Jesus at the well and his living water. His soaring tenor vocals can be heard on the powerful anthem "Let It Start In Me" which asserts our need for God in this world and that the change starts in us. Phelps continues to amaze me personally with his powerful operatic tenor voice which is showcased on the incredible ballad "The Night Before Easter" and the last verse of "Let It Start In Me." The ending of the latter is a perfect example of his unbelievable vocals. Phelps also shines on a peaceful and moving ballad called "Written In Red" which expresses our love for God and His love for us. He is a talented musical arranger as well which can be heard on the rousing "Resurection" and the groovy "Heaven Came Down."

Overall Thoughts:

Moving Message. Powerful, intricate harmonies, Soaring tenors, soulful lead, and booming bass. What more could you ask for in a recording. This record solidifies once again the five member GVB as being one of Gaither's best decisions in his career in my opinion. Each member blends together to form an incredible vocal unit that continues to produce quality recordings. The GVB has been close to my heart for several years now and this record joins the vast catalogue of my favorites.

5 Stars, One of the best of 2014! Hands down!