SPOTLIGHT CD REVIEW: FREEDOM- DAVID PHELPS
SOUTHERN GOSPEL SPOTLIGHT PRESENTS
CD REVIEW
FREEDOM- DAVID PHELPS
Release Date: April 14, 2015
Label: Gaither Music Group/ Spring Hill
Producer: David Phelps and Bill Gaither
Song List (Title, Writer):
I’m Coming Home- David Phelps
Who Do You Say That I Am- David Phelps and Cindy Morgan
Rain- Billy Simon
Ghost Town (Freedom)- David Phelps
Little White Church- David Phelps
Ain’t No Grave- Traditional Spiritual, David Phelps arr.
We Shall Behold Him- Dottie Rambo
What I Need Is You- David Phelps
Holy (Sanctus)- David Phelps
Parable Of The River- Bonnie Keen and Dan Keen
Your Time Will Come- David Phelps
The Lily- David Phelps
Heaven’s Shore- David Phelps
When The Saints God Marching In- David Phelps arr.
Thoughts:
In my opinion, David Phelps is one of the greatest tenor vocalists in the history of Southern Gospel music. I was really looking forward to this recording and it did not disappoint. This record showcases the creativity and musical mastery of David Phelps. Each song is well crafted lyrically and musically with nine of the fourteen songs written by Phelps himself. Phelps also arranged several of them besides those he has written. This epic recording begins with a bang in the driving upbeat “I’m Coming Home” which talks about being at home with Jesus. The powerful anthems continue with the beautiful orchestrations of “Who Do You Say That I Am,” which reflects on the mighty name of our Lord. The next track “Rain” slows it down a bit. This Billy Simon penned song looks at our choice to “stand up strong” in His love or drown in the sorrows of this world. This song really makes you think about your outlook on life and how Jesus loves us so. “Ghost Town (Freedom)” paints a picture of an epic battle between the devil and Christ. This song has an old western feel and emphasizes that Mercy broke the chains and the Devil has no hold over us. Freedom!!! We have freedom in Christ Jesus! Phelps knocks it out of park with an incredible high note at the end of this powerful anthem. Phelps takes the listeners down south for the country flavored “Little White Church” which talks about hearing the Gospel at a little church in a small Texas town. The next track “Ain’t No Grave” is a soulful dirge which features a choir backing Phelps up. This old spiritual is given a new arrangement and talks about the rapture. There ain’t no grave that can hold my body down!!
The next several songs change the tone to a more intimate worship feel beginning with the beautiful Dottie Rambo penned “We Shall Behold Him.” Phelps shines on this masterfully written and orchestrated piece which reflects on the glory of the Lord. It also reflects on what it will be like when we meet Him face to face. This is one of my favorite tracks on the album due not only to the well written lyrics and music, but Phelps’s unbelievable vocals which climax in several of his signature operatic high notes. Oh how I can’t wait to be face to face with my Lord and Savior!! What a beautiful song!! The pensive and worshipful “What I Need Is You” puts into perspective our priorities in life. All I need is Jesus! This song is a brilliantly constructed prayer accompanied by the simple yet beautiful tones of the piano. The following stood out to me: “I’m so tired of being afraid/Sadness knocking on my door/If you can fix this mess I’ve made/ Take me, take me now/ I’m yours.” I pray that all who read this or listen to this record who does not know Christ, to know that the God of all creation loves you and cares for you. Sadness and fear can overwhelm us, but with God on our side, fear and sadness cannot rule over us. Jesus died on the cross to save us from our sin and the mess we’ve made. What a powerful truth and message! “Holy (Sanctus)” is a song of praise to the Lord in both English and Latin showing Phelps’s classical influences.
The next track changes the tone back to a more trumpeting orchestral style. “The Parable Of The River” conveys the message that there is Christ is the source of life giving water. The epic sounds of “Your Time Will Come” remind us of the fleeting things of this world. In an instant, our most well laid plans turn to dust. God is the only true constant. In Him, your Heavenly tomorrows are guaranteed. God has a better plan for you and He will guide along His path for you. You must be willing to give Him control. Once again, Phelps slows it down with the thoughtful lyric on the crucifixion “The Lily.” The next song begins seamlessly after the last and paints a beautiful picture of the journey to “Heaven’s Shore.” The record ends with a bang just as it began. David Phelps offers a brand new arrangement of the classic “When The Saints Go Marching In” which is unique in style.
This is definitely without a doubt one of the best projects of the year so far!! This record showcases the masterful talent of David Phelps, who continues to impress me with each recording. Phelps is a man of many talents: song writing, arranging, producing all of which he did for this project. A truly impressive feat! I gladly give this record 5 stars!!!
For ways to purchase, visit www.gaither.com and www.davidphelps.com
Also, you can purchase it on ITunes and wherever good Christian music is sold!!