FLASHBACK FRIDAY: CD REVIEW: ON A ROLL- MARK209

SOUTHERN GOSPEL SPOTLIGHT PRESENTS

FLASHBACK FRIDAY CD REVIEW:

ON A ROLL-MARK 209

RELEASE DATE: 2013

LABEL: MUSIC CITY MEDIA GROUP

PRODUCER: JAMIE BRANTLEY

MEMBERS: Nathaniel Justice (Tenor), Jym Howe (Lead), Bryan Hatton (Baritone), Ray Wiconish (Bass)

REVIEW COPY PROVIDED

Song List:

• We’re On A Roll- Woody Wright

• God Fearin’ Family Man- Woody Wright

• That’s What Love Looks Like- David Staton

• Wherever God Is Moving- Sue C. Smith, Lee Black, Kenna Turner West

• Hillbilly Haircut- Woody Wright

• It Took A Man Like That- Tom Botkin, Jimmy Fortune, Kevin Denney

• Are You Ready?- Jim McBride

• It Takes Faith- Kenna Turner West

• It Might As Well Be Me- Ronny Hinson

• Graceland- Karen Harding

• It Ain’t Over ‘Til God Says It’s Over- Tom Botkin

• Have A Good Time- Tom Burress

• Tennessee Orange- Tom Botkin

• Bible Story- Scott Krippayne

THOUGHTS:

Mark209, formerly known as the Mystery Men Quartet, has recently taken the mainstream Southern Gospel Music scene by storm with their unique style and sound. Based on the cover of the record, it is immediately apparent that the listener is in for a treat! Each member shines on this recording. Bass singer Ray Wiconish takes the lead on several songs such as the easy going “Are You Ready?,” the driving “It Might As Well Be Me,” and the tender ballad “That’s What Love Looks Like.” Wiconish has a bass voice similar in tone to that of Richard Sterban, but is still unique. Lead singer Jym Howe has several features but his standout performance is on the tender ballad of hope called “It Ain’t Over ‘Til God Says It’s Over.” This amazing song written by Tom Botkin encourages us as Christians that God is in control! When it seems like death wins or sickness has taken over, God is faithful and has already won! Tenor Nathaniel Justice shines on the country flavored mid tempo track “Graceland” which talks about the joys of living with Christ. We are trading “Heartbreak Hotel” for the beautiful streets of Heaven if we believe in the Lord Jesus Christ! Baritone Bryan James Hatton beautifully delivers the lyric of "Tennessee Orange." This patriotic ballad penned by Tom Botkin reminds us that family, faith, and freedom are more important than your own selfish desires. This is a quartet that is confident in their sound and knows how to have fun as evident in songs such as the groovy “Bible Story,” the driving “Wherever God Is Moving,” and the swinging “Have A Good Time.” Each of these songs showcases the solid group harmonies and proves that this group is here to stay!

I recently discovered this group and was immediately drawn in by their infectious energy and love of God. Their blend of Country and Southern Gospel Music is quite unique and sets them apart from most other groups. The production quality is also of note as the raw tracks and vocals are refreshing. Most groups nowadays can be overproduced, but this project while not polished, is not sloppy, but rather feels more like a live recording.

Give this recording a listen and you will not be disappointed! Mark209’s unique style and sound set them apart from other groups. They continue to gain national attention, produce quality recordings showcasing their great harmonies and are truly “On A Roll!” 4 Stars

For more information on Mark209, visit their website: www.mark209.com

You can download the CD on ITunes and Amazon.