CD REVIEW: REVIVED- THE DIXIE MELODY BOYS
SOUTHERN GOSPEL SPOTLIGHT PRESENTS
CD REVIEW:
REVIVED- THE DIXIE MELODY BOYS
RELEASE DATE: JULY 21, 2015
PRODUCER: JOSH GARNER
EXECUTIVE PRODUCER: ED O’NEAL
MEMBERS: DOUG PITTMAN (TENOR), JOSH GARNER (LEAD), AARON DISHMAN (BARITONE), AND ED O’NEAL (BASS)
SONG LIST:
Wait Upon The Lord
I’m Depending On Jesus
Little Is Much (When God Is In It)
My Burdens Have Rolled Away
The Lord Will Make A Way Somehow
Family Bible
Some Wonderful Day
Hello Mama
Oh What Love
The Old Country Church
THOUGHTS:
The Dixie Melody Boys have been major fixture of Southern Gospel Music for over 50 years. The quartet commonly known as “The Ed O’Neal University” has produced some of Gospel Music’s greatest vocalists including Devin McGlamery, McCray Dove, and Rodney Griffin to name a few. O’Neal’s classic bass singing has been the anchor of the group since 1965 and under his leadership the group has experienced great success. Lead singer Josh Garner joined in 2013 adding his powerful voice to the quartet. Aaron Dishman, who also joined in 2013, brings not only a smooth baritone voice to the group, but his exceptional piano stylings. Rounding out the quartet is the crystal clear tenor voice of Doug Pittman who joined last year. This exciting lineup released a recording of classic Southern Gospel songs back in July entitled Revived. From the opening chords of the quartet standard “Wait Upon The Lord,” to the tender recitation of “The Old Country Church,” this album impressed me immensely.
Ed O’ Neal signature bass voice shines on the convention style “Wait Upon The Lord,” “My Burdens Have Rolled Away,” and the country flavored “Family Bible.” This seasoned veteran still has a great sound and ability to deliver a lyric with heart. His recitation on “The Old Country Church”
Josh Garner’s standout features include the mid-tempo “The Lord Will Make A Way Somehow,” as well as the second verse of “I’m Depending On Jesus.” This song is especially significant in today’s world. We must put our trust in the one who never fails. I’m depending on Jesus to lead me along. I must say that Garner’s voice is incredible! The power and control that he possesses is unbelievable.
Aaron Dishman takes the lead on the classic Squire Parson penned song “Hello Mama” which showcases his warm baritone voice. This talented young vocalist also has step-out lines on the convention song “Oh What Love” which is a fun quartet classic.
Doug Pittman is definitely one of the best young tenors in Southern Gospel today, in my opinion. His incredible performance on “Little Is Much (When God Is In It)” was a major highlight for me on this recording. Pittman also nails his other feature the groovy, upbeat “Some Wonderful Day.”
FINAL THOUGHTS:
THIS IS A MUST BUY FOR FANS OF CLASSIC QUARTET MUSIC AND THE DIXIE MELODY BOYS!!! The production quality, song selection, and vocal performances were fantastic. Definitely one of my favorites of the year!
4.5 out 5 stars!!
Go out and get this CD if you have not already done so!! To purchase, visit: www.dixiemelodyboys.com