SPOTLIGHT CD REVIEW: SPECIAL EDITION- SUNDAY DRIVE

SOUTHERN GOSPEL SPOTLIGHT PRESENTS

CD REVIEW:

SPECIAL EDITION

SUNDAY DRIVE

MEMBERS: JEFF TREECE, MISTY TREECE, DUSTY TREECE

RELEASE DATE: JULY 8, 2016

LABEL: SONLITE RECORDS/ CROSSROADS

PRODUCER: JEFF COLLINS

SONG LIST: (Most songs written by Jeff Treece)

A GOOD SONG

I THANK YOU

IF THERE’S A ROCKING CHAIR IN HEAVEN (written by Kirk Talley)

DON’T FORGET MY SENIOR DISCOUNT

I’LL STAND FOR YOU

I WAS ON YOUR MIND

JUST BELIEVE

I GOT SAVED

11:59

THOUGHTS:

Formed in 1999 as The Jeff Treece Band and comprised of Jeff Treece, his wife Misty and brother Dusty, this exciting trio has found new life in recent years. Sunday Drive has taken church concert circuit by storm as well as RV Parks and Hot Rod Auto shows all over the country. This recording celebrates the 30th anniversary of Sonlite Records by re-recording the first hit radio single for the label. This landmark song “If There’s A Rocking Chair In Heaven” penned by Kirk Talley, is definitely a highlight on this record. Misty is featured on this mid-tempo country ballad which reflects on family, loss, and Heaven. Misty’s smooth, clear tones are featured on every song except “11:59,” and “Don’t Forget My Senior Discount.” The album opens with the jazzy upbeat “A Good Song” which is full of praise to Christ. The country style “I Thank You” reminds us of God’s mercy and grace. This song also features a bar of the Nelons classic “Thanks” which fits well with the message. Jeff Treece adds some comedy with the novelty lyric “Don’t Forget My Senior Discount.” Treece is a clever writer and takes the listeners on the journey of growing older. The mid-tempo proclamation song “I’ll Stand For You” is a tried and true Southern Gospel style tune. Misty delivers another standout performance on the tender ballad “I Was On Your Mind,” which is a declaration of worship and praise. Next, the mid-tempo country style “Just Believe” reminds us of the unfailing love of Christ. He will never leave you or forsake you. Just Believe!!! Hold On!! “I Got Saved” is another pure Southern Gospel song of celebration and praise. Christ is the answer!! I’ve been forgiven by the blood of Christ!! The recording closes with the ballad “11:59” which features Jeff. This thought provoking lyric talks about the second coming of Christ. Shout it out! Christ is the only way to Heaven!! He is our Savior!! He’s coming back soon!! Dr. Charles Stanley voice is heard at the end of the song reinforcing the lyrics.

FINAL THOUGHTS:

Sunday Drive is a group I had not listened to previously, which always excites me as I enjoy discovering new artists to add to my growing catalogue of music. This country style group delivers nine songs ranging from novelty to inspirational to Southern Gospel. Overall, the vocals are solid as well as the production quality. I enjoyed this project though I have some critiques. First, Treece’s novelty song seemed out of place for me personally. The song is well written and funny, but didn’t fit with the overall theme of the album. Also the length of the album was slightly shorter than the usual fare. With only 9 songs on the project, the running time is about 30 minutes which is shorter than usual. I also would have liked to hear more solos from Jeff and Dusty. However, this CD is worth listening to and will lift your spirits.

Rating: 3.5 out of 5

For more information on Sunday Drive, visit www.sundaydriveband.com