SPOTLIGHT CD REVIEW: STRENGTH RENEWED- THE ANCHORMEN
SOUTHERN GOSPEL SPOTLIGHT PRESENTS:
CD REVIEW:
STRENGTH RENEWED
THE ANCHORMEN
LABEL: CHAPEL VALLEY, INSPIRE
RELEASE DATE: JULY 2016
MEMBERS: TERRY CARTER (BARITONE), PHILLIP HUGHES (LEAD), WILL LANE (BASS), AND CHRIS JENKINS (TENOR)
SONG LIST:
Walking On
Thank You Lord For Your Blessings
Hand On The Plow
I Heard About A Man
Run On
I’m Ready
Wherever I Am
The Hand Of The Lord
I’m Gonna Run
The Blood Will Never Lose Its Power
THOUGHTS:
Strength Renewed is the perfect title for the latest record form the Anchormen. This exciting new project from one of Southern Gospel’s finest quartets showcases the group’s fresh yet classic sound and renewed energy. This is the first CD to feature new tenor Chris Jenkins who comes to the group from the legendary Kingsmen Quartet. Jenkins is a fantastic addition to the quartet bringing a crystal clear tenor and incredible range. This lineup blends exceptionally well together as evidenced on this recording. Each member gets their chance to shine on great songs including classics “The Blood Will Never Lose Its Power” and “Thank You Lord For Your Blessings.” Bass Singer Will Lane takes the lead on the latter track which showcases his upper range. Lane’s smooth and impressive vocal on this song reminded me of Tim Riley quite a lot. This tender ballad is a great reminder to be thankful for God’s many blessings. Thank God for family, friends and the basic necessities of life. Lane shines on the first verse of the classic “The Blood Will Lose Its Power.” Jenkins is featured on the second verse of this beautiful anthem of praise. He gives me strength from day to day!! His Blood will never lose its power! Lane’s other feature is sure to get you moving. His rhythmic bass is showcased on the upbeat “Run On,” which warns of the sin of this world. You may run on for a long time, but God sees everything you do.
Phillip Hughes is let loose on the country flavored “Hand On The Plow” which reminds us of duty to spread the Word to all people. There is work to be done and I have my hand on the plow. He also takes the lead on the up-tempo song of praise “I’m Gonna Run.” This song simply says “When I see those streets of gold, I’m gonna run.” The joy of the Lord beams from this performance. Hughes delivers a powerful performance on the thought provoking ballad “Wherever I Am.” His soulful tones convey the brilliant lyrics beautifully. The song tells the story of Christ and His sacrifice as well as our response. It simply says: “wherever I go, I will love the least of these with all my heart. Whatever I do, I’ll leave this world with open arms. Wherever I am, I am yours.” What a well crafted lyric!!
Chris Jenkins is featured on “I Heard About A Man,” a mid-tempo ballad which tells of Christ and His transforming power. He came here to save us! One phrase stood out to me in this song: “I had given up all hope ‘til I heard about a man.” What a powerful statement! This serves as a reminder to us all that we must spread the love of Christ. This lost and hurting world is in desperate need for His Love. His performance is simply incredible on this brilliant track. This is one of his best features of his career in my opinion. Jenkins also shines on the second verse of the mid-tempo traditional style track “The Hand Of The Lord.” I’ll hold to His hand! He has is all under control! Jenkins hits several solid high notes on this song showing his range.
Terry Carter’s energetic baritone is featured on the opening upbeat track “Walking On” as well as the up-tempo traditional style “I’m Ready.” He also has several step out lines throughout the record. The latter also showcases the quartet’s excellent blend and harmonies.
FINAL THOUGHTS:
This record truly showcases the passion and talent that audiences have come to expect from the group. Terry Carter prides himself on producing top quality recordings as evidenced by the vast catalog of Anchormen records. This only continues this tradition of quality songs and production. Each member turns in great vocal performances! Jenkins’ performance on “I Heard About A Man” is a standout track as well as Will Lane’s features “Run On” and “Thank You Lord For Your Blessings.” “Wherever I Am” is also a major highlight for me. Phillip Hughes delivers an incredible performance on the song. This CD is definitely among my favorites of the year.
THIS IS MUST BUY FOR FANS OF THE ANCHROMEN OR GOSPEL FANS IN GENERAL.
4.5 OUT OF 5 STARS