ChristLike Remember
This five-some from Philly are notable for more than the unusual composition
of their group: one female with four males is definitely not a
standard amongst Gospel ensembles. Rather, it is the mix of soulful
vibes and quality beats combined with radio-friendly
production that truly characterize this standout
urban album.
ChristLike uses the collective gifts of their combined forces to the maximum, and they certainly
do have plenty to draw from. For example, lead vocalist John Murray has served as musical
director, writer and vocalist for Minister Bruce Parham.
Musically, the group combines elements of jazz, reggae and other contemporary urban sounds to
give them their characteristic flavor. They give up
their praise in a no-holds-barred Holy Ghost
party of bump and bounce that includes cuts such as “Joy” and “Urban
Praise” (with a jammy remix to the latter cut as well). With a splash
of hiphop sounds added to the mix, skate party DJs should glue these
two singles in particular to their sound units.
Switching gears alternatively from fast to slow throughout the
album sometimes distracts from continuity, however the versatility
is appreciated. And as credible as the uptempo cuts are, ChristLike
also comes shining through on the slower ballads.
Swelling chorus with
lush harmonies intertwined with earnest ad-lib vocals mark cuts such as
"Power To Stand" and "Remember". Female lead Robin Yancey-Henderson
lends a refreshing vocal to the reflective “Here And Now”. In fact, her presence throughout
the album makes the ChristLike sound stand apart from the growing numbers of
contemporary male vocal ensembles. Another bonus is the inclusion of ChristLike
Fellowship Chorale as backing
choir on some of the cuts.
These Gospel youngbloods from Philly know how to inject a
heavy groove factor into their material. Gospel radio in their hometown has been quick
on the pick up with this album, giving a signal that it would heed others to do the same.
Producers: John Murray and Tim Johnson, Patrick Henderson
album release date: Spring, 1999 Soul Quest Music Group
—
reviewed by Stan North —
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