The Soul Seekers - Reviews - GospelFlava.com

The Soul Seekers

With a bow to the always-vibrant quartet scene, Gospo Centric Records releases the self-titled debut of The Soul Seekers, marking the label’s foray into the traditional quartet sound.

Not that the eight individual members The Soul Seekers are in any way newbies. With names like Warryn Campbell, Gerald Haddon, John “Jubu” Smith, there’s plenty of musical experience to tap into, and then some. Teddy Campbell, Craig Brockman, Eric Seats, Charlie Bereal and Nisan Stewart also comprise the group. As a crew, they pool a vast reserve of songwriting, vocal, production and instrumental talent, having worked with everyone from Mary Mary to Brandy to Whitney Houston to Nelly, and many more.

From the get go, the word is ‘gifted’. Millenial but not contemporary, ‘today’ with roots in yesterday, The Soul Seekers stand on the foundation laid by quartet giants such as The Five Blind Boys of Albama and The Mighty Clouds of Joy, but delivering their own spin to proceedings. With five of the group's members being pastor's sons, they also draw on significant spiritual and scriptural resources.

The live-recorded album (at L.A.’s Greater Emmanuel Temple) opens up with the stylish, up-tempo “I’ll Take Jesus”. Craig Brockman’s sizzling organ sets the pace for the envelope-pushing vocal stream that follows, as The Soul Seekers testify of the all-sufficiency of Jesus Christ. Lead vocalist Teddy Campbell (other vocalists are brother-in-law Warryn Campbell, Gerald Haddon, Nisan Stewart and John Smith) powers the cut.

The Soul Seekers

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"“What Would You Do” asks the unthinkable —”what would you do if the Lord turned his back on you”. While the question is only theoretical (because He clearly states that He will never leave nor foresake us), the song serves to remind of God’s goodness, and our utter reliance on Him. Musically, the relaxed format of the cut serves to emphasize the pensive nature of the issue.

“Another You” is a fine tune, with almost pop sensibilities, which drives home the point that God has made each of us to be who we are. It’s a lesson in self-worth, reliant on scripture, and set to infectious melody.

Paul Porter of The Christianaires, guests on “I’ve Got It”, a comfortable, down tempo, in pocket groove that cries out for anyone to sing along. The Soul Seekers’ backing vocals are as harmony-laden as you could hope for.

On “Make A Way”, Harvey Watkins Jr. of The Canton Spirituals takes the mic. With a lazy backbeat and Smith’s guitar licks up front, Watkins trades vocal lines with the group, telling of God’s ability to bring us out, no matter how severe the situation appears.

“Something Within”, the old Lucie E. Campbell favorite, makes a welcome appearance, as does a new rendition of “You Oughta Been There”, with songwriting help from Percy Bady.

With so much to offer, don’t be surprised to find that The Soul Seekers’ auspicious debut finds it place beyond the normal bounds of quartet circles.

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Producers: The Soul Seekers album release date: April 19, 2005
Gospo Centric Records

— reviewed by Stan North —