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  Speak To The Generations The Detroit group's second project for Axiom Records finds them —Lisa Page  Brooks, Leah Page and Lou Ann Stewart— stepping smartly into a twelve-track set that is everything that Witness fans long for. Close harmonies, scripture-laden lyrics and Page Brooks' signature lead vocals are all here, with production from Michael Brooks and Charles "Ollie" Harris.From the start, with "It's Your Victory", Witness captures attention. The melody rides alongside a sprightly clap track, with the encouraging words of the Michael Brooks composition. "Acquire the Fire", with strings and piano effects included amidst the standard rhythm, guitar and keyboard orchestration, features Page Brooks telling of our need for the Holy Ghost's power to be able to live right. Freda Battle writes "It Will Be Alright", making for an unusual moment on a Witness album, since by far most of the group's material is written by Michael Brooks (the group's founder and producer). The song rides with a syncopated beat with Carribean overtones, with Witness unifying things with invididual solo lines and group singing.
Joe Foster's guitar is featured on "No Good Thing", with Witness relying on the words from Psalm 84:10 to express the incredible goodness of God. "Miracle", from the pen of Michael Brooks, is a tender praise and worship song of thanks and anticipation. On "Look To Jesus", Gospel soul crooner Parkes Stewart (who is also the husband of group member Lou Ann Stewart) intros the cut, and also steps into the song midway through, trading lines with the group over a simple rising melodic motif featuring guitar from Justin A. Brooks. The album ends with a remix of the hit from Witness' previous album (Appointed Time), as the rousing "Clap Your Hands (Flashback)" brings in Pierre Huberson (for the Untouchables) to turn the cut right on its edge, with ROCKLYN on rap and guitar work courtesy Tyrone Chase and Katsuomi Goto on bass. This one goes deep into urban territory, with its rock-steady beat and bold head-nod factor. With Speak To The Generations, Witness keeps on going strong and is surely bound to touch more hearts than ever before.
Email This To A Friend Axiom Records — reviewed by Stan North —
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