There are few gospel quartet Christmas CDs currently in the marketplace.  There is definitely a void in the industry as it relates to holiday music from gospel quartet singers and groups.  Yes, there are notable exceptions, The Gospel Keynotes’ Christmas with The Keynotes, Go Tell It On The Mountain by The Blind Boys of Alabama, Keith “Wonderboy” Johnson’s Our Gift to You, and the Christmas CDs released by Blackberry Records and MALACO.  But, overall, there have not been a major release of Christmas music by a gospel quartet group in quite some time. And, when there is a release, it is usually a remake of songs that have been recorded over and over.

Therefore, it was a pleasant surprise to learn that there would be a new CD of Christmas music by Luther Barnes.  The CD is fittingly titled Christmas with Luther Barnes.  You are certain to enjoy the 10 songs on this holiday music project.  The title may lead you to believe that this is a solo project by Luther.  Well, it is not.  This CD is a Barnes’ family offering.

The Sunset Jubilaires can be heard contributing significantly to “Let’s Go To Church On Christmas Day” and “Silver Bells.”  The Red Budd Youth Choir can be heard on “Hark The Herald Angels Sing.”  Lisa Barnes sing lead on “Oh Holy Night.”

Cynthia Banes displays her awesome talents on “Hallelujah To The Lamb.”  Luther Barnes, Tevis Harris, and Wanda Morgan call all be heard sharing lead duties on “Christmas Medley (Away In A Manger, Go Tell It On The Mountain).”  This medley should attract a lot of radio angels.  The length of the song may prevent many radio stations from adding it to their rotation.  This will certainly be unfortunate, because it is indeed a great arrangement to two (2) of the most recognizable Christmas songs.  And, Away In A Manger will also remind you of The Cantons.

While this project is an all around winner there are some selections that stand out.  For instance, Luther’s version of “Silent Night” is one of the best re-arrangement of this song.  The vocals on this track can only be described as smooth.  Luther is truly at his best when he sings a ballad.  And, this song showcases that ability, as well as his ability to put a lot of feeling into a very traditional Christmas song.

Luther has given “Jesus, Oh What A Wonderful Child” an arrangement that really brings it into the twenty first century.  This is another song that the radio angels will like.  With this song Luther has incorporated the best of contemporary music with a gospel quartet foundation.  The two (2) remaining songs on this project are “There Is Room For Thee” and “On This Special Day.”

This CD has the potential of becoming, like the Christmas with the Keynotes’ project, another stable during the Christmas holiday among fans of good gospel music.  The selection of songs may have you playing this CD at other times of the year.
 

This latest release from Luther Barnes is an extraordinary collection of quartet material. You will joy this recording more and more every time you listen to it.  You should be able to purchase this outstanding CD at your local record store or by clicking on Christmas With Luther Barnes.  We give Luther Barnes' Christmas with Luther Barnes' a 9 out of 10.  Click on the title to hear “Let’s Go To Church On Christmas Day."

Copyright © 1997 - 2007 Gloryland Gospel Music

Soteria Management and Consultants, LLC

All rights reserved. Do not duplicate or redistribute in any form.

Gloryland Gospel Home