We begin the year with the review of the self titled project by The Voices of Clouds.  This group was previously known as Charlie Wells and The Voices of Clouds.

From their bio we learn that “The Voice of Clouds was organized by Rev. Charlie Wells in 1954 in Panama City, Florida.  The group released their first recording with Song Bird Records in conjunction with Peacock Records.  Later the group went on to record several albums with HSE Records and Champ Records.  One of their biggest sellers was the Album "Someone To Care", on HSE Records.  The group has sung and touched the hearts of people in many cities around the USA and other countries.”

Some of the group’s prior albums/CDs are “Someone To Care,” “I Love The Lord,” “I Heard The Angels Singing,” and “God Is The Answer.” All of these recordings are now on CD. This is an awesome collection of songs. We encourage you to contact the group and purchase all of their CDs. And, sit back and enjoy over 6 hours of good gospel music.

As to the self titled CD, it is a live recording. It was recorded in 2006 at Progressive Church of God In Christ, Rochester New York. The members of the group at the time of the recording were Rev. Charlie Wells, David James, Marvin Parker, Joe James Sr., Moses Long, and Joe James Jr. Rev. Charlie Wells and Joe James Sr. are the lead singers for the group. On this project, there are special guest appearances by Bishop James R. Wright and also The Progressive C.O.G.I.C. Mass Choir.

There are ten (10) tracks on this recording. Most of the songs have been previously recorded by the group.  However, this is the first time you will be able to experience the recordings in a “live” setting.  All of the songs are worthy of your attention.  One of the first things you will notice about the recordings is that all of the songs, except “I Heard The Angels Singing” and “You Will Be Like Me,” are at least 5 minutes long.  Four (4) of the songs are over seven minutes in length and two are over eight (8) minutes long. We point out the length only because on many of the song there is a lengthy prelude (conversation with the congregation) before the group start singing.

Bishop J. R. Wright sings lead on “You Brought Me Lord.”  This is a great song. It is deeply rooted in that traditional gospel quartet style.  In fact, all of the songs are solidly rooted in the traditional gospel quartet style.  Although this group is based in Rochester, New York, you immediately recognize the influence of the South on their musical style and sound. The musicians are exceptional. Although not noted on the CD or in the liner notes, at times you will think that the group is being accompanied by a lap steel guitarist. It would not e a surprise to learn the Campbell Brothers, Aubrey Ghent or Dante Herman.

Other songs that make this a most have CD are “I Heard The Angels Singing” and “I Love The Lord.” “I Heard The Angels Singing” is the title track from one of the group’s previous albums. The song as that “old time” revival feel to it. There is very little instrumentation. You can almost feel the foot stomping in the “old wooden” church. The harmony is great. It will probably be the song that gets the most airplay. In that, it is the shortest song on the project.

“I Love the Lord” is over nine (9) minutes long.  The guys take you to church on this song.  They sound like they are having a good time singing this song.  And the congregation can be heard sharing in the joy being displayed by the group.  The instruments could have been more prominently showcased on this song.  But, you will still enjoy it.  This song incorporates all that you generally see at a quartet gospel concert. For frequent gospel quartet goers, you will immediately recognize the similarities.  In particular, the lead singer encouraging the crowd to participate and get more involved in the service.
 

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