For the month of September we take a look at Renewed by Doc McKenzie & The Hi-Lites.  The first thing that caught our attention about this CD was the title.  The word 'renewed' is defined as “to begin something again, or return to doing something.”  Another definition is to “give somebody or something new energy, strength, or enthusiasm. So, what about this group or their new CD that would cause them to title it Renewed?

Well, if you have followed this group, you know 2008 and 2009 have been busy years for them.  The group started 2008 with a new CD, The Answer Is In The Music.  The group toured throughout the year and ended 2008 with a live recording and the first ever Bridge The Gap Tour, between Christmas and New Year.  Two Thousand Nine found the group celebrating their leader’s 60th birthday, signing with a new label, touring every weekend, and taking part in a monthly television broadcast. Also, the group added a new member, Melvin Wilson.

Maybe the title reflects the new energy the group conveys on stage. There concerts are always exciting and those in attendance can "Feel Him Moving" the entire time these guys are on stage.  Or, maybe the title reflects the enthusiasm that the infusion of a new member would have on any group.  Melvin immediately makes his presence known by singing lead on "My Time My Turn."  Or, maybe this CD marks the group renewing their commitment to doing what they have always done, delivered good gospel quartet music.  Or, just maybe it confirms the group’s RENEWED dedication to serve our Lord and Savior and to minister to the world the Good News through gospel music.

Whatever the reason for the title, one thing for sure it is, to date, one of the best gospel music CD released in 2009.  It begins and ends with an A Cappella snippets to “Down The Road.”  In between the snippets are “Feel Him Moving,” “Must Have Been Jesus,” “Down The Road,” “Hill Called Calvary,” “He Saw It All,” a musical “Interlude,” My Time My Turn,” “Stay With Me,” “I Still Got Joy,” “It’s In Your Name,” “Holy Ghost,” and “Feel Him Moving (reprise).”

All of the above songs are worthy of your attention.  Three of note on this project are the remake of “Feel Him Moving,” “Down The Road,” and “He Saw It All.”  On their Hold On CD, this song was a ballad with a powerful arrangement that put the listener in a mediation mood.  On Renewed, this song is an upbeat drive. From the first chord you know this is an entirely different arrangement.  It is not a hard drive song, but it will get your feet and hand moving.  Listen closely as Robert Holland bellows out 'set my soul on fire.'  Speaking of Robert, he sings lead on “Down The Road.” This mid-tempo smoothly moves along with that patented Hi-Lites’ feel.  Robert is an awesome singer in his own rights, and his ability to handle any range with his voice is showcased on this song.  This one will also remind you of many of the great lead gospel singers of yesteryears.

The band’s music director and multitalented arranger is Darryl Henley.  Along with writing the arrangements for many of the songs, and strumming that lead guitar, he also sings background on every track.  Henley's musical influence on this project cannot be overstated.  For instance, notice the updated arrangement to "Holy Ghost."  The group has masterfully given this song a fresh sound without diminishing the message.  What a refreshing arrangement to a song that has been previously recorded by The Hi-Lites, by many gospel quartet groups and other gospel artists. 

The final song we will highlight is “He Saw It All.”  If you're looking for that special ballad from Doc, then look no further than "He Saw It All."  This one is definitely in the style of some of the other great ballads from Doc; such as, "Do It For Me," "Go Rest High," "I Won," just to name a few.  “He Saw It All” tells of the miracles of Jesus opening the ear of the deaf, healing the cripple and loosening the tongue of the mute.  If this song does not minister to you, check yourself.  Also, you might need to have your handkerchief available as you push the replay button.  The song just ends too soon.  Any Radio Angel that does not play this song is really missing a golden opportunity to minister to their listeners.  Don’t take our word for it, just ask the blind man “He Saw It All.”

On the whole Renewed is an outstanding project.  This project is certainly representative of Doc McKenzie & The Hi-Lites' classic sound and style.  It is very tight, both instrumentally and vocally.  The production is one of the best.  You will not be disappointed by adding this CD to your collection.

The project should be available everywhere.  If you have not purchased it, head to your local record store, or click Renewed to purchase it online.  We give Doc McKenzie & The Hi-Lites’ Renewed a 9.5 out of 10.  Click on the title to hear “Feel Him Moving (Reprise)."

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