Gloryland

Gospel

New Beginnings

Taking Quartet Gospel To The Next Level!

This month we take a look at a group from Flint, Michigan – The Shepherds. This group is no stranger to quartet gospel fans. They have been around since 1968.

According to their webpage, “The Shepherds was founded in 1968 by Oliver Edwards, Sr., affectionately known as “Pops." With the help of his son Joey and friends, George Warren and Antwain Kirkland. Pop with his sons, Oliver Jr. and Joey Edwards in 1980 recorded ”I Know Who Jesus Is” and “God Is” in 1981.”  In 1988 they released Hiding Place on the Tyscot label.  In 1995 they released the project Alive and Restored.  In 2000 they released Live In Durham, NC on Worldwide record label. In 2002 they released Trilogy Live in Augusta, GA. In 2007 they released Tribute. Now they are once again positioned to be one of the most sought after groups with their new CD New Beginnings.

New Beginnings is the first release on the group’s very own record label, Strawberry Vinyl Records. Thus, not only are the members musicians, singers, arrangers and songwriters, they are now experiencing the business side of the industry with their own label.

The group’s new CD reflects the fact that there are new personnel in the group. Musician Lonnie Clark was formerly with The Flint Cavaliers. And, Dandre Williams is now the percussionist for the group. The current members of the group are Oliver Edwards, Sr., Joey Edwards, George Warren and Antwan Kirkland. Along with the members, the other musicians for the new CD are Craig Johnson, Carlos Gilbert, Kenny Hampton and Greg Summerville.

There are 14 songs of the new CD.  There is the down home ‘let’s go to church’ "God Can."  Radio Angels should like this particular track. It has awesome bass chords, great drum licks, and an a strong lead singer.  It is sure to have listeners calling to say “play that one again.” And, the same can be said about "You Can’t Stop Me" and "Turn It Over" featuring Rev. Phonzz Brown.

Other songs on the CD are "Make That Change," "I’m Only Here," "God Will Fight My Battles," "Send Us A Blessings," "Crossroads," "Something Inside Of Me," "God Has Not Forgotten," "Can You Forgive," and "I Need You."

"Crossroads" is a very heartfelt ballad featuring Eboni Gipson. Ms. Gispson delivers like a seasoned jazz singer. She has a voice that will have you wanting to hear more. Jean Clark is featured on "I Need You."  This is another song that a smooth jazz feel to it. The background vocals on all of the songs are great, but it seems that the guys took it to another level on I Need You.

Quartet gospel fans always like music with a powerful message.  Well, The Shepherds have many songs on this CD that deliver great message.  One of the best is "God Will Fight My Battles." Joey Edwards and Oliver Edwards, Sr. share lead duties on this one.  Listeners experiencing any problems and happen to be looking for an uplifting song, check out "God Will Fight My Battles."

In addition to the twelve songs mentioned above, there are two bonus Christmas songs on the CD. They are "Away In A Manger" and "Jesus, Wonderful Child."

According to The Shepherds, “We want to present Christ and draw people through his anointing. Our message is music ministry with the word of God blended together to give Him our most excellent praise.”  Well, they have reached their goal with the new release.
 

We give The Shepherds' New Beginnings an 8.5 out of 10.  Click on the title to hear “Send Us A Blessing."

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