It's In My Heart "Live" in Raymond, MS.

For those old school quartet fans try and imagine if you will one recording featuring Rev. Julius Cheeks, Archie Brownlee, Rev. Claude Jeter and Ruth Davis.  Well, if you can even comprehend such a joint effort then you have an idea of what this project by Harvey Watkins Jr. represents for modern day quartet fans.  Not only does this release feature Harvey Watkins Jr. one of the top quartet lead singers in the industry today, but it also features 4 other top lead vocalists in the industry. 

A lengthy review of this project would really be fruitless in that this project is nothing short of a perfect 10. Not only does the varied song selection warrant such a rating but the sheer historical significance of the project is unparalleled. The closest recording to represent such a gathering of quartet greatness was the 1996 Intersound release "Together As One".  For those that don't remember, that project featured the likes of The Williams Brothers, Supreme Angels, and Mighty Clouds of Joy. 

Just for a moment let's take a look at this sophomore solo recording from powerhouse lead vocalist Harvey Watkins Jr.  For 14 charged cuts Harvey Jr. along with his special guests Doug & Melvin Williams, Keith "Wonderboy" Johnson, Paul Porter and Harvey's pastor Rev. M.J. Williams present a variety of new styles and sounds.  Background vocals throughout are handled by the young new homegrown group Purpose and the Spring Hill Christian Center Choir.  In a sense this project really showcases the talents present in Harvey's home church in Raymond, Mississippi. 

Songs of note on this project really begin with the first song "You Brought Us".  This mid-tempo opener hops along with that patented Canton Spiritual feel.  While all of the special guest appearances are great we have to take our hats off to the efforts of Christianaire lead singer Paul Porter.  His songs "Be Careful", and "God Kept Me" represent some of the brightest spots on the project.  If you're looking for that special mid-tempo groove then look no further than Doug & Harvey's duet on "Be More Like You".  This one is definitely in the style of Doug's  hit recording "I Am A Living Testimony". 

If you're ready to have a shoutin' good time then just call up Keith "Wonderboy" Johnson and Harvey on "Everything I Need".  This charged drive song seems at times to even leave Keith and Harvey out of breath trying to keep up. Now if you really want something that reminds you of the Cantons, then check out "Because I Love You". If you close your eyes you might even think you're listening to "Live In Memphis I".  This song has that special "Mississippi Po Boy" kick to it and boy does Harvey kick!!  Lastly, we must mention the studio and "Live" versions of the title cut "It's In My Heart".  This song has hit potential.  In fact, some 5 years down the line you can probably count on this song being a staple in the Canton's repertoire.

As you probably can see this project is well worth the buy. For those that missed it this CD is a perfect 10 all around.  In fact, this historical event is a must have for all that wish to have a complete quartet music collection.  Click HERE to purchase the CD for just $12.59.   Click on the red song title to hear "Because I Love You".