This month’s review takes us back to a project that was released in 1998. It also represents a solid video by a group that one would probably consider, at that time, the new generation of gospel quartet singers.  The Christianaires are from Sontag, Mississippi.  This group came on the scene with a bang.  And, the video Standing Room Only Live In Huntsville, AL was their first vide recording.  It was recorded at Van Braun Civic Center, Huntsville, AL on June 28, 1998.

The video begins with the guys standing on stage which rises from below.  The group immediately moves into "Grace Brought Me Through."  It did not take much for the packed-house to join the guys in setting the tempo for an outstanding evening of gospel music.

Charles Porter took over lead duty on "Angels."  From there, the guys ministered for about an hour will singing "You’ve Been So Good," "Saints Hold On," "Look Around (Miracle)," and "Ain’t No Way I Can Lose."

After a wardrobe change the guys were back with "Two Wings," "He Will Come," "Things I Do," "Paul’s Testimony/God Stepped In On Time," and "Everything’s Gonna Be Alright."

The performance of all of the songs is powerful.  Paul is at his best.  And, Charles shows that he is there to take the group to another level.  The other members of the group for this recording were Tyrone Porter, Ronald Brown and George Carter.

There are many close-ups of the members of the group. You can actually see the joy on their faces as they sing, and sing, and sing.  There are also great shots of the audience. This is another ‘jewel’ of the video.  The audience is an integral part of the recording.  And, you are never left in the dark wonder if members of the congregation were enjoying themselves.

The quality of the sound is superb. No highs and no lows. The recording level is consistent throughout the video. The lighting is also consistent throughout the video.

The stage is huge. Therefore, the guys had plenty of room to minister.  This also allowed the musician to be in the background to the point that their presence does not detract from the singers. However, being able to see the musicians and the singers interact also adds another dimension to the project.

There are interviews with the guys throughout the video.  Paul tells how much he enjoys ministering to others.  He makes in clear that the objective of the group is to ‘minister’ to others.  For The Christianaires, it is not just about singing, but to try to leave a ‘Word’ with those attending any of their concerts.  From the interviews you learn when George joined the group.  You also find out how the group got its name. And, you find out which member actually sang R & B before joining the group.  The interviews amount to a brief history lesson about the group.

This project is nothing but good ole fashion traditional gospel quartet music.  For also two (2) hours you get to really enjoy a gospel quartet concert with The Christianaires.  This is another one of those videos that capture the fullness of great gospel quartet singing.  It may be hard to find, but this is one that you definitely want to have in your collection. 

This is another video that is priceless.  It is an outstanding video.  We give The Christianaires' "Standing Room Only Live In Huntsville, AL a 10 out of 10.