We begin this year with a review of The Clark Brothers’ I Made It.  Many may not have heard of this group.  Well, it is very likely that once their video begins to air, as it rightfully deserves to be, on gospel music television programs around the country, they will become a household name.  The Clark Brothers’ are from Tuskegee, Alabama.  And although it is not noted on the video, it appears that the video was recorded in Tuskegee. 

First let us introduce the group to you.  The lineup at the time of the recording consisted of Pastor Anthony Clark, Victor Clark, Christopher Clark, Kenny Gipson and Bruce Smith.  The musicians that played on this recording were Michael Williams – Piano; Alex Tucker  - Drums; Rodger Tompkins – Guitar; Rod Sullins – Organ; and Terry Sankey – Bass. 

There are 10 songs on this video.  The Bothers share lead duties throughout the video.  There is a great mixture of ballads, mid-tempo and what may be considered drive songs.  One of the best song on the recording is "Don’t Give Up On Me."  This song will really minister to you.  The track "He’s Alive" has an arrangement that will immediately remind those over thirty years of age of The O’Jays.  These two tracks alone are worth the price of the video.  In addition the Brothers do a song that they recorded in 1982 - "Been To The Mountain Top."  This is also a great song.

The live recording was well attended.  The audience was certainly an integral part of this recording from the beginning to the end.  Because of good lighting you are able to really see the enjoyment on the attendees faces as the join in with The Clark Brothers in this song service.        

The venue appears to be small.  However, it was just the right size for the number of persons attending the services.  The stage is somewhat crowded.  At times, the Brothers appear to not have the room they desire to move around on the stage.  However, they make the best of the situation, and it really does not take anything away from the services.

The quality of the sound is good.  There are slight variations in the recording level to some of the songs.  However, it is not enough to diminish the quality of the video.  There are great camera shots.  There are many close-ups of the members of the group.  There are very clear shots of the audience. 

There are no interviews on this video.  However, there are two (2) added bonuses that make up for the lack of interviews.  First, there is about a two-minute clip of one of the rehearsal sessions.  Secondly, the Brothers give you a picture compilation that you can view without having to first view the concert.  In fact, should you not start the concert immediately upon putting the video in your player, the compilation slide show will automatically begin.  This is a great added feature to this video.

Another added treat is the closing song - "To Close to Heaven."  This ballad provides an excellent song to call all of the attendees to the stage for what was in effect an alter call.  In addition, as the song closes, Sylvester McPherson, who also served as the emcee, gives a very inspiring prayer and benediction. 

This is one video that deserves to be in your collection.  It is on the CE Record label.  Unfortunately, no contact information is provided on the DVD cover or on the video.  We give the video I Made It by The Clark Brothers an 8.5 out of 10.  Click on the picture above to view a clip from the video.***