One of the treasures in gospel music is a video of The Fantastic Violinaires.  It does not matter when it was recorded or what name the group used, if you are able to locate a video of the Violinaires hold on to it.  It is definitely a worthwhile investment.  When the group was organized the name chosen was The Violinaires.  The Violinaires, was formed in Detroit, Michigan in 1952. 

The originally members were Isaiah “Lil Shot” Jones, Wilson DeShields and Leo Coney.  The group has gone through several name changes – The Fantastic Violinaires, The Fantastic Violinaires featuring Robert Blair, Robert Blair & The Violinaires, Robert Blair and The Fantastic Violinaires.  There have been many personnel changes.  One thing, however, has remain consistent – the melodic sound of some of the best, if not the best, falsettos singers that represent the signature style that is unique to The Fantastic Violinaires. 

In 1999, they recorded the video that is the subject of this review.  The recording occurred at Timberlake Christian Faith Center, Creedmoor, North Carolina.  The title reads Robert Blair and The Fantastic Violinaires “The Fantastic Violinaires.” This is probably the last video by the group that includes a vibrant Robert Blair.  Danny Walker (who is now a Pastor), Dwight (Tito) Arthur, and Robert Arrington are some of the other group members on this video. 

The ninety (90) minutes video begins with “Children, Are You Ready.”  The other songs on the video are “I Can’t Refuse,” “Three Pictures,” “Dr. Jesus,” “I Got So Much To Shout About,” “Praise Him,” “Stand By Me,” and “Where He Leads Me.”

The production on this project is great.  The sanctuary is a great place for the recording.  The stage was definitely large enough for all of the members of the group. 

The live recording was well attended and the audience was certainly an integral part of this recording from the beginning to the end.  And the guys did not disappoint the congregation.  They were awesome on very song.  Because of good lighting you are able to really see the enjoyment on the attendees’ faces as they sang along with Danny and the guys.         

The quality of the sound is good.  There are no variations in the recording level of the songs.  The lighting is outstanding.  As a result of good lighting, there are great camera shots.  There are many close-ups of the members of the group.  There are very clear shots of the audience. 

If you are looking for a good video that captures the essence of The Fantastic Violinaires, then you will want to add this video to your collection.  You get a full song service, ninety minutes of the best of The Fantastic Violinaires.  This video definitely deserves to be in your collection.

If you like good hard hitting gospel quartet music than you must find this video.  If you want a significant piece of gospel quartet history in your collection than you must add this video.  If you just like good gospel quartet music, then this video is a must.

This is another video that is priceless.  We give this video a 10 out of 10.  This one will probably be very hard to find.