The Wardlaw Brothers – God’s Been There

The Wardlaw Brothers

TWB Records/New Day Christian Distribution (2013)

By Bob Marovich for The Black Gospel Blog

If Boyz II Men forsook R&B for gospel, they would sound like the Wardlaw Brothers.

This contemporary gospel quintet from Lyons, Georgia blends the finger-popping rhythms of Boyz II Men, the breathy harmonies of Take 6, and the pop sensibility of the Winans to create a style that falls somewhere between quartet and contemporary gospel group.

God’s Been There is an apt title for the Wardlaw Brothers’ new CD, the first to be nationally distributed on their new label, TWB Records.  The lyrics to several of the baker’s dozen selections, all of which link to biblical passages, glorify God as father to the fatherless, friend to the friendless, and the one true light in the midst of darkness.  When you can count on nobody else, concludes the group on the title track, you can count on God.  He’s been there all along.

In addition to possessing deep, resonant harmonies, TWB is blessed with fine lead singers, showcased most notably on the shouting vamp for “Thank You,” the passionate “Somewhere Listening” (the album’s debut single), and “Right Now Lord.”  The latter piece is TWB’s new single and the most traditional sounding on the package, with its hip-slapping beat and old-school arrangement.  “Hallelujah,” a high-energy EDM praiser, exists at the other end of the sonic spectrum.

The album concludes with the heartwarming “Welcome Home Soldier.”  Preceded by an audio snippet of President Obama welcoming servicemen and servicewomen back to the U.S., the song chronicles the many sacrifices veterans have made in serving the country.  Listening to the lyrics, I couldn’t help thinking that the song is also a metaphor for overcoming the struggles of everyday life.

God’s Been There has a solid vibe that will please fans of quartet and contemporary gospel alike.