CD Review: Gospel Superstars – SoulLink Live 2

Various Artists: Gospel Superstars – SoulLink Live 2
MCG Records
2005
MCG7037
www.mcgrecords.com

Based on the success of its first SoulLink Live CD, MCG Records (part of the Malaco Music Group) has released the second compilation of quartet cuts under the SoulLink moniker. Like its predecessor, this volume also comes from the marathon six-hour “keep the tape running” recording session that took place in Atlanta’s Earthlink Theater between December 4, 2003 and the early morning hours of December 5, 2004 (and they say rock bands have stamina!). According to MCG, this historic session has produced two more CDs of material to be released later.

Given the Malaco Music Group’s strength in the gospel quartet field, it’s no surprise that the December 2003 program reads like a who’s who of quartets. Led by the Williams Brothers, the program also featured Howard “Slim” Hunt and the Supreme Angels, the Canton Spirituals, the Christianaires, Lee Williams and the Spiritual QCs, and Louisiana’s enigmatic crossover-to-gospel group Hip Boot Joe. The 7 Sons of Soul can be heard on one track on SoulLink Live 2, “He Can Change Your Day,” but this recording was not part of the six-hour program.

Outstanding cuts from SoulLink Live 2 include the Williams Brothers’ sprightly, radio-friendly “Mary Did You Know,” which has a holiday theme but can play well at any time of year. My personal favorite is the Supreme Angels’ “God Got It.” During this performance, the quartet lists all the benefits God provides, including corn in the fields, shoes, clothes, and “the keys to a Cadillac.” Now THAT’s a generous God, and, I might add, one who must favor buying American.

A recurring theme of the recording session/program seemed to be gospelizing pop songs. “Love Train” and “What a Wonderful World” from SoulLink Live 1 have already received radio play, and SoulLink Live 2 features several more pop songs dressed up in gospel garb. While you might be inclined to raise an eyebrow at the inclusion of the Williams Brothers doing “Up Where We Belong” (from An Officer and a Gentleman) Hip Boot Joe’s take on Diane Warren’s “Because You Loved Me” (from Up Close and Personal) and the Christianaires’ “Bridge Over Troubled Water,” all of the songs are given an admirable reading, particularly the latter, which remains true to the original while giving it a vamp which would make Paul Simon’s heart skip a beat.

Take a look at Gloryland Gospel’s review of the “History in the Making” concert that produced this CD (www.glorylandgospel.com) and you’ll get some sense of what is to come on SoulLink Live 3 and 4. Meanwhile, enjoy the two compilations in the series that are already available, and be thankful that – thanks to CD technology – you can’t wear them out, no matter how many times you’ll want to give them a spin!