Forever Forward – All Is Well

Forever Forward
All Is Well
Blessed-A-Plenty Productions &
One Change Entertainment 2009
www.foreverforward.com

Forever Forward is a New York-based ensemble led by Kevin Brightman and Derek Gibbs, professional musicians and choir directors. Brightman’s interest in “the golden age of 70’s R&B spirituality and harmonic grace” as blended with more contemporary sounds is as good an explanation as any of their project, All Is Well.

Ten years in the making, All Is Well is a collection of gentle, inspirational songs sung by an ensemble of men and women accompanied by a smooth jazz combo. Executive producers Brightman and Gibbs are also the songwriters, designing pieces that offer restful, devotional affirmations for living a more purposeful life.

On the two-part “Running Over,” female soloist Tisha Hunter does a fine job as first lead on the simple melody and intricate arrangement. In fact, most songs on All Is Well feature several lead singers in addition to the stable of background vocalists. Voices weave in and out of each other while the keyboards and drum programming deliver complex jazz riffs reminiscent of ’70s jazz-rock ensembles.

Another cut from All Is Well, “Experience,” argues that what you wish for – the singers posit grace, love, trust as good examples – can become your center. The song and arrangement are good fits for a youth ensemble. “Peace Be Still” is not based on the famous James Cleveland arrangement of the timeless hymn but a mantra of the title for individuals who feel powerless over the nature of their circumstances.

All Is Well is a “cool down” after a long day of work or worship.

Three of Five Stars

gPod Picks: “Running Over – Part 1”