Phillip Carter & SOV – Songs from the Storm

Phillip Carter & SOV
Songs from the Storm
Available July 2009
www.sovministries.com

TBGB selected Phillip Carter & SOV’s latest single, “He’s God,” as its Pick of the Week for June 15 because it’s a moving, reverent performance, a “lushly orchestrated ode to the staying power of God.” It’s tagged on near the tail end of an otherwise buoyant, energetic project called Songs from the Storm by the Upper Marlboro, Maryland-based ensemble.

Songs from the Storm is Carter and Sounds of Victory’s fifth CD. The project is principally praise and worship-oriented, but the group delivers everything from P&W to traditional to contemporary in its collectively huge, robust voice. A fascinating milepost along the journey is Carter’s reworking of Chris Cross’ 1980 smash hit “Sailing” into “Praising.” “Praising” is a two-parter that will capture the attention of listeners because of its clever and liberal use of Cross’ ubiquitous melody.

Besides “He’s God” and “Praising,” Carter and SOV’s traditional performances are the highlights on Songs from the Storm. The up-tempo and sanctified “Eternal Life” is a church wrecker, complete with a Ricky Dillard-esque special section. “Ride Out Your Storm” is a bluesy testimonial to faith and persistence with harmonies straight from the O’Neal Twins’ charts. “Put Your Trust” is a traditional shouter, showcasing one of many lead vocalists who make the project all the more interesting.

The ensemble wraps up the project with an exciting handclapper called “I Love the Lord.” It’s a medley of classic hymns, including a couple from Doc Watts, sung in congregational style and backed by a quartet kick beat.

Songs from the Storm is an appealing listen that will resonate with P&W fans with enough trad energy to attract enthusiasts of old-school (e.g., 1980s) choir singing.