“Heal Our Land”
Oscar Williams & the Band of Life
Ft. C. Ashley Brown-Lawrence
From the EP Speak Life – Vol. 1
(EP release date: January 14, 2021)
By Robert M. Marovich
“Heal Our Land,” introduced last year by Oscar Williams & the Band of Life, remains a relevant prayer even as the world looks with anticipation to the end of the global pandemic.
The saline vocals of the sensational C. Ashley Brown-Lawrence contrast with the choir’s sweet harmonies as both build to a musically dynamic and lyrically intense apex. Like a technique out of the James Cleveland toolkit, Brown-Lawrence and the Band of Life reach the pinnacle of fortissimo only to make a leap of faith into the cottony conclusion.
It’s a heartwarming and encouraging selection from the musically-trained Dr. Oscar Williams & his Band of Life and Rhythm of Gospel Awardee C. Ashley Brown-Lawrence.
Written by : Bob Marovich
Bob Marovich is a gospel music historian, author, and radio host. Founder of Journal of Gospel Music blog (formally The Black Gospel Blog) and producer of the Gospel Memories Radio Show.