“Call On Him”
Fantastik Violinaires feat. Danny Walker
Millennium Sound Records (release date: September 27, 2024)
By Robert M. Marovich
Since their founding in Detroit in 1952, the Violinaires were envelope pushers, adding techniques such as superhumanly-high harmonies and hip arrangements (remember “Groovin’ with Jesus”?) to push the sound ever forward into the contemporary period.
The latest iteration, known as the Fantastik Violinaires–the “k” added presumably to avoid legal trouble with former aggregations–supercharge the original group’s 1967 single, “Call On Him,” with thumping drums, a faster tempo, trademark tenor harmonies, and lead vocals by Danny Walker, who has been with the quartet for more than 40 years. The song implores listeners to get on their knees and call on God when troubles arise, and especially if you harbor hate in your heart. The Fantastik Violinaires give the 1967 version, with writer credits to producer and saxophonist Gene “Daddy G” Barge, an extra boost of electricity. The result is an energetic and passionate performance.
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.
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