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The Sons Of The Soul Revivers: Live! Rancho Nicasio
ByAll three Morgans are exemplary vocalists, and, as producer Pugh points out, they possess identical inflections and vibrato in their voices. These qualities, as well as a lifetime singing together in church, produces significant ringing chords, where overtones reinforce each other to form a complex, yet natural, harmony. Though all three are equal, Dwayne handles most of the lead vocals, James, and Walter (who also plays guitar) doing the responding chorus and backing, with bassist DaQuante Johnson, rounding out the four part harmony.
Powerful electric guitar chords begins "Come Over Here," as Dwayne opens the service with a hearty dose of rocking southern gospel. Walter sings lead on the soul spiced "Satisfied," then they slowly ease into the peaceful "Pilgrim And A Stranger" all joining together as one voice, Dwayne showing polished capability to take his voice up into the high registers with controlled finesse. "Give Him His Due," is performed as a preaching ballad, before returning to the hand-clapping revival "Eyes Have Not Seen" and "Shook." A definite funky syncopation on "As For Me And My House," recalls the great Johnnie Taylor style of church inspired soul, that influenced an entire generation of singers. Where the brothers really get to testify is on their version of "The Man In The Middle," performed in perfect unison, with the rhythm section tight as a drum. Wrapping up the repertoire offering stimulating praise for the power of redemption on "I'm A New Creature," the brothers go out with the same excitement and energy as they began.
While the lines between sacred and secular are firmly established for the steadfast true believers, the method of delivering the message is a bit more flexible. The Sons Of The Soul Revivers have intentionally taken their music into a progressive direction, crossing over to a wider audience, proving that the best singers, come out of the church.
Track Listing
Come Over Here; Satisfied; It’s A Needed Time; Pilgrim And A Stranger; Joy; Give Him His Due; As For Me And My House; Eyes Have Not Seen; Shook; The Man In The Middle; I’m A New Creature.
Personnel
Jim Pugh
tromboneDwayne Morgan: vocals; James Morgan: vocals; Walter Morgan Jr.: vocals, guitar; DaQuante Johnson: vocals, bass; Oliver Calloway: drums; Jim Pugh: organ; Thomas Smith: guitar.
Album information
Title: Live! Rancho Nicasio | Year Released: 2017 | Record Label: The Little Village Foundation
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