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Producer: Darrell Freeman/Tony Toliver
Grapevine Records

The Freemans have always had one of the most identifiable sounds in Southern Gospel Music.  Consistency has always been one of the words that come to mind when I think of the Freemans.  No matter what, the Freemans have always maintained their unique style that they are known for.  I have always been a big fan of the Freemans as they have always been one of my favorite mixed groups.  With that said, I felt slightly let down with this recording.  Overall, it is a very good recording, but some of the songs sound kind of lazy, vocally.  I loved their last recording “Highway” and maybe part of me is wanting another “A Way With Words”, which I consider to be their finest recording ever.  But I digress, and say I am still a big Freemans fan, but was looking for a lot more from this recording.

Starting off with a song that is pure ‘Freeman music’ is the song ”PUT YOUR NEW WHITE ROBE ON.” Challenging those who still continue to live and dwell in their past sins, this song poses a question and gives the answer, “…why live as a captive when the battle is won?  Don’t wait one more moment, strip away that stained garment, put your new white robe on.” I just love the message in this song, because I personally, can’t count the times I have dwelt on past forgiven sins, knowing the Master had forgiven them, but I chose to worry about them.  Excellent message and should do very well for the group.

In typical Darrell Freeman style, ”SOUND OF THE TRUMPETS” is a ballad relaying the story of an old man who is anxiously awaiting the sound of the trumpets.  Another song featuring Darrell is the edgy sounding ”JUST BEFORE THE FALL”.

I will admit I was a little disappointed in ”SEA WALKER.” A classic song made popular by the Hinsons in the mid 70s, I was expecting something more along the lines of that style.  I mean the ‘get on your mule and ride’ style, and I just don’t really like what they did with this song, especially the ending.

Darrell and daughter Misty do an excellent job on ”THE MAN WHO REALLY HUNG THE MOON”, while ”SING HALLELUJAH” has all the makings of an old-time Pentecostal song with its happy sounding piano and fiddle.  Featuring Joe Freeman, this is a highly enjoyable song and is very singable.

Joel Lindsey and Wayne Haun penned the words to ”LOVE DOESN’T GET ANY DEEPER THAN THIS”, featuring Chris, while ”LET JESUS SHINE THROUGH” written by Gerald Crabb, presents a challenge to the church to “let Jesus shine through our lives everyday.”

No one can interpret a song like Chris Freeman and she doesn’t disappoint on ”I’M NOT SERVING A MEMORY.” Written by Chris along with Larry Petree, this song is a definite highlight of the recording, as is the spectacular song, ”KING OF KINGS”, which would be a great choice as a single.  This song could be the next “Children of the Dust”, and is the real triumph of the entire recording.  Closing out the CD is unique tune called, ”THE LAST TRAIN,” which features Darrell.

I stated in the beginning that I considered the Freemans one of the most consistent groups in Southern Gospel music.  Even before I heard this recording I wanted to use that in my next review because I felt that described them to a ‘T’.  But, they just didn’t hit the mark completely with this recording.  Don’t get me wrong; it isn’t a bad recording.  Maybe I had my expectations raised too high.  Whatever the reason for me not raving over this Freemans recording, there are still some redeeming qualities.  As usual, Chris shines and the song selection, for the most part, is outstanding. 

Personal Favs: PUT YOUR NEW WHITE ROBE ON; SOUND OF TRUMPETS; SING HALLELUJAH; LET JESUS SHINE THROUGH; I’M NOT SERVING A MEMORY; KING OF KINGS

Rating:

Reader Comments

I love the Freemans and it just amazes me that Chris isn't recognized more for the amazing singer she is!!! She is probably my favorite female singer of all time and it's just strange to me how she is never nominated for any awards and is never really mentioned much when the top singers of today are discussed. Oh well.....I LOOOVE her!

No doubt, I am a huge Chris fan...Chris did her usual outstanding job on the recording! Other aspects of the recording were the letdowns for me.

Thanks for the comments!

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