Testify - The Highest Call, CD Review

Aug

2003

Testify - The Highest Call

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Produced by: Buddy Mullins
Independent Release

I’ve heard of this group for a couple of years now, but this was my first real introduction to their music. Strong vocals are at the forefront of this group’s tough sound. Featuring exceptional arrangements and Biblically strong lyrics make this recording a fantastic introduction to Testify and their music. Consisting of brothers Brent and Kenneth Swanner along with Landon Thompson, these guys have a sound that should take them far. I don’t see them staying within the confines of traditional Southern Gospel though, but rather going the way of such predecessors as the Martins, LordSong, Ruppes and others. But don’t let that scare you…these guys are great!

The infectious ”ALL IT TAKES IS A SHOUT” gets things underway with its strong beat and victorious message of faith that"…All it takes is a shout, and the walls fall down, walk in and claim the ground that the devils had too long…”

“IN GOD WE TRUST” continues with the patriotic theme that just about every musical artist has taken a part of. With its big choir sound, Testify has chosen this to be the first single from this new release, and it should do very well for the group.

Though featuring banjos, fiddles and mandolins, ”SHINE ON” is far from bluegrass, but rather more of the acoustical styling that has began to make its way into Southern Gospel and other genres (i.e.-LordSong “Refuse to Be Afraid), and is really a cool song. Another song that follows suit is ”TAKE ME THERE”.

An excellent song of sacrifice on our part is the song ”LIVING FOR THE CALL.” As a song of submission to Him and the Call upon our lives, part of the chorus says as a prayer…"You’re the purpose to this life I live, and Lord, I’m living for the Call.”

”WITH A NAME LIKE HIS” is the biggest highlight for me on the whole recording. When listening to this song, you can’t but be ushered into worship. Excellent song!

Covering the Chosen Few hit ”FOR THE LOVE OF CHRIST”, Testify does a really good job on their own rendition of this wonderful song.

”THE WALK” is NOT the song from the Crabb Family! The basic message in the song is that we as Christians, should walk the walk, and let the world see the love of Christ within us as we walk our faith.

Almost 10 years ago CCM artists Phillips, Craig and Dean came out with a wonderful song painting an awesome picture of God’s mercy called ”MERCY CAME RUNNING.” I am glad to see the song finally make it into Southern Gospel circles, and Testify does an impressive job on the song.

Looking at the sacrificial love of Christ, ”THE GLORY” goes on to expound upon the glory that came out of the shame of Christ’s death on the cross and the blood He shed for fallen man.

The title song, ”THE HIGHEST CALL” closes things out with its haunting melody as they reflect on the call that is upon each and every Christian…"The Highest Call is on my life, living for Jesus no matter the price, there’s a crown of life for those who give their all, living for Jesus, accepting the highest call.” As the music slowly fades, you’re left with a challenge, “Will you accept the Highest Call?”

Excellently produced by Buddy Mullins, you can definitely hear his influence on their style. Departing somewhat from the straight and narrow for quartet purists, this is a really good effort on all parts, and is a highly enjoyable recording with some very strong songs, lyrically and musically. Chock full of songs to help equip the church for the battle and encourage the weary worker, this is a recording to be taken seriously, and by the same token, is also very enjoyable to listen to. I look forward to hearing more from these guys in the future. Check them out on the web at http://www.testify.org.

Personal Favs: ALL IT TAKES IS A SHOUT; IN GOD WE TRUST; SHINE ON; LIVING FOR THE CALL; WITH A NAME LIKE HIS; THE HIGHEST CALL

Rating: 4 Star Rating

Reader Comments

I bought the CD from Testify. I just love it! I think it is one of the best out there right now. I hope it gets as much radio play up here in Wisconsin as it will in the south. In God We Trust is a WONDERFUL song!

Commented by On 08/19/2003

I have been to several concerts by Testify and have all of their CDs as well as some of their accompaniment tapes. I keep their CDs in my car and have a "praise service" on my way to work almost every day. I listen to them more than anyone else, but when I go to their concerts, it's not like hearing the same songs. Their spirituality and love for the Lord comes through and makes every time I hear them better than before! May God Bless all three as they serve Him! Sure would love to hear you bring back "When Jesus Left Heaven for Me" to your concerts!

Commented by On 08/19/2003

This is a great CD! The music is upbeat...with the same strong gospel message that is in all their music. Keep up the good work, guys!

Commented by On 08/19/2003

I believe that Testify must have the most wonderful harmony in southern gospel. And their spirit, it just touches the soul.

Commented by On 08/19/2003

Great CD.... My Favorite I herd the latest single In God We Trust and I loved it. Keep it up guys. God Bless Your Ministery Josh Garrison

Commented by On 08/19/2003

I have had the privilege of hearing Testify numerous times, but each time is like hearing them for the first time...their concerts are filled with so much enthusiasm and praise for Jesus..you can just feel the presence of the Holy Spirit so strongly..I also own every Testify Cd and while I truly enjoy each and every one of them immensely, I can sincerely say that "The Highest Call" is by far the BEST! I love the variety of the songs and the God filled message in each and every song. Their latest single "In God We Trust" could not have been a better song right now for our trying times in our country. I know it lifted my spirit high and made me thankful to God on High for the blessing I have of being an American and knowing that our country was founded on this principal--In GOD we trust... I can't wait til their next release!

Commented by On 08/19/2003

"Testify" has been in our church three times over the last three years and EVERY time they have thrilled our people with their music! Their testimony sure backs up their music, too! I recommend them!

Commented by On 08/19/2003

"Testify" is a true testimony in song. All you have to do is open your heart. The Highest Call is awesome and I believe His call has been answered by this group. The single "In God We Trust" is an inspiration and I look forward to what God & Testify will bless us with in the future!

Commented by On 08/19/2003

I have traveled all over the country to here these cats wail and i dont even like southern gospel. i think its great that this group has not allowed the sticky hands of traditionalistic naysayers from nashville to quench their thirst for following the path God has chosen for them. Here we have a new term if you will - deep fried pop gospel!

Commented by On 08/19/2003

I love the cd and its is fantastic. They guys are great singers and the songs are very well written. I've seen them in concert and have the cd. I highly recommend them. I give them 5 stars.

Commented by On 08/19/2003

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