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

Wow! What an awesome group of young men. They have a great sound with a true heart for the ministry. "The Highest Call" is their best album to date. The strong lyrical message in each song will stir the heart of anyone willing to listen.

Commented by On 08/19/2003

"Inspired" In one word that is how I feel about Testify's new album "The Highest Call." The songs "In God We Trust" and "A Name Like His" are songs you can feel cry out in your heart! Outstanding album, the best yet!

Commented by On 08/19/2003

Great songs! I have heard them on a couple of occasions. My three year old asks to hear their CD almost everyday. He asks, "Dad, can we hear 'The Devils had it too long' song?" Any my one year old just stops and listens at the speakers and attempts to sing along. The beauty of the music is it touches any age. The harmony is second to none and the song selection on this album is great. Thanks Testify, for touching our family.

Commented by On 08/19/2003

The first time that I have heard them was at our church. The songs were so good. That night I played them all night long. I'm so ready to hear them again. Thanks Testify, you have touched my heart and my familys heart.

Commented by On 08/19/2003

Wow! I can't believe the differance in the last two albums, The Highest call is by far my favorite!!! Great Job Guys and I am looking foward to hearing you one day in person. John

Commented by On 08/19/2003

These guys are awesome. I've seen them several times and the message that they have to deliver has touched my heart each time. I have all of their CD's and they are all number 1 to me.
God Bless you all.

Commented by On 08/19/2003

I see these guys just once a year on their northern swing. This is not enough exposure to Testify and their music. I might become their van driver. Great guys,great music and a great ministry.

Commented by On 08/19/2003

my wife and i see testify every time we can. these guys are so special. two or three lines into the first song they have made first time audiences fans forever. believe me, god is using that talent for his glory. please keep testifying and coming to our area.

Commented by On 08/19/2003

Hellooooo from Jacksonville! I just got out off the car and I herd your new single In God We Trust and I love it! My Little Girl Ashley knows every word to all of your previous albums and she is jumping up and down to hear the newest one! We hope top have you near our area soon! Shana and Ashley Pace

Commented by On 08/20/2003

Buddy Mullins and Testify; great job guys! Testify is the best there is! Jim Harkins, Sr., Administrator American Gospel Ministries

Commented by AMERICAN GOSPEL MINISTRIES On 08/20/2003

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