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

All I've got to say is, "Where is the last star?"
I loved you guys! Great concert!

Commented by On 08/20/2003

I too see Testify every chance I get. All I can say is, in my opinion, they are the best I have ever heard or seen. They are able to lead in worshiping our Lord, Jesus Christ as few can. Without a doubt Testify is one of the most sincere, deciated and talented groups in Christian music. They do "Walk The Talk" and they are "Living For The Call."

Commented by On 08/20/2003

Hey Casey,

I wondered about that last star also. Testify definately gets five stars in my book. This is by far the best CD they have put out. I haven't taken it out of my player since I bought it. Great job guys.

Commented by On 08/21/2003

Testify is my favorite and this is the best CD yet. I can't imagine one being better. I can't wait until I get to see them again.

Commented by On 08/22/2003

I have always loved their amazing harmony, tremendous energy, and admired their sincere dedication to Jesus Christ. Glad to hear these guys are starting to get the recognition they deserve.

Commented by On 08/22/2003

ONE ONLY HAS TO HEAR THESE GUYS TO KNOW THAT GOD MADE THEIR VOICES !!

Commented by On 08/22/2003

Hey guys! Great review. To God be the Glory!!

Commented by On 08/25/2003

I love the new FRESH style you guys have! I cant wait untill you are in the area! Love, Angel .... Waterloo IA

Commented by On 08/31/2003

hey guys. after watching your performance on tbn, you guys are superb. to god be the glory for the talent shown by your group. you review is fantastic. I'd be glad to get a copy of the CD

Commented by On 09/01/2003

I have been promoting Gospel Music since 1970. I can honestly say there is not another men's trio like Testify in the entire industry. What a voice the tenor has, what a spokesmen in the lead singer. The barritone never ceases to amaze me. When they start singing something just jumps all over you and you never want them to stop. They are also three fun guys who love the Lord and depend on him. I hope everyone has the same chance to be blessed by Testify that I have over the last two years.

Commented by On 09/03/2003

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