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

There are so many wonderful things I could say about Testify. I love to hear them sing. What an awesome talent God has blessed them with!!!! I feel that we are truly blessed that they are using God's gift to them to lift up our hearts and lives. Thanks Testify!!!! :thumbsup:

Commented by On 11/24/2003

You know, I stand in awe that this group has so many vocal fans. I never really heard of them until I saw them on Solid Gospel's website.

I fell in love with their music and am glad I "discovered" them. Not in the real sense of the word, but just for me. I listen to their CD all the time and keep wondering, why do they remain somewhat in obscurity?

Keep up the great work guys! :thumbsup:

Commented by On 11/24/2003

Testify is a terrific group. They have a clear, fresh sound that makes you want to keep on playing there songs over and over. I had a wreck and the Testify CDs were damaged and we could not get them out of the CD player. We have been lost without their songs. Thank goodness we were able to obtain new copies. We will be listening to the Testify CDs as we drive of the Ole Miss Game on Thanksgiving Day.

Commented by On 11/26/2003

I love to hear Testify anytime they are near our part of the country. I love their new Single...... All it takes is a shout.

Commented by On 01/16/2004

I saw you in Branson this past weekend! Great job I loved your music. I didn't get to talk to you but God bless your ministry.

Commented by On 02/17/2004

We saw Testify in Branson and all I can say is "WOW!" The harmonies and ranges on these guys are amazing. But better than that is their heart. It is very evident their one soul purpose in their music is to lift up Jesus Christ. We purchased all four of their CD's so we could relive the awesome weekend we had in Branson. Keep up the good work guys! :thumbsup:

Commented by On 02/21/2004

I am still eating up this Highest Call album! I love it..... Me along with my kids drive my wife crazy listening to it so much! We know every word and note! :light:

Commented by On 03/03/2004

Cool Review

Commented by On 03/22/2004

I love to read all of these reviews! It lets me know what to buy!

Commented by On 03/28/2004

I travel alot with my job and this CD travels with me. Anytime I feel like the devil is closing in on me, I play All it Takes is a Shout and it brings a smile.

Commented by On 03/29/2004

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