Endurance - He'll Make A Way CD Review

Endurance

He'll Make A Way

In April 2003, we introduced you to the freshman project of Endurance. They are back with an outstanding CD. So, it is fitting that three (3) years later, we review the newest CD by this group. Their new CD is titled He’ll Make A Way.

This is one CD that will be hard to put down. Endurance has incorporated traditional gospel music with rhythm and blues arrangements that really make this a must have CD. The harmony is very, very tight. These guys really have reached deep down within themselves and their efforts culminated in giving us an exceptional CD.

During the 2003 review of their project A Few More Miles we discussed the various range to the vocals of these guys. Suffice it to say, He’ll Make A Way takes the vocal talents to another level. It is obvious that during the period between A Few More Miles and He’ll Make A Way, these guys were hard at work improving their musical skills. And, we are the beneficiary of the hard work. In addition, they have transitioned from independent artists to national artists. Therefore, this review is in our National Released Review section.

There are eleven tracks on this CD. Nine are traditional everyday gospel quartet music. Two tracks are Christmas songs. They are “Reason for The Season” and “This Is The Day.” Both should be in heavy rotation during the Christmas Holiday Season. On “Reason For The Season,” the guys bring into the twenty-first century the sound of The Delphonics, The Stylistics and similar group from the seventies. Earl Sampson, Carl Stewart, and Claude Cummings share the lead duties on “Reason For The Season.” Michael Robertson masterly handles the lead duties on “This Is The Day.”

The project beings with “Oh, What A Joy.” The song may not be considered a drive song, but it is certainly upbeat. This song was written by Niko Harden of The Gigantic Overland Travelers. He and Michael Robertson share lead duties.

The influence of rhythm and blues can really be felt on “God Can Make It Better.” Don’t run away from this song because of the heavy influence of rhythm and blues. It is still in the traditional quartet arena. And it has a powerful message. Earl Sampson and Claude Cummings, Jr. show that they are solidly rooted in the traditional quartet genre, and yet, at the same time, are able to incorporate that slow soul music style into the song.

Carl Stewart and Michael Robertson share lead duties on “Get Your Life Right,” which is followed by Michael Robertson pushing the limits of his vocals with “Do Right.” The song “A Few More Miles” is updated from the 2003 version. As on the previous recording, Earl Sampson sings lead. Except this time, he shares the lead duties with Michael Robertson.

“He'll Make A Way” is the closest song to what may be considered a drive song. The upbeat tempo is handled well by Michael Robertson and Spanky Williams. Yes, Spanky Williams, of Keith “Wonderboy” Johnson and Darrell McFadden and The Disciples, is a prominent part of the entire recording. In fact, eight of the songs were written and produced by Spanky. Spanky’s influence can also be felt on the three songs that he did not write or produce.

“Ain’t God Good” is lead by Earl Sampson and Michael Robertson. This one will surely have you rocking in your seat. “Gates of Heaven” is the next track on the project. It has an upbeat tempo. Although, the song has a powerful message, to know that two (2) members of the group were dealing with death in their family during the recording heightens the message in this song. Often having some insight into how songs came about enhances ones appreciation for the songs. Just like knowing something about the group members other than the fact that they can sing, will also give you a better appreciation for the songs. And that is certainly the case with the song “Gates of Heaven.” That is probably why the emotions of the group members can really be felt in this song.

“Thankful” could probably be considered a prayer in song. Earl Sampson and Michael Robertson share the lead duties. According to Carl Stewart, “the song was written for the Thanksgiving Holiday time of the year. It is truly a song of praise and thanksgiving for what God has done for [Endurance]." They accomplish their mission with this song. It is truly a very thought provoking song. It will have you thanking our Lord and Savior for all that He has done for you. Have your handkerchief handy. Because this one is a tear jerker.

Overall this is an exceptional project and is worth being in your collection. In purchasing this CD, you will not be disappointed. We give Endurance's He’ll Make A Way a 9 out of a possible 10. This project is just that good. If you cannot find this CD in your local record or Christian book store, you can purchase it from Endurance by going to their website – www.musicbyendurance.com. Click on the title to hear “Ain’t God Good.”

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