Karen Washington & THe New Singing Stars

Karen Washington & The New Singing Stars

Jesus Is Alive

This month we review the new CD by Karen Washington & The New Singing Stars. The title of the CD is Jesus Is Alive. This is the group’s third recording. Their first CD, which was recorded in 2000, was titled "Help Me Make It." In 2003-2004 they recorded their second CD titled "Jesus Is My Everything." This CD was produced by Eric Sharper of Dream Reality Productions. The newly released CD, "Jesus Is Alive," was released in 2006. The 2006 release was also produced by Eric Sharper of Dream Reality Productions.

To really understand the depth of Karen’s musical talent it is appropriate to shed a little light on her background. She began singing as a youth in her church’s choir. In 1975 she was instrumental in forming the group “The Family Starlites." They performed for many years together spreading the gospel through songs. The group Karen Washington and The New Singing Stars was formed in 1995.

The CD Jesus Is Alive contains all new songs. There are 11 songs on the CD. The first is the title track “Jesus Is Alive.” This mid-tempo song will have you thinking that you are listening to some of the great female vocalists of the rhythm and blues era from the seventies. In fact many of the songs on the CD fast that seventies’ feel to them.

“I Recommend Jesus” is the next track. This track will stand out because of the tight background harmony. It has a very solid message and the group’s delivery of that message in song is great. This great song is followed by “What You Want The Lord To Do.”

The next track is “God Can.” Karen and the group slows the tempo down with this song. The song reminds you that no matter what the situation - “God Can.” “Hold On A Little While Longer” is the next track. What a fitting song to follow “God Can.” Because “Hold On A Little While Longer” encourages you to hold on until God does whatever it is you are asking the Holy Spirit to do.

“You Got To Reap What You Sow” is a reworking of the message that has been recorded by so many artist; essentially, you “sow good seed,” because you will reap what you sow. This ballad by Karen and the group is a refreshing reminder of this all important message.

‘Troubles” is the next track. This ballad could have easily been titled ‘What You Should Do When Trouble Comes in Your Life.’ The song assures us that trouble is every where and at the same time so is God. So, no matter what the ‘trouble’ God can handle it.

Realizing that God can handle all of your troubles, the next track tells you it is “Time To Pray.” This is the closing song on the project to a drive song. Although, it may be considered a drive song, the instruments do not take front stage on the song. There is just enough instrumentation to have you tapping your toes and clapping your hand, while at the same time allowing you to absorb the strong message being conveyed by the song.

The project slows down considerably with a song that never grows old – “Jesus Keep Me Near The Cross.” This song has been recorded so many times until you would think you have heard all variations in arrangement that could be given to the song. Who can forget the late Frank Williams and The Mississippi Mass Choir's version of this song. And it would be virtually impossible to name all of the gospel quartet groups that have recorded this song. But, as any accomplished artist would do, Karen puts her own flair and style to this song. So, you are actually drawn to the song. You will find yourself playing this track over and over.

The longest song on the project is also a great praise and worship song. It is “We Worship You.” This is a song that many choirs would probably enjoy singing. It is truly ‘praise and worship.’

The final track is actually a bonus song. The title of the track is “Mama Song.” It is a positive word of thanks to all mothers. It is definitely not a sad song. It is one that should be in heavy rotation during the Mother’s Day time of the year. Don’t be surprise if you find yourself comparing Karen’s singing of this song to Candi Staton.

This project by Karen Washington & The New Singing Stars is, on the whole, a great recording. The project is well produced. We give Karen Washington & The New Singing Stars’ Jesus Is Alive a solid 8 out of 10. To order this project click HERE. Click on the title to hear "Jesus Is Alive."

Gloryland Gospel Home