In 2003 Harvey Watkins, Jr. released “It's In My Heart 'Live' in Raymond, MS” and we gave that project a perfect 10.  In April 2004 we reviewed The Canton Spirituals’  "Nothing But The Hits” and deemed it worthy of a 9 out of 10.  At that time we also informed you of the Cantons live recording that was to take place in Illinois.  Well, the live recording is here. 

It is rare to have two excellent projects by the same group in one year.  But this new project by the Cantons certainly falls into that category.  This CD is truly worthy of all of the accolades it will receive.

The Canton Spirituals' new project is titled “New Life: Live In Harvey, Illinois.  The first thing you will notice about the CD is that it is difficult to get beyond the first song, “God Can Work It Out.”  There is a powerful message in this song.  The background harmony is tight and very smooth.  The tempo is just right.  You will find yourself playing this song over and over.  It reminds you of The Canton Spirituals during era of Memphis I and Memphis II. 

If you can move beyond the first song, you will be treated to Ray Johnson singing lead on “Stand Up and Be Counted.”  Ray is one of three lead singers that contributed to this project.  The others are Bishop Neal Roberson and The Christianaires’ very own, Paul Porter.

The third track is a fresh arrangement to Dorothy Love Coates’ “That’s Enough.”  Again, you get the feel of Memphis I and Memphis II.  After which, The Cantons go country on “I Wouldn’t Be Satisfied.”  This is a song that was penned by L. J. Lowe and features Bishop Neal Roberson.  You may remember L. J. Lowe from his penmanship of The Williams Sisters’ 1996 hit CD “Let Every Ear Hear: Live On The East Coast” and many of the songs on Tommie Ellison and The Singing Stars’ “Going To See My Friend.”

The next track thanks God for all of the blessings He has showed upon us, and is simply titled “Bless Me.”  Next Harvey and the guys give us their version of “I’ve Been In The Storm To Long.”  Yes, again with this song, you get the feel of Memphis I and Memphis II. 

The next two songs are ones you will also be playing over and over.  They are “Take A Stand” and “The Thief.”  “Take A Stand” asks the churches to take a stand and address the problems of the world.  Take out your handkerchief before you listen to “The Thief.”  If this song does not touch your inner being, no song will.  Harvey is at his best on this song.  This song represents the best of what we like about The Canton Spirituals.

Once you regain your composure the next song you will hear will be “I’m Doing Fine.”  L. J. Lowe also wrote this song.  The song reminds you that no matter what is going on, you should be able to say that you are doing fine and have no reason to complain.

Bishop Johnson is featured again on the next track, “I Know I Can Make It.”  This is followed by “Can’t Let Him Down.”  The next song, “Follow Me” is a tribute to the late Harvey Watkins, Sr.  You can feel the emotions that Harvey, Jr. puts into this song.

Paul Porter then shares lead with Harvey on “Stronger” and “Don’t Worry About Me.”  “Stronger” is probably considered the drive song on this project.  Any fan of the Christianaires knows that Paul will always give his best, and he does so on this song.  This song would have made a great follow-up song to Paul’s testimony on The Christianaires’ Standing Room Only – Live project.  We would not be surprised if this song does not make it on to an upcoming project of The Christianaires.  “Don’t Worry About Me” is the final track on the CD.  This is a great song on which to end this project.  Paul and Harvey's voices blend exceptionally well on this track.  In fact, many times during the song you really have to listen carefully to determine who is singing lead. 

There are no weaknesses in this project.  We have mentioned Memphis I and II several times and it is easy to say that this is the best overall project by The Canton Spirituals since Memphis I and Memphis II. 

In case you are still wondering, we give this CD a perfect 10 all around.  Click HERE to purchase the CD.  Click on the red song title to hear "The Thief".  By the way, the DVD is scheduled for release on September 28, 2004.