It’s been some time now since we’ve been able to introduce Smithdale, Mississippi’s own Williams Brothers in this CD review section.  So, let’s end the year of 2003 with the group’s brand new release “Still Here” recorded “Live” in Morton, Mississippi.  This highly anticipated two day recording session hits hard in a jam packed thirteen cut, twelve song CD.  The project represents yet another amazing mixture of styles and sounds coming from these highly talented entrepreneurs, producers, and recording artists affectionatly known as "The Brothers".

As a musical critic and admirer, I challenge even the most critical listener to find a production flaw on this recording.  The levels across the board are all even with some awesome harmonies coming from The Brothers.  In classic Williams Brothers fashion the lead duties are shared throughout by brothers Doug & Melvin.  Boasting one of the tightest bands on the road, one would be remised not to mention the awesome instrumentation provided by seasoned guitarists Dwight Gordon, and Terrell “Midge” Gatlin, and who can forget their awesome drummer Stan Jones.

Those that have witnessed The Brothers "Live" know that they are one of the most disciplined group's to ever hit the stage.  Their break downs and runs are well polished and filled with Anointing and power.  This newest release features everything from traditional foot stompin' drive numbers, to those heart wrenchin' ballads that are oh so beautiful!!  Always bridging the gap between the old and the new, The Williams Brothers give the listener everything one could ever want in a quartet recording. 

Each song is a highlight in itself however there are a few standout numbers worthy of mention.  Songs like the title cut "Still Here", "My Purpose", and "No In the Middle" represent sounds that are slightly different for the deeply entrenched traditionalist but you will definitely fall in love with the powerful lyrics and noticeable grooves.  The serious quartet fans will jump to their feet in praise on numbers like the hard hittin' "Good To Me", the Katie Sankey remake "I Don't Know Why", "Tell Somebody" and the Williams Brothers remake of their hit "I Felt A Change". 

Of all the songs just mentioned this review wouldn't be complete if we didn't speak about the amazing performance on "I Felt A Change".  The night of the recording I do have to say that this particular song was by far the highlight of the evening.  The only guest appearance on the Brothers set came from the incomparable Paul Porter of the Christianaires.  The Holy Spirit moved in a mighty way that I will never forget on this particular song and it can definitely be felt on this two part number as Melvin and Paul allowed the Spirit to have His way.