Several years ago Larnell Starkey & The Spiritual Seven Gospel Singers released a CD titled CHRISTMASTIME With Larnell Starkey & The Spiritual Seven Gospel Singers.  For this CD the group’s name was expanded to include “Gospel Singers.”  However, this is the same group that gave us the CDs Live: "Resting In The Sweet Bye & Bye" and Be Careful How You Treat Me.  And, as with their prior recordings, this one is also rooted “deep in the tradition of gospel legends such as [the late] Willie Neal Johnson” and Paul Beasley.

The first song on the CD is "Christmas Song."  The background harmony on this song will have you joining the guys in singing this Holiday staple.  The lead vocal is just as smooth as the late Nate King Cole.  “Show A Little Love” is the next track. This is followed by “Noel.” Listen closely to how the guys have incorporated bells (chimes) into the arrangement. This A Cappella version of “Noel” is sure to become a favorite.  Men chorus around the country will appreciate the arrangement to this song.  This is also the longest song on the project.

“What A Joyous Occasion” is a masterful reminder of why we celebrate Christmas. The song focuses on the birth of our Lord and Savior.  As you listen to this song, you will hear interwoven into the lyrics the nativity story.  "Silent Night" will definitely remind you of Christmas With The Keynotes. Sing Paul!  The bass singer reminds us of the late Bill Pinkney.  And, yes, at times you will think you are listing to The Temptations.  In other words, the guys really put a lot into making this track a tribute to many of the groups that have recorded this song.

"Christmastime" is a toe tapping, hand clapping song that is sure to get you moving.  The Spiritual Seven sounds like they are have a joyous time singing this song.  This is another song that showcases the awesome background harmony.  The final track is "White Christmas."  There is no doubt that The Gospel Keynotes heavily influence the Spiritual Seven's version of this song.  It is a shorter, but still good, version of The Gospel Keynotes’ arrangement of this song.

There are only seven songs on this CD.  However, you will not regret getting a copy of this CD.

On the whole this release from Larnell Starkey & The Spiritual Seven Gospel Singers is a good traditional Christmas gospel quartet CD.  We give Larnell Starkey & The Spiritual Seven Gospel Singer's “CHRISTMASTIME with Larnell Starkey & The Spiritual Seven Gospel Singers" a 8 out of 10.  To order this project contact the group at (540) 721-1628.  Click on the title to hear “Noel.”

Copyright © 1997 - 2007 Gloryland Gospel Music

Soteria Management and Consultants, LLC

All rights reserved. Do not duplicate or redistribute in any form.

Gloryland Gospel Home