For the month of
November, we visit Clarksville, Tennessee. It is the home of
The Clarksville Soul Stirrers.
This is one of the groups that time after time deliver outstanding recordings.
They may not be a household name. They may not have appeared in your city.
And, most of the gospel music industry may not have heard of the group.
But, they are indeed a solid gospel quartet group.
The members of the group are Clifford Bowen (Lead Singer), Steve Bowen (Lead
Singer and Baritone Singer), James Moss (background singer), Michael Bowen
(Drummer and Background Singer), Brian Bowen (Songwriter and Lead Guitar),
Timmoty Knox (Background Singer), Greg Talley (keyboard), Fred Ferguson (Bass
Guitar), Lamont Henry (Keyboard), Edward McClain (Guitar), and James Crowley
(Keyboard). They are seasoned professionals.
“They
have brought to all who will listen: a message of faith, hope and love through
songs of praise.” One of the first recordings that brought this
group to our attention was the CD Brothers To Brothers. In
2006, they released the CD titled The Blood. Now, in 2010, they
have released the CD Don’t Let Nobody Shake Your Faith. Like
their previous CD’s, the 2010 release contains nine (9) songs.
The new project begins with “The Blood Signed My Name.” This song
deserves to be in heavy rotation on gospel radio stations around the country. It
is just that good. Don’t confuse the song with the one from the group’s CD
titled "The Blood." "The Blood" is the quartet
gospel version of the very popular hymn. "The Blood Signed My Name"
expands upon the theme of the hymn, but speaks more toward Revelation 20:12-15.
This is followed by "Look Where He Brought Me." This is one
of the songs that displays the guys’ ability to handle ballads. Next, is a
song that was very popular in 1975, "Going Up Yonder" by Walter
Hawkins. The guys have titled their version "Going Over Yonder."
Tackling an iconic song like "Going Up Yonder" is a daunting task.
Well,
The Clarksville Soul Stirrers
prove that they are up to the task. This is an excellent quartet gospel
version of the song.
"Pass Me Not" is another ballad. The background harmony on this
song is one of the best on the CD. Often groups will apply variations (in words,
chords, and arrangements) to songs in the Public Domain in an effort to make it
sound different than the original. Well, this time the guys just opened
the hymn book and sang the song as written. Their ‘stamp’ on this song is
reflected in the background harmony.
Next the guys turn the song "Heavy Load" into a drive song. They
have even added words from a nursery rhyme as they make the song their own. This
one is intended to allow the listener to ‘get their praise on.’ After this one,
you will need to calm down. So the guys follow it with the ballad "Don't
Let Nobody Shake Your Faith." This is one of the songs on the CD
written by Clifford Bowen. The message being conveyed by this song is one
that everyone should take to heart. Mr. Bowen has really delivered a powerful
message in penning this song. He also sings lead on this one. And,
speaking of singing lead, he is the lead singer on "Look Where He Brought
Me, "Heavy Load," and "Joy Comes In The Morning."
"It’s Not About Me" follows "Don’t Let Nobody Shake Your
Faith." Clifford Bowen wrote this song and also sings lead on it.
The next song on the project is "There’s Someone Missing Around Home."
Get your handkerchief out for this one. You will find yourself reminiscing about
loved ones that have transitioned to "The Other Shore." This
one may very well end up being part of many Home Going Services. Steven Bowen
wrote the song and sings lead on it. Mr. Bowen is obviously an accomplished lead
singer. He masterfully handles a song that is sure to bring tears to the eyes of
many – wow! He also sings lead on "The Blood Sign My Name,"
"Going Over Yonder," and "Pass Me Not."
The project closes with "Joy Comes In The Morning." After
reflecting on those that are ‘Missing Around Home,’ it is good to be reminded
that "Joy Comes In The Morning." The upbeat tempo to this song is
an awesome ending to a well-rounded project.
This group is truly one of the many hidden treasures in gospel music. They know
how to sing. Their songs convey messages that touch the listeners. And,
you will not regret obtaining a copy of this CD.
We give
The Clarksville Soul Stirrers'
Don't Let Nobody Shake Your Faith
an 8.5
out of 10. Click on the title to hear “The
Blood Signed My Name."
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