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This month we take a look at the recent release by
Win Thompkins & The Stompers
titled The Leaning Tree.
Win Thompkins & The Stompers
are a family group based in South Florida. Although the new CD represents
the group’s first signing with a major label, it is not their only project. They
have been singing for many years and have released eight CDs and a DVD.
The group initially released The Leaning Tree as an independent
project in 2009. The project was picked up in 2010 by Humility Music Group
and MCG Records.
The CD consists of music that will certainly remind the listener of yesteryears.
There is music with a Southern Gospel style. There is certainly a Country Music
feel to some of the songs. And, there is the down-home traditional gospel
quartet flavor. As you listen to the CD, you may find yourself thinking about
quartet gospel groups from the golden era of gospel music.
There are only six (6) songs on the CD. However, the entire length of the CD is
over 40 minutes.
The first song on the CD is "What’s In Your Hand." This song
draws from the story of Moses possessing a rod. The Stompers remind us that in
many instances God has already given us what we need to deal with our situation.
For those that have not hear do this group, What’s In Your Hand will immediately
establish for the listener that this is a solid gospel quartet group.
The second song is "Shakin Going On." There is an
interesting arrangement with a feel of vibrations throughout the song. To
some extent, the song borders on having a country music feel. It displays
the versatility of the lead singer. It shows that the group would be able
to minister to any audience, no matter what their gospel music taste.
The third song is "Dressing Room." Now, with this one, you
will hear resemblances to the late Rev. Howard “Slim” Hunt. Serious fans
of gospel quartet music know that Slim and a way of taking everyday praises
(like Shame On You, I Can't Stay Here, and Fill My Cup) and turning them into
hit songs. Well, "Dressing Room" falls into that category.
The song reminds us that daily we are preparing for that everlasting life.
The fourth song is "The Leaning Tree." This one is nothing
but pure traditional gospel quartet at its best. The message is one to which
everyone can relate and that is - young people die just as often as the older
generation.
The Stompers
vocalizes clearly a picture of a tree leaning that is yet still standing.
The listener will not be able to miss the message being delivered. What a
powerful story. This song should be in heavy rotation on every gospel
music station.
The fifth song is "The Lord’s Glory." This song showcases
the storytelling ability of Win Tompkins. Not a long story, but one that
you will quickly grasp. Any song that begins with an Old Lady telling the saints
“you don’t know how blessed I am” is sure to get the listener’s attention.
The sixth song is actually a "Medley." The "Medley"
encompasses 15 songs. Yes, 15 songs. The "Medley" is over 15
minutes in length. If the project was an LP (33-1/3), the "Medley"
would be the entire side Two. To hear Win and the guys weave their way through
15 songs is worth the price of the CD.
Mr. Glenn Stevenson has found another winner with Win Thompkins & The Stompers.
Minister Win is an outstanding and versatile lead singer. And, the Stompers are
some of the best background singers in gospel music.
We give
Win Thompkins & The Stompers'
The Leaning Tree an 8.5
out of 10. Click on the title to hear “The
Leaning Tree." Click
here to purchase the CD.
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