This month the quartet spotlight shines on the powerful sounds of Eternal Light.  With a new name, and a new sound, this project is aptly titled. For those who didn't know, The Eternal Life Singers of Marianna Arkansas changed their name to Eternal Light.  This powerful young group made their debut on Gloryland Gospel with their 1999 recording on Avantii records "A Vision".  Hit selections like "Neighbor", and "Send Me A Blessing" made some serious noise on Quartet Radio and in the Quartet industry as a whole.  This project marks the group's return to the recording scene, and their first release for Al Hobbs Aleho record label.  In the tradition of quartet heavy hitters like the Pilgrim Jubilees and Racy Brothers, Eternal Light has a sound that will not easily be forgotten. As usual, the majority of the lead vocals are handled by the dynamic duo of Rev. Ronald Brussard and Rev. Cecil Coleman, and boy do they handle them.   

Though the project does have some very annoying canned applause at the beginning of some of the selections, the music that follows is superb.  The recording opens in grand style with the mid-tempo bass laden groove "Walking With Me".  Vocal duties are handled carefully and powerfully as the song gallops along with ever increasing intensity.  Eternal Light then moves into the innovative drive selection "New Thang".  This slick drive song bears witness to the life changing effects of Christ in our life. As a note, any time a song has a alternate version on the same project, you can guess it's has hit potential.  With the right exposure this song is sure to be a radio and fan favorite.  Another potential  favorite on this project is the selection "By Faith".  This song defiantly is in the patented drive you into a frenzy style of the Pilgrim Jubilees hit song "Barnyard".  While listening to this selection it will definitely become clear that these young guys have a very unique sound that blends elements of quartet legends with their own flavor.  It also becomes clear that these preaching lead vocalists are on their way to prominence.     

Other songs of note include the remake of "Climbing Higher Mountains" from their 1999 release, and "I'm Determined".  As long time quartet listeners know, "Climbing Higher Mountains" was a favorite selection for group's to record during the 1970s, and is presented in traditional style on this recording.  The selection showcases the vocal range of the group's background as they modulate with perfect percision.  "I'm Determined" is yet another smooth mid-tempo groove.  This song highlights the lead vocals of Rev. Ronald Broussard who let's loose with some serious vocal range and preachy improvisations. 

As is the case with many other quartet releases this year, Eternal Light includes a powerful Praise & Worship styled selection called "I Will Praise Thee".  This Spirit filled song pays homage to the Almighty God in classic fashion.  Throughout the project the group's tight harmony and smooth style is more than present.  However, there is one selection that captures the Eternal Light style perfectly.  "I'm Depending On You" features the gruff lead vocals of Rev. Cecil Coleman and some real smooth background harmony in a style that can now only be termed "The Eternal Light Sound".