I remember the first time I heard The Ruppes in a live setting. I had heard the group before on the radio, but there was something about the chemistry that this ladies trio (and family) had that couldn't be matched by other trios on the scene. Their sweet spirit and heart for ministry made me an instant fan. Kim Lord eventually left the group (and she was replaced by her sister Heather Day) to form LordSong with her husband Michael where they went on to have one of the most progressive acts to ever come out of the Southern Gospel circuit.
When it was announced that The Ruppes would come off the road a few years back, I knew that no one would be able to replace that angelic sound in the industry. Heather and Valerie both ended up back with Kim (along with Michael) in LordSong where the group released one last recording. Michael came off the road to pursue other ministry opportunities and LordSong officially became Sisters. Fans of The Ruppes and LordSong will be thoroughly impressed with what Sisters brings to the table. The group brings back that "Ruppes" spirit while holding on to the more progressive and country styles that made LordSong so popular in the first place.
Healer of My Heart is the first mainline release from Sisters (they've released a handful of table projects as well) and is the group's debut for Daywind Records. The album kicks off with the catchy and radio-friendly "I Can't Keep From Singing" where Kim and Valerie both give strong vocal performances (the song was penned by Justin Rivers and John Darin Rowsey). The country accompaniment of "You Made My Day" (written by Marty Funderburk and Christopher Kai) gives the song a nice flair, and once again Valerie gives a show-stopping vocal performance. Sisters sounds a lot like The Martins on "God's Grace" where Heather's rich alto voice shines. "Everything You Do" has a nice inspirational sound with elements of modern worship thrown in for good measure (and with writing by Carl Cartee, Kenna West, and Gina Boe the worship sound isn't too unexpected). "We All Came to the Cross" (written by Kenna West, Lee Black, and Tony Wood) has a real LordSong feel to the ballad with a sweeping orchestration and moving dynamics from the trio.
The Booth Brothers make an appearance on the Jim Brady, Tony Wood and Russ & Tori Taff penned "Brothers & Sisters" - a tune that is a tribute to family. Lyrically, this tune is a nice fit for Sisters - but musically it feels a bit dated and out of place on the recording. "Unexpected Blessings" is another radio-friendly country sounding tune from the pen of Kenna West and Lee Black that the group pulls off exceptionally well. "I'm Sure" (written by Sue C. Smith and Kenna West) is another song with a bit more of an inspirational sound that could play well at Soft AC radio if given the chance.
The real highlight of the Sisters sound is their beautiful harmonies and vocal interpretation on the ballads. This was true of The Ruppes and LordSong and remains true with this incarnation of the family group. "Mercy Leads" is a fantastic lyric from the pen of Kenna West, Sue C. Smith and Stephanie Boosahda that speaks of God's ever present Mercy in our lives. "Healer of My Heart" is another album highlight (and written by Marty Funderburk and Caleb Collins). This beautiful and tender ballad should play well in a live setting.
However, the best tune on the album (and possibly the performance of the year) comes in the Kim Lord led "You Always Answer Me." This Sheri LaFontaine written ballad showcases Kim's impressive vocal translation and amazing range. The emotional connection that Kim makes with the listener on this tune is second to none.
Overall, Healer of My Heart is a treat to those who have loved the music of The Ruppes and LordSong as well as the progressive side of Southern Gospel throughout the years. Kim, Heather, and Valerie continue to impress, and Healer of My Heart is no exception!
Author: Chris D. Unthank
| Author's Website: http://southernspin.com
Written: 05/31/2010
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Category: Reviews
Comments: 1
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Thank you for the great review! I knew before I read this that I was going to get it. And this makes me want to hurry and get it faster!
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