Producer: Information Not Provided
Record Label: Independent
Website: www.mikefranklinministries.com
While many view the male quartet as the foundation for Southern Gospel’s identity as its own genre within Christian Music circles and secular music, the male trio has experienced steady recognition since the 1970s and 1980s with groups like the Couriers and Heaven Bound. Now, popular male trios include the Booth Brothers and Greater Vision. Here, we take a glimpse at another male trio in the Southern Gospel field, United Voice. United Voice is comprised of Mike Allen (tenor), Jeremy Ballinger (lead), and Chris Bennett (baritone). Bearing the group’s name in the title, the trio releases, Sharing the Gospel with One United Voice, Vol. 2.
As many new artists attempt to break through the upper ranks in the Southern Gospel field, recording a collection of previously-recorded music is the first or one of the first options to choose. While most establishing artists tend to release over-recorded tunes, United Voice offers a capable mixture of new popular tunes and some familiar favorites. Offering covers of recent hit singles, “Battle Stand” (Old Paths) and “He Left No Stone Unturned” (LeFevre Quartet), United Voice shows their ability to sing the most relevant tunes without trying to mimic each of the well-honored artists who originally recorded them.
In addition to the tasteful renditions of popular newer tunes, the trio works well with favorites like “Saved by Grace” and “I Go to the Rock of Ages.” However, the strongest moments on the project are taking unfamiliar songs and recording them in their own style. Granted, the arrangements are quite close to the original, but they sound stronger than the original artists’ recordings. Check out “The Rock” and “We’re Almost Home”. Some listeners have experienced these tunes in a mixed vocal setup. However, the all-male harmonies bring the song up a notch from their originals. Either or both tunes would translate well in concert and radio.
While United Voice is finding their footing in the Southern Gospel world, they’re off to a solid start with recording the right mixture of older and newer music. The strong harmonies and timeless themes in the lyrics keep Sharing the Gospel with One United Voice, Vol. 2 a step above other collections of favorites and timeless classics.
Track Listing:
Battle Stand
The Rock
We’re Going Home
He’ll Never Let Go of My Hand
Wherever You Are
Mended Wings
I Go to the Rock
The Hallelujah Side
He Left No Stone Unturned
Saved By Grace
I Feel Like Running
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