Dave's Review

Label: Gaither Music Group
Producer: Bill Gaither

Last fall, Bill Gaither demonstrated his organizational skills by putting all the top artists from bluegrass on one stage. Now he's applying the same method to black gospel music. For We Will Stand and Build A Bridge, a few of the Homecoming regulars were joined by folks like the Mighty Clouds Of Joy, Mom Winans, the Barrett Sisters, Cissy Houston, Albertina Walker, Larnelle Harris, Tremaine Hawkins, and Mary Mary. All the action takes place at the Potter's House, better known as the church where Bishop T.D. Jakes pastors. Jakes gets in on some of the singing and he does a little preaching too. The Potter's House Mass Choir is also a big contributor singing backup on this video and taking the spotlight for the song "Center Of My Joy." Fans of recently deceased SG legends, Vestal Goodman and Jake Hess, will enjoy seeing their heroes taking part in this event. Other Homecoming regulars include the Isaacs, Jeff and Sheri Easter, Lynda Randle, Cynthia Clawson, and of course, Jessy Dixon, who's really in his element for this one. The Katinas, Benjy Gaither, the Martins and a Spanish group called El Trio de Hoy give the projects some added flavor.

These DVDs are outstanding. The audio and video quality is first class all the way. Gaither has once again shown his flair for including just enough variety to make a project interesting while maintaining a common unifying element. In this case, it's a wonderful style of music that has roots dating back to the 19th century. Another theme is unity within the body of Christ that reaches across racial boundaries. One of the special moments occurs when Russ Taff is joined on his classic "We Will Stand" by Jessy Dixon and Guy Penrod. Another is when Vestal joins Mom Winans and Lynda Randle for "His Eye Is On The Sparrow." Also, Jake and Jessy have a little fun with "Get Away Jordan."

Some readers will probably complain about it, but I think it was important that we review a project like this for Sogospelnews. It's true these DVDs contains very little that would be classified as Southern Gospel, but I believe these projects demonstrate members of the Southern Gospel community reaching out and celebrating other forms of music that are equally valid and equally loved. You don't see that very often. You know . . . when you boil it all down, it's all about the message. Examining just how many ways that timeless message can be presented should be a joy. I say a hearty "Thanks" to Gaither Music Group for putting in the time and effort to do it right.

Next month, we'll look at Rap Homecoming. (OK. Now I'm just kidding!)

Rating: 5 Stars

--- David Bruce Murray