Ticket holders were hard pressed to find parking. Many ended up hoofing it long blocks to the event. The venue was packed with rows of seats overflowing to side chairs. Standing room only spilled into the lobby and adjacent rooms.
It was Friday night, March 15th, and the buzz generating concert was not at some world famous arena, but surprisingly, at the Greater Allen AME Cathedral. The famed institution hosted a concert for the release of its CD, The Worship Experience. And the sanctuary was packed.
The concert was a direct reflection of the CD’s content with performances of songs straight from the compilation. Not only was the concert great, but the CD as well.
Typically gospel CDs by church choirs have that ‘in church’ feel. They tend to bring the church experience straight to the music compilation. The Worship Experience, however, is more song stylized and mirrors more contemporary formats. But don’t get it twisted, the songs are about faith and worship.
The first song, Greater, is an appropriate opening track to set a positive and uplifting tone of worship and experience. The upbeat refrain of ‘for greater’ is hopeful and easily enables listeners to connect with the ministry of music.
Other songs on the CD follow in the theme of Christ, blessings and encouragement and the live concert of the CD brought it all to light.
The talent on concert night was undeniable. The choir was decked out and prettied up in all black; shiny, sparkling and smiling, and brought fullness to the work. Their exuberance made it easier for those of us non talented folks to sing and praise along without shame. Song headliners brought heartfelt emotion and ministry to their performances. They sang! What was evident on the stage at the concert happily translated to the CD.
The CD is a mix of up tempo and slow, smooth songs and bound to fit most every life and faith challenge. Whether a holy intervention is required like on the song 'Lord Do' or you just want to lift your hands and praise with the track 'Be Glorified' there is something to address a need. And that’s a worship experience we all can appreciate.
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