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 The
Gospel Chicks are much more then three female voices blending in
flawless harmony. The Gospel Chicks is a gospel album of unique
bluegrass music , penned by the very capable hand of Jerry Presley.
It is also highly skilled and accomplished musicians lending their
talents to the CD.
Presley,
writer of more than 100 songs, is a worship leader at North Coast
Church. Wanting to share his special style of music with a broader
audience, Jerry approached Dave Garcia. Dave, who heads the technical
ministry at North Coast Church, was thrilled with the prospect of
putting together a gospel, bluegrass album.
Enlisting
the vast talents of church members, The Gospel Chicks were born.
All vocals were recorded at a home project studio, while the instrumentals
were recorded at the church’s own recording studio. The entire
album was produced, mixed and mastered by Garcia and Alan Dicato.
Promoted as a Black and White project, Black and White being the
record label of North Coast Church, all proceeds from sales will
go toward the church’s relocation fund.
The
“Chicks” themselves consist of Anne Lilly, Michalina
Miller and Lynn Tsunekawa. Starting off is the traditional “Down
To The River To Pray,” introducing us to the outstanding voices
acapella. “Walking Up The Kings Highway,” an upbeat
tune, follows with exceptional banjo supplied by Dennis Caplinger,
who is a sought after session player in Nashville.
“Dancing
Through Those Pearly Gates” is a splendid example of stellar
songwriting from the lyrics to the musical arrangement. Just try
not to dance! “The Picture” sings of the crucifixion
of our Lord and of the sacrifice He made for all of us. This track
beautifully showcases mandolin and fiddle, with upright bass throughout
the album supplied by Clay Avilez.
“Holy
Spirit Come” demonstrates angelic harmonies with Mark Rounds
supplying notable guitar. The soulful wail of Garcia’s harmonica
starts off “In The Midst Of It All,” reminding us that
Jesus is there and He cares. Comforting words in today’s busy
world.
More
fun banjo accompanies “In A Moment Of Prayer.” Tom Cunningham
treats us once again to outstanding fiddle on “He Is Risen”
— “He has conquered the power of death and saved our
souls for eternal life.”
“Over
On The Other Side” is a feisty toe taper, as much for the
message as the joyful tempo. Finishing off the album is the only
track sung by the songwriter himself. “The Potter’s
Wheel” is a beautiful analogy of Jesus molding His clay, each
one of us, if we allow Him into the person we can and should be
— “Let Jesus Have His Way.”
Some people have said that The Gospel Chicks is a cross between
The Dixie Chicks and the music from “O Brother, Where Art
Thou.” However you refer to them, it is pure joy. They are
a refreshing new slant to gospel that hasn’t been heard in
our part of the country. The Gospel Chicks will be featured on an
upcoming KSON Bluegrass special, and will be promoted on Bluegrass
radio stations in the South.
Jerry
Presley has an incredible gift and is praising the Lord with his
unique talent. And yes folks, Jerry is a fourth cousin to Elvis.
The Gospel Chicks CD can be purchased at The North Coast Church
bookstore or from their website, www.northcoastchurch.com.
o
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you would like to suggest a local artist or group to focus in this
monthly feature, contact Good News, Etc. at (760) 724-3075 or goodnewseditor@cox.net.
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