STYLE: Gospel RATING OUR PRODUCT CODE: 21967-DVD335 LABEL: Verity 01241430899 FORMAT: DVD Music video ITEMS: 1 RRP: £9.99
Reviewed by Paul Knab
A DVD reissue of a video, originally released in 1994 by the seminal R&B gospel veterans. Staged in a small Chicago studio the grand build up of piano and drum rolling reveals an '80s looking set with Commissioned in their bright jackets and colourful stage lighting giving a disco effect. The opening two songs from these Detroit veterans defy you to stay in your seat, Fred's heavy bass and catchy grooves forcing you to move. Recorded live with an intimate audience the DVD states it's unplugged. However this is fully plugged in! A 45-minute set interspersed with urban video clips and short encouragements from the band to the audience. These guys can sing supremely well with great harmonies and amazing voice control ranging from singing soulful, understated tones to belting out with full gusto. "We Shall Behold Him" is prominent in its build from gentle undertones to a powerful vocal crescendo. The set dwindles mid way with "Dare To Believe" and "When Love Calls You Home" both typical slow to mid-pace gospel tracks. Commissioned give their finale with an upbeat performance that thankfully saves the day. A video bonus cut of "Love Is The Way" rounds the DVD off with the group in urban street cred mode but their vocal talents give them all they need for true credibility. An enjoyable enough oldie.
The opinions expressed in this article are
not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed
views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may
not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a
later date.
Interested in reviewing music? Find out
more here.
Product Description
Now available on DVD!
Commissioned is considered one of gospel music’s original super groups. With original members including multi-platinum artist Fred Hammond, label mate Marvin Sapp and Keith Staten, Commissioned literally changed gospel music and became the forerunners of contemporary gospel music by infusing R&B into traditional church music.
Running time 40 minutes.