Ricky Dillard Keeps Choir Music Alive| Posted February 11, 2024 What You Need to Know
There is a great appreciation for new styles and elements in gospel music. But there is still room for traditional gospel and "good ole" choir music. This is where Motown gospel artist Ricky Dillard has stayed consistent. He stays in his lane while still keeping things fresh. That is hard to do. He's back again with Choirmaster II. His band, the New Generation Chorale, doesn't miss a beat.
What It Sounds Like
It's all there: ballads, hand-clapping, foot-stomping, and shout-to songs. "Fill Us Once Again" has a groove backed by a bass guitar provided by artist Dee Hearne. Gospel musician Marcus Hodge adds that subtle but important organ while fellow artist Brent Easton smashes on drums. The choir asks the Holy Spirit to "fill them once again/Send it down." The lead singer drives the point home with his squalling adlibs: "Yes I love Him/And I adore Him/I lift my hands/I bow before him/Deep in my heart I really love the Lord/I love the Lord." So sings the choir against a mid-tempo melody on "I Love the Lord." So simple and easy to follow. "I Know What Prayer Can Do" is that good ole shouting song that will get the saints in the aisles to praise God in a dance. Ricky Dillard knows how to pick the good ones.
Spiritual Highlights
"When I Think" is a song of reflection and retrospect. There are so many times in our lives that serve as landmarks to come back on and reflect on what God did in our lives. For some, it is times when they thought they would be evicted, and God stepped in. Others, it is times when God protected them from very harmful situations. For others, it's just gratitude for His loving and saving nature. There are too many scenarios to name. However, this tune is reminiscent of the old '80s and '90s choir songs. Cue in, "Thank You/When I look back over my life/Thank You." Then they isolate the vocal parts to say, "You were there/You were there/You were there." Then they come back again to say, "Thank You." Sheesh.
Best Song
Two songs deserve the honor of "Best Song" for encouraging people during tough times. Singer/songwriter Jason Clayborn brings his raspy tenor and baritone vocals to the ballad "Not Far Away." He co-wrote this song with gospel family Ricky, Dana Sorey, and Zeke Listenbee. I can see it being a mainstay on the charts and in the homes of so many. The lyrics are relatable, especially in today's society: "If you're feeling alone/And sometimes afraid/Your anxiety is racing/And hope drifts away/Remember that your season/It's going to strengthen your faith/Just say strong in the Lord/He's there in the fight." "Hold On" is the hand-clapping, foot-stomping number I alluded to in the first paragraph. Man, does it encourage. I must admit, the choir's tag "gotta hold on" almost gave me a fit in my car on the way to Starbucks. They certainly drive the point home. Get ready to hit repeat several times.
Final Word
I needed Choirmaster II. It's good traditional choir music with soul-stirring numbers and grooves pointing to Jesus. Gospel music needed it. Thank you, Ricky Dillard and New G, Marcus Hodge, and the band for another hit. Keep gospel music alive.
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