Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir is well known around the United States and even the world. This multi-racial choir is known for its original songs, powerful remakes and warming the hearts of the hurting. Carol Cymbala continues to lead this hardworking aggregation as they work tirelessly to put out great music year after year. This time they do so in the form of their new album, Love Lead the Way. Cymbala, Onaje Jefferson and Jason Michael Webb wrote almost half of the songs on the album.

 

The choir delivers their rendition of Preshea Hilliard's song of worship, "Oh How We Love You,” and William McDowell's huge hit "I Won't Go Back” in pure Brooklyn Tab fashion. The great thing is that they never try to "push the envelope” because there really is no need to do so. The vocal arrangements are on point, but church friendly. They keep the complexity level of the vocals at a minimum and that way, choir directors won't stray away from singing their songs.
 

However, they can "flip the script” and show why they are admired by even those who are not Christians. 

 

If you caught the presidential inauguration in January, you were treated to a stunning offering of the "Battle Hymn of the Republic” courtesy of the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir.  Thankfully it was included on this album. Horn arrangements help to bring a sense of patriotism while the string instruments are melded throughout help to add the beauty. Cymbala and Webb do an amazing job of arranging so that even some of the more conservative churches would love and adore this version. "In God We Trust” is nothing short of glorious and one that I would love to hear them sing in person. The sopranos showcase their range with a few soaring high notes further showing the talent and classically-trained vocalists that are scattered throughout the group.

 

Onaje Jefferson takes the lead on the uptempo "We Lift Your Name," one of the seven songs written by him, Cymbala and Webb. They should think of writing for other artists under the name of "Jefferson, Cymbala and Webb."  Onaje does his good singing while the choir stays with him every step of the way. "Let God Arise" is a quite enjoyable Gospel song that has a hint of that Richard Smallwood song. Gospel enthusiasts will definitely understand this statement.

 

Those who enjoy Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir will enjoy Love Lead The Way. The same goes for the fans of clear, crisp singing with songs of adoration and love for God. There were a couple of songs that were could have been left out, but this is an album that I strongly recommend. Great work Brooklyn Tab!