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10 of 10 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Album of the Year, May 19, 2006
This review is from: Donald Lawrence and the Tri-City Singers: Finale (Limited Collectors Edition) (DVD)
This is without a doubt the best album released in gospel music so far this year. I am absolutely in love with The Donald's writing style and his ability to arrange the TCS unique sound. The rhythm, melody, harmony, and vocals on this release is a symphony to your ears. I love every song on both cds and the dvd is just stupendous (great idea to give the consumer both in one package). Kudos to D. Lawrence and the TCS for saving the best for last. I'm going to really miss you guys and hate that this melodic adventure you have taken us on has come to an end.
If there is one criticism I would really liked to have seen more about the finale from members of the choir perspective. He did little off-camera interviews of some members on the Bible Stories video/dvd and I thought that was a nice touch. But given that this release spells the end of the road I would love to have seen more behind the scenes interviews, choir practices, historical analysis, etc.
NOTE: I initially purchased Finale Acts I and II separately and then decided I wanted the CE because of the description provided by Amazon.com and other online sites. However, THERE IS NO no extra bonus footage on the dvds and the 2 extra songs on CD1 can be found on the Restoring the Years release. Also, the booklet is only about 12 pages (you can read the material on the choir's website) and includes a computerized autographed-signature from Donald Lawrence.
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5 of 5 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
A Fine " Finale' ", April 14, 2006
This review is from: Donald Lawrence and the Tri-City Singers: Finale (Limited Collectors Edition) (DVD)
It's sad, but wonderful. It's a sad fact to realize that this is the absolute last time that you and I will add a Tri City Singers project to our gospel music library, but wonderful to know that they've bestowed upon us a blessed gift upon their departure. For a number of years, and in a relatively short period of time, this extraordinary aggregation of talent representing various parts of North and South Carolina, have delivered hit after glorious hit. If you were not in attendance for the actual live recording sessions in November 2005, Finale' delivers the excitement and the atmosphere of the event to you, not only on two CD's, but also on just as many DVD's. Donald Lawrence does a masterful job of including the compositions that have made his Tri City Singers the household name that they are, though I did wish he had included "Restoring the Years". You will also find sprinkled within this collection of gems, some new songs of which "The Blessing of Abraham", "Giants", "Encourage Yourself" and "It's Your Time" have already taken residence in my "personal fav" category. The Tri City Singers are enough in themselves, but you are treated to special appearances by Rev. Daryl Coley, Rev. Walter Hawkins, Vanessa Bell-Armstrong, Karen Clark-Sheard and Darwin Hobbs. This is an excellent recording leaving no questions unanswered as to who are The Tri City Singers? Finally, may I suggest you do what I have done - get 2 copies of the Limited Collectors Edition; one to enjoy now and the other to put away in your treasure chest - unopened, so that someone you love, may many years from now experience one of gospel's finest choirs of all time.
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4 of 4 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
A Wonderful Ending, May 4, 2006
This review is from: Donald Lawrence and the Tri-City Singers: Finale (Limited Collectors Edition) (DVD)
I purchased the Limited Edition and thought it was just going to be a lackluster packaged dvd set and apparently I was wrong about this ensemble.
Lejune Thompson, Blanche McAlister, and Sheri-Jones Moffett all deliver convincing inspirational leads under the mastery of the maestro himself Donald Lawrence. The Tri-City Singers are at their all time best vocally and accompanied by oustanding musicians.
My favorite songs were "Encourage Yourself" where Sheri-Jones Moffett delivers an stellar performance, God's Favor featuring Lejune, Blanche, and Sheri, The Blessing Of Abraham, and Matthew 28(a tribute to the legends of gospel) where Donald outdoes himself showcasing his impressive skills as a director and arranger.
Then just when you think the excitement and spirt filled ministering is over Karen Clark Sheard graces the stage and tears the house down in true Clark Sister fashion. The crowd is in awe, even the choir is speechless. This was defenitely a highlight of the dvd. Other guest performers include Walter Hawkins, LaShun Pace, Daryl Coley, Vanessa Bell Armstrong, and Darwin Hobbs.
The set ends with an uplifting finale of, "The Best Is Yet To Come" and you are almost sad that it has to end. This set was worth every last penny of my money. Great Job Donald & The Tri City! You must do a reunion album in the future!
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