Customer Reviews

Donald Lawrence and the Tri-City Singers: Finale (Limited Collectors Edition)

5 star:		(19)
4 star:		(3)
3 star:		(0)
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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.

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.

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!

I purchased the Act II edition and I must say that I have totally enjoyed the musice ministry. I can't stop watching the part on the song "It's Your Time" which showcases "KAREN CLARK SHEARD". I have to say that she really ministered to my spirit.

Thanks Tri City and Donald. Stay Blessed!!!!

Words cannot begin to express how powerful this project is. You can feel the anointing radiating from the television when eatching the DVD and from the stereo when listening to the CD. Songs like "The Blessing of Abraham", "You Are An Heir", "Giants", "God" "These Nails" "Encourage Yourself" "Matthew 28" "God's Favor" and "It's Your Time", will have you participating during "Praise Break". Blanche McAllister, Sheri Jones-Moffet, Lejune Thompson, Erica McCullough, Karen Clark-Sheard, seriously work it out during background and lead, and looking so effortless at that! Donald Lawrence and Tri-City have really outdone themselves on the Finale. They have undoubtedly gone out with a BANG!

Wow this limited edition cd/dvd set is just wonderful I enjoyed every moment of this dvd I mean it feels as if I'm right there at the recording. "It's Your Time" on disc 2 is my absolute favorite man Karen Clark-Sheard ripped it ya heard me she did the echoing and everything but all in all this dvd/cd set will bless everyone who watches it thanks Tri-City singers for blessing us with good music down throught the years I encourage everyone to get this truly enjoy the blessings that will flow into your life

Even though this is their farewell concert, their legacy and music will live on forever. Take it from someone who strategically walks around her Jericho walls, daily...this CD/DVD collection will inspire you, motivate you, heal you and remind you of the KING, GOD!! Thank you Donald and the Tri-City singers!!! The best has come in you, thank you for bringing it out in me each time I watch the DVD and listen to the CDs.

God Bless you all and always.

Donald Lawrence & The Tri-City Singers deliver a performance that is nothing short of miraculous!! Enhanced in 5.1 Pro-Logic Dolby Surround Sound, the majestic sound quality puts your living room right in the heart of the concert. I felt like I was there witnessing the history of Gospel Music. Donald Lawrence, one of the premier songwriters of Praise & Worship music, as always, delivered his message with such conviction and purpose. He literally perfected and keenly crafted the sound and structure of the Tri-City Singers. This is a phenomenal concert. Every song was flawless. The most important part of any Donald Lawrence concert is the ministry perspective. In "Giants," which is one of the strongest songs on this album thrives lyrically and echoes the retroactive '80s style Gospel. For the classical choir lover, "Matthew 28" doesn't disappoint. The vocals are strong and D. Lawrence exudes so much energy directing as the song is vibrantly interpreted. Another solid song is the 1st single, "The Blessing of Abraham." Once again, the choir's vocals are outstanding, the message is so encouraging and the musical timing is so perfect. The band, of course, is awesome. Produced & arranged by keyboardists Daniel Weatherspoon & Cedric Thompson, who have worked together on previous Tri-City albums like "Bible Stories" & "Tri-City4.Com," led the musicians on a nostalgic journey, especially in the medley sections as they go through quick, but effective portions of the Tri-City classics. Every lead vocal was amazing. LeJuene Thompson brings down the house on "Cast Your Cares," "And Yet I'm Still Saved" was supplied by LaShun Pace, "God's Favor," sung by LeJuene Thompson, Sheri Jones-Moffett (from Ted & Sheri; she also stole the show on "Encourage Yourself"), & Blanche McAllister (doing a great Kim Burrell impersonation). Erica McCullough does "When The Saints Go To Worship" and counters with the song, "God." Daryl Coley exhorts in "When Sunday Comes," and Vanessa Bell-Armstrong, Darwin Hobbs, & Karen Clark-Sheard all share their personal testimonies on "It's Your Time." Thanks for all of the memories Tri-City!! You will be forever missed, but never forgotten.

This purchase has been fantastic. I either watch the DVD or listen to the CD at least 2-3 times per week. My teenage daughter also loves this and downloaded the cd to her Ipod. Truly a blessing...

I love Donald Lawrence's "I Speak Life", CD, so while I was waiting for the delivery of "Donald Lawrence and the Tri-City Singers: Finale"; I was just like a child at Christmas. When I finally received it, I was not dissapoited. The wait was worthwile. This item has brought a lot of joy and hope to my life. All the songs are very inspirational and they make me feel, that even though I'm 55 I can still attain my dreams (all of them).

Purchasing this CD/DVD was like paying to see a great motivational speaker or counselor. I play it everyday and my 3 year old grandaughter knows most of the words from all the songs. She loves to watch the DVD and pretend that she's performing.

I'm ready to claim my inheritance and stop living from pay check to pay check, and I'm feeling proud, because I know that "I'm Royalty"

I love Donald Lawrence and I was blessed to see him in Houston, TX about a month ago. I had a great time and I know that he's annointed. I hope that he has some more projects coming up; but in the meantime I will continue to enjoy this one.

God bless you Donald.