Ernie Couch& Revival – Ridin’ Fast, ReviewsCD Review

Aug

2005

Ernie Couch& Revival – Ridin’ Fast

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[6] Comments

Label: NURI Records
Website: www.erniecouchandrevival.com

Throughout my time of working for SoGospelNews and reviewing CD's, I have come across many different and unique artists. Some I came to love, and some I'm still not quite sure about. But having heard all these different types of artists, I thought I had pretty much heard it all. Well, that all changed when I heard this CD. The group is somewhat of a throwback to the quartet heyday from the 1950s, and they strike me of being more of a novelty act than anything else. I may have them pegged completely wrong, but that's my take on their music. To be quite honest, I am not really sure how to take them.

Songs on this recording include, “GOIN' TO A CITY”, “THOUGHT I WAS SOMEBODY”, “DREAMIN'”, “IS YOUR NAME IN THE PAGES”, “SOLDIERS”, “AND THEY SANG” (featuring a guest appearance by Country Music legend, George Jones), “BLUE SKIES” , “GOD'S GRACE”, “HE KEEPS A BLESSIN'” (This is probably the best song on the recording), “HE WALKS WITH ME” (I'm still scratching my head with this one…you really have to hear it believe it!), “JUST WANT TO SAY THANKS”, “THE LIGHTHOUSE” and “TRAVELIN' PREACHER MAN”.

Ernie's vocal style reminds me somewhat of Jake Hess. Ernie's son, Jason, has the best voice in the group and is a solid baritone with a warm feel to his voice. Vocally, the group isn't bad and the overall quality of the recording is adequate. But some of their musical arrangements, song selection and vocal arrangements really have me wondering what are these guys thinking…especially with the cover art.

Reader Comments

I actually like EC & R's sound. Why criticize them for being a "throwback" when such loved groups as the Cathedrals spent thier entire career emulating that "Statesmen Sound" and we love them for it.
The cover art is also a trademark... on of their other CDs has all four in Apollo-era space suits.
Good job, Ernie C and gang.

Commented by On 08/14/2005

I wasn't criticizing them for being a throwback...that was merely a comment for people who have never heard their music, so they can identify the groups basic sound and somewhat decide if they'd even remotely like the group. I like the gospel music from the 50s.

Commented by On 08/15/2005

The album cover looks pretty cool to me! Like some thought went into it instead of "slap-some-words-over-a-photo" which we see so often. I give 'em 10 points for daring to be creative!

Commented by On 08/17/2005

Novelty act? I must admit when I read your review and saw that you pegged Ernie Couch and Revival a novelty act, I was taken back. These guys are great. I was ready to write a blistering response.. but decided before I did to look up the word novelty. Websters tells me that novelty is something "new and unusual" and "newness." That is exactly what Ernie Couch and Revival are... new. They bring a new and fresh breath to the music they do. It is fun.. it is exciting.. and it is good. I understand your job is to render your opinion, and I appreciate your position, but what kind of review ends with "I dont quite know how to take them." I hope your readers will go see Ernie Couch and Revival for themselves, and not decide on your review of that CD.

Commented by On 08/20/2005

I read your review on EC&R;about a week ago. The group was going to be in Calais, ME on August 20th so being supporters of this monthly concert series we knew we would get to see the guys first hand and I couldn't disagree with you more! What we experienced was a high energy concert, sincerity in the Lord and just plain old good singing "no stacks". Ernie's piano playing was awesome, the drummer and bass player were great as well. At one point the bass player put his guitar down and played the saxophone, while the bass singer played the drums and the baritone played the bass! These guys all had incredible talent. They indeed were a throw back to the 50's but with some different arrangements. They interacted well with the audience, were encouraging, uplifting, entertaining and ended the evening off with an altar call! One things for sure Ernie Couch knows God's Word, "Jesus" was at the center of their message all evening. Oh yes I almost forgot, I think EC&R;have one of the best young bass singers I have ever heard!!! If you closed your eyes you would think George Younce was standing on the platform, especially when he sang "Thanks To Calvary". God bless all the guys, "keep singing for HIM".

Commented by Ted Matchett On 08/21/2005

Everyone has a right to his or her oppinion, sometimes I agree with it and sometimes I disagree with it. However, I must tell you that James Hales and I agree 100% on the fact that Jason is the best singer of the group! Thanks for all the comments!

Commented by On 10/20/2005

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