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Produced by: Buddy Mullins
Independent Release

I’ve heard of this group for a couple of years now, but this was my first real introduction to their music.  Strong vocals are at the forefront of this group’s tough sound.  Featuring exceptional arrangements and Biblically strong lyrics make this recording a fantastic introduction to Testify and their music.  Consisting of brothers Brent and Kenneth Swanner along with Landon Thompson, these guys have a sound that should take them far.  I don’t see them staying within the confines of traditional Southern Gospel though, but rather going the way of such predecessors as the Martins, LordSong, Ruppes and others.  But don’t let that scare you…these guys are great!

The infectious ”ALL IT TAKES IS A SHOUT” gets things underway with its strong beat and victorious message of faith that"…All it takes is a shout, and the walls fall down, walk in and claim the ground that the devils had too long…”

“IN GOD WE TRUST” continues with the patriotic theme that just about every musical artist has taken a part of.  With its big choir sound, Testify has chosen this to be the first single from this new release, and it should do very well for the group.

Though featuring banjos, fiddles and mandolins, ”SHINE ON” is far from bluegrass, but rather more of the acoustical styling that has began to make its way into Southern Gospel and other genres (i.e.-LordSong “Refuse to Be Afraid), and is really a cool song.  Another song that follows suit is ”TAKE ME THERE”.

An excellent song of sacrifice on our part is the song ”LIVING FOR THE CALL.” As a song of submission to Him and the Call upon our lives, part of the chorus says as a prayer…"You’re the purpose to this life I live, and Lord, I’m living for the Call.”

”WITH A NAME LIKE HIS” is the biggest highlight for me on the whole recording.  When listening to this song, you can’t but be ushered into worship.  Excellent song!

Covering the Chosen Few hit ”FOR THE LOVE OF CHRIST”, Testify does a really good job on their own rendition of this wonderful song.

”THE WALK” is NOT the song from the Crabb Family!  The basic message in the song is that we as Christians, should walk the walk, and let the world see the love of Christ within us as we walk our faith.

Almost 10 years ago CCM artists Phillips, Craig and Dean came out with a wonderful song painting an awesome picture of God’s mercy called ”MERCY CAME RUNNING.” I am glad to see the song finally make it into Southern Gospel circles, and Testify does an impressive job on the song.

Looking at the sacrificial love of Christ, ”THE GLORY” goes on to expound upon the glory that came out of the shame of Christ’s death on the cross and the blood He shed for fallen man. 

The title song, ”THE HIGHEST CALL” closes things out with its haunting melody as they reflect on the call that is upon each and every Christian…"The Highest Call is on my life, living for Jesus no matter the price, there’s a crown of life for those who give their all, living for Jesus, accepting the highest call.” As the music slowly fades, you’re left with a challenge, “Will you accept the Highest Call?”

Excellently produced by Buddy Mullins, you can definitely hear his influence on their style.  Departing somewhat from the straight and narrow for quartet purists, this is a really good effort on all parts, and is a highly enjoyable recording with some very strong songs, lyrically and musically.  Chock full of songs to help equip the church for the battle and encourage the weary worker, this is a recording to be taken seriously, and by the same token, is also very enjoyable to listen to.  I look forward to hearing more from these guys in the future.  Check them out on the web at http://www.testify.org.

Personal Favs: ALL IT TAKES IS A SHOUT; IN GOD WE TRUST; SHINE ON; LIVING FOR THE CALL; WITH A NAME LIKE HIS; THE HIGHEST CALL

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Reader Comments

We love Testify. I remember the Swanner voices from way back in college. It's a sound one never forgets. I was so glad they came to our church last year so my kids could here them "live." My 5 year old has memorized many songs and her friends, too! Of course, I was cool since I knew them . I look forward to seeing them at the top of the charts and all over the radio...everyone deserves to hear them as the glorify God in all they do!! Thank you Testify for your Testimony!!!!!!1

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