The Hoppers - The Ride, CD Review

Mar

2007

The Hoppers - The Ride

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Produced by: Lari Goss & Ronnie Brookshire
Website: http://www.thehoppers.com

This record kicks off with a very Hopper’s sounding “Freedom Band.” And by no means is that derogatory in any way. The Hopper’s have created a sound uniquely theirs that is recognized and loved by SG. The Hoppers are celebrating 50 years of ministry this year, and their experience shows on this album. The Hopper’s know what they are doing, they know what their singing about, and they look and sound better than ever. The second cut, “The Dove” is a medium tempo tune co-written by Ronny Hinson and Connie Hopper. Everyone gets a feature on this tune, and it’s a lyrical perspective that I don’t believe I’ve ever heard. I really enjoyed it. One of my favorite songs on this project was “Yahweh.” Its driving rhythm and worshipful words are complimented by the beautiful orchestration.

Next up is “The Applause,” penned by Paula Stefanovich, who contributed more than one tune on this recording. Connie tells the story of this moving lyric with her emotional vocal. Dean sings, “My Only Option,” a short but powerful song. An underlying bluegrass feel accompanies the tune, “God Already Knew.” Featuring Karlye, the youngest singing member of the Hoppers, this song tells us that there are many more years of great Hopper music to enjoy. The ballad that we wait to hear finally comes on trak 7, with “Grace Will Always Be Greater Than Sin.” What a fabulous title! This one has to go on my favorites list too. Topped off with a chorus of one of my favorite hymns, “Grace, Grace,” and Lari Goss’ fingerprints all over it, the Hoppers hit another home run with this one.

Nancy Harmon’s “Let the Redeemed Say So,” picks things right back up. This group continues to impress me with their song selection. They know how to pick ‘em! Another cut to be noted is the Joel Lindsey/Sue Smith tune, “He Erased It.” Kim proves once again why she has been awarded so many awards. In fact, this whole family has been showered with accolades and awards. Claude blesses us with “Try a Little kindness/Less of Me.” Though I’ve never had the opportunity to make Claude’s acquaintance, this song seems to say exactly the kind of message he exudes. A beautiful song called, “A Haven Called Heaven” reminds us that not only does this group have some great soloists, they have great family harmony.

The title cut, “The Ride” features special guest Ronny Hinson, who also wrote the song. It’s a perfect fit for the Hoppers and is a highlight for this project. The album ends with big ballad, “That’s Him.” Featuring Connie and Kim, this song has been impacting audiences all over the world. Overall, I thought this project was well thought out, put together and executed. The song choices were strong, presented in the right order and sung with conviction and emotion. “The Ride” found the Hoppers doing what they do best with no signs of stopping. Buy it!

Reader Comments

This is the best all the way around recording to come along in a very, very long time. This should be album of the year. Goss and Brookshire have nothing to prove when it comes to producing top notch recordings. Great songs, players and vocals and then Brookshire on the mix...he can make a mix sound good using a peavey board and a cassette tape recorder with realistic speakers for nearfields.

Commented by On 03/02/2007

This is the best recording the Hoppers have ever done. This is probably one of Lari Goss' greatest works. As one who love huge power ballads, and for anyone who has a love for those types of songs will absolutely drool over this recording. Every song is big in its own way. I think my favorite from the recording is "The Dove"...Awesome song! I can't wait to see them stage some of these songs.

Commented by On 03/02/2007

Love their new song "He Erased It"!

Amazed in His presence and humbled by His great love!

“God makes everything happen at the right time.” (In His Time) Eccl. 3:11

Commented by On 03/06/2007

This is by far one of the best all around cd's I have ever listened to (not counting Mercy's Well Hymns of course, however I'm biased on that one!!

). I don't find myself skipping through any tracks. Oh and the cd is wrapped in TOP NOTCH GRAPHICS!!

Commented by On 03/08/2007

I just received this cd and I have to say it is living up to the 5 star rating. I really love "The Dove" and "The Applause". I have been a Hopper fan for a long time and this is IMO the best overall project they've ever recorded.

Commented by On 03/13/2007

I had the opportunity to see the Hoppers a couple weeks ago and the new material is what you would expect from them-Awesome!! Southern gospel fans will love this project.

Commented by On 05/08/2007

Dear Ms. Connie,
I will be getting a snack any minute!
Your Friend,
Breanna

Commented by Ms. Connie On 05/05/2008

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