We Have Overcome

Sounds like … contemporary, pop/orchestral choir music, very similar to Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir. At a glance … this album allows the listener a glimpse into the life of this vibrant New York churchTrack ListingPresence of the LordOpen the DoorsHonored, Exalted and GlorifiedMake Some NoyzMaster RestorerHe Will Carry YouWhat You Say Is What You GetRain DownI Wanna Sing PraisesIntro to I'm Not Just Clean (I'm Free)I'm Not Just Clean (I'm Free)We Have Overcome

Christ Tabernacle Choir's sophomore recording, We Have Overcome, follows the Dove-nominated Inhabit the Praise, and brings that Big Choir feel similar in arrangement and flavor to the pop-orchestral gospel of their neighbors over at Brooklyn Tabernacle.

"Presence of the Lord" shows how Kurt Carr's new-classic worship song can be refashioned for a large choir, and David, Nicole and Lisa Binion lead "Open the Door" with easy competence. Other highlights include the vertically-focused, participatory "Honored, Exalted and Glorified," and "Rain Down," which some may recognize from the movie The Fighting Temptations; here it's got a bold, soulful lead by Keva Youngblood. The standout track, the gently-building "He Will Carry You," includes a lyrical nod to the hymn "Leave It There" and verses in English and Spanish. Others include "I Wanna Sing Praises" and "I'm Not Just Clean (I'm Free)," which features lead by Calvin Hunt.

Music director Steven Carey admits that the song "Master Restorer" doesn't necessarily fit the concert format, because it's not arranged for a choir. Still, it was worth including. It tells a beautiful story and gives insight into the church's personality—it's a nice touch.