Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

I dare you. No, I double dog dare you to put this CD in your player, press play, and NOT start moving to the beat. You know how some music just makes you move? The first cut on the Rance Allen Group’s Celebrate album does it! It’s called ‘A Lil’ Louder (Clap Your Hands)’ and it will just make you want to dance around the room! It’s kind of “gospel music meets dance mix” and the results are phenomenal.

The group has been around since 1972, and amazingly they keep reinventing themselves and staying very relevant in the gospel music genre, incorporating both rock and a pretty good dose of soul into each piece. Celebrate is their 20th album, and arguably the best one yet! It’s worth the price just for the first song!

These three brothers really bring it with this album. The second (and title) song, ‘Celebrate’, has a smooth R&B sound, the kind that you enjoy sitting down, listening to, and swaying back and forth. You will. Trust me.

‘Champion’ has a driving beat that is anthem-like, the kind of song that makes you want to proclaim victory over whatever situation you find yourself in.

Their harmonies are impeccable – the kind of blend and harmony that only siblings can produce. (My twin sisters and I have performed together since we were children, and we really enjoy blending our voices this way). The chord structure of each song keeps everything interesting and different, yet the same theme winds itself throughout the album, connecting it all together and creating a musical cohesiveness that is very pleasing. 

Track 4, ‘Sounds Like Rain‘ has some stunning brass licks, and a Hammond B3 organ making itself known. Track 7, ‘Turn It Around’ has a great message; inspirational and uplifting. It talks about God taking a bad situation and turning it to good. The last track, Walking In the Sand, has a smooth groove with a wonderful solo piano accompaniment.

Some of the songs are gritty and raw and others are as smooth as silk, but all feature the superb voices of the Allen Brothers. Their lyrics are Biblically and spiritually sound and worshipful. If you’re looking for some great new music, you’ve found it!

This brand new CD is available at Family Christian Stores.

Track List

1. A Lil’ Louder (Clap Your Hands)
2. Celebrate
3. Champion
4. Sounds Like Rain
5. Step Out
6. U R Not Alone
7. Turn It Around
8. Feel The Spirit
9. He’s Real
10. Stay Focused
11. Through The Fire
12. Walking In The Sand