Reviews

Youthful Praise - Exalted…Live In Baltimore – The DVD

No one can ever deny God's presence once Judith McAllister steps in with her commanding alto taking charge, this time for Glory & Honor , reminding us of our dependence on him: “we run to him because he's totally worthy.”

Amongst the original material on Exalted, the definitive centerpiece is Twila Paris ' classic masterpiece, He Is Exalted , given a refreshing and introspective turn, compared to previous interpretations. Hairston's gospel infused Give You Praise is successfully intertwined with the former.

Ted Winn from Ted & Shari spins a web of old-school funk with his warm but potent lead on his composition, Wonderful God , about remembering his faithfulness and unconditional love: “You bought me, you held me, you kept me.” Another soulful excursion, Freedom , that encourages us to break free from our stresses and shed our past, has traces of that sleek southern soul from the Hi and Stax record label catalogs (i.e. Al Green , Otis Redding ).

A bonus medley not included in the CD version reprises some past favorites. Incredible God, Incredible Praise simply recognizes God, no matter what problems we face or have. Awesome God marks a special moment as Brown handles the directing duties while showcasing the choir's extraordinary vocal depth.

Always making sure to pay respect for gospel's roots on each recording, Y.P. closes the festivities with the appropriately titled, Satisfied . Evangelist Gloria White and other soloists soak in the sanctified, fever pitch that glides from beginning to end.

Exalted's has some passionate moments, yet there are some disappointments. First of all, as standard practice with the CD/DVD format, the DVD adds material not available on the CD. The reverse applies as two songs on the CD, both Spirit of God and We Worship You are missing from the DVD, a unfortunate misstep for fans, new and old. The pop and urban crossover song, You Are , is a commendable gesture, yet soloist Jordan Martin doesn't possess that extra spark compared to White, Winn, or McAllister. Finally, it seems the praise factor is a bit exhausting on Glory & Honor, long after the song already reaches its apparent climax. Despite those detriments, Exalted never will be faulted for Y.P.'s always hungry enthusiasm for the Lord along with their rich vocal presentation.

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