The Gospel Truth

by Rose of Sharon WitmerTrombone player Wycliffe Gordon plays from his gospel roots on this CD entitled The Gospel Truth, released in the year 2000. Gordon grew up in a gospel church in his home state of Georgia. His father was the church pianist, assuring that his son's home and church life were filled with religious music. The gospel church musical experience draws on diverse elements, from traditional spirituals and hymns to blues to jazz, played on a variety of instruments and sung by voices dedicated to praising the Lord. It is no wonder, then, that Gordon sounds right at home with this music -- he is. Joining him on the album are trumpeter Marcus Printup and pianist Eric Reed, Reuben Rogers on bass, Winard Harper on drums, and Victor Goines on clarinet. These jazzmen are in a gospel mode, in which they are joined by a daughter of the church, Carrie Smith, on vocals. Together, they create a praise service that features traditional hymns, contemporary gospel tunes, and original compositions by Gordon. Listeners who love that old-time religion may especially enjoy "Jesus Loves Me," "The Lord's Prayer," "What a Friend We Have in Jesus," and "Take My Hand, Precious Lord." Gordon is quick to acknowledge that his talents are God-given, and he shows it, on "The Hallelujah Scat," "The Deacon's Moan," and the title cut, as he turns his trombone into an instrument of praise. Victor Goines follows that lead as he plays a soulful rendition of "The Battle Hymn of the Republic." Reed and Printup, Harper and Rogers are right on in their sensitive and joyous contributions to the recording. The most outstanding cut on this great album may be the selection that features all the musicians. Led by the mighty voice of Smith, the entire group sings and plays on the inspirational "There's a Tree." The album closes with a piece composed by Gordon entitled "The Message." There is a popular saying in the gospel tradition: The message is in the music. It is on this CD.