A while ago, when I was first exploring the music of multi-instrumentalist Jacob Collier, my friend Brian played me this album by Take Six. This is their second album, and the last with vocalist Mervyn Warren before he had a very successful career on his own. It’s also my favorite of their a cappella recordings.

The first thing I noticed while listening to this album with Brian was, not only were they an amazing gospel group, but they included really cool jazz harmonies! This can be heard on the title track, which is pretty wild! Then there’s the emotion they add in their singing, which is inspiring.

I enjoy the sound effects they included on “Sunday’s On The Way,” bringing a current feel to the story.

The last song features synths bringing the feel of a band on “Where Will The Children Play.”

This music inspired me to record vocals like an ensemble. Last year, after hearing both The Manhattan Transfer and Take Six together at the Ventura Music Festival, I started hearing a new song idea while going back home. I finished writing the song on my Nord organ. I’ll be excited to share it with you once I finish recording it!

What I love about gospel music is the upbeat energy, excitement, emotions, etc. Other favorite gospel artists I enjoy are Kirk Franklin, James Cleveland, Walter Hawkins, as well as those who feature lots of different styles together like the music of Tommy Walker.

I hope you like this album!