Unidivided is a Southern California a cappella male sextet first formed in the spring of 2001, whose wide range of musical influences include Latin, Gospel, Contemporary Christian, Reggae, Pop, Jazz, R&B and Rock. We first were blown away by the group's distinctive style at the 2003 National Finals, where their arrangement of "Amazing Grace" drew a huge ovation from the audience. Their recent accomplishments include 2 CARA award nominations and another win at the 2005 LA Sweeps Regional, bringing them to San Rafael for the 2005 Finals. "From The Soul" is basically a Gospel CD, but it begins with the showy, funky "Jamappella," with fake horns, classical samples and a pure, sweet whistled melody line as powerful as that in any spaghetti western. "Lord I Lift Your Name On High" is a joyous reggae gospel tune that had us boogying in the aisles. "When the Roll Is Called Up Yonder" would hardly be recognized by its composer, with vocal percussion, "trumpet" solo and funky arrangement that turn the song into a celebratory romp. "What a Friend We Have in Jesus" appears twice, first as a jazzy, bluenote harmonic feast, and at the end of the CD with added vocal percussion. "I Wanna Change," "Nao Ha Deus Tao Grande Como Tu," "Amazing Grace," "Es Jesus" and "What's Going On" complete the songlist. A surprising, upbeat debut CD from one of the most dynamic and innovative Contemporary Christian groups we've heard! |
