"Precious Memories is a collection of songs intended to provide comfort in those trying times of our lives," states Chad Smith, Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation. "It will provide remembrance of precious times and give us confidence to face future adversity and change. Under the direction of Mary Kay Henderson, the Cherokee National Youth Choir has fine-tuned their already superior vocal technical skills, and has made an all a cappella album that is certain to win even more fans. Precious Memories was recorded live at the Cherokee Nation Council Chambers, and from the title track opener, the warmth of a live performance draws in the listener. "Beautiful Home (Heavenly Home)" features a wonderful call-and-response interplay between the choir members, while "Sweet Hour of Prayer" and "How Beautiful Heaven Must Be" each demonstrate the choir's solidarity in close vocal harmony. "Beulah Land" is a plaintive somber hymn, and even if one does not speak the language, you will be moved by the beauty of the sound and reverence of the message. |
