Sept 9, 2010 - Grand Rapids Press

The new CD features jazz strains in songs such as "His Name Is Jesus" and "We Love You," a rock ballad titled "Because You Made Me," and a country-rocker "I'm Healed Now."

A tune called "Beautiful World" turned into a great funk groove, according to Nunez.

The album was recorded and produced both in Nashville at Creative Soul and in Grand Rapids at Sound Post Studio.

In August, the band scored a finalist slot at the Unity Christian Music Festival's regional talent contest in Muskegon. The ensemble debuted its CD and performed in front of hundreds of new faces.

"I think that our live sound is more energetic and a little more Latin thanks to our conga player (Angel Berrios), who really brings that out," Nunez said.

Performing two days a week at the church plus a weekly rehearsal, the Uptown Praise Band had fashioned a tight sound that includes as many as five background vocalists. Rebecca Start plays keys and drummer is Robert Williamdyke.

Humphrey said performing throughout the community has been satisfying.

"This is a real commitment, but it's something I've been called to do, so it's a priority," she said. "It's different than just singing inside the church, but it's been very good."

The Uptown Praise Band is a regular performer at the new Common Ground in the former Parable-Kregels store on Kalamazoo Ave. SE. The retail/music venue celebrates its grand opening with Friday evening's concert and music all day on Saturday.



< Go Back