Shades of Praise, God Is Still Doing Great Things (Independent)

Shades of Praise is a 70-voice interracial choir founded about five years ago by Philip Manuel and Michael Cowan and is directed by Al Bemiss, longtime keyboardist for Clarence “Frogman” Henry. Two years ago the choir made front-page news on two continents by touring Ireland and strife-torn Northern Ireland with their message of peace and harmony through the international language of song. On this 14-track collection of choral gospel favorites, Shades of Praise shares its collective voice and message with the rest of the world. With a dozen featured soloists, there is an air of excitement and spirited joy evident in each of the selections. Backing the singers is a talented ensemble consisting of Bemiss on piano and organ, Matt Hampsey on guitar, Michael Harris on bass, Michael Pierce on sax and Benson Dupre on drums.