The Imperials

Item: 'Til He Comes
Author: Stephen Trickey

'Til He Comes

Reviewed by Stephen Trickey

Apple Music TIDAL YouTube Music

Label iMPACTThe LighthouseOctober 1995

adult contemporary ccm southern gospel

In a time when alternative and rock-oriented styles of music are prevalent in today's Christian music, it may seem a bit strange to still be mentioning the Imperials. After all, this legendary group has been performing for 31 years and has released 40 albums. But during this 31-year span, the band has been a chameleon in musical styles and group members. They have covered styles ranging from southern gospel to an edgy, upbeat pop sound and have had members which have included legends such as Jake Hess, Gary McSpadden, Russ Taff and Paul Smith. Even some newer faces on the CCM pop scene such as David Robertson and Jonathan Pierce owe their rookie seasons to the Imperials.

In 1992, two members left the group and the Imperials then left the Star Song label, causing many to say that the end of an era had finally come about. But in 1994 the group added two unknown voices and a new ministry and in 1995 released their 40th project with new label iMPACT. The CD, 'Til He Comes, is a welcome return to a familiar sound. Gone are the pure pop sounds from successful CD's such as Love's Still Changing Hearts and Stir It Up (both carrying #1 songs). Back are harmonizing vocals and straightforward lyrics that make you feel as if you are sitting in the church pew.

New lead singer Jeff Walker will remind many of Russ Taff with his strong, hearty vocals on powerful up-tempo songs such as "Power Of Praise" and "Lord Of The Ages." New tenor Steve Ferguson will remind many of long time Imperial member Jim Murray with his performances on "Showers Of Love" and "Place Of Grace." This change of sound from the pop-oriented days will actually remind many listeners of the Russ Taff and Paul Smith years-a sound that earned the group four Grammies and thirteen Dove Awards.

This collection of 10 songs showcases performances by all four members (Armond Morales, Dave Will, Ferguson and Walker), who each carry a distinctive sound. This gives the project a varied flow with the vocal changes from song to song coming at a welcome pace. The CD has already produced two top 20 songs with "Power Of Praise" and "Showers Of Love" with several other singles poised for radio success (such as "I Can't Always See You" and an old Andrae Crouch tune, "Say So").

What can't be missed in 'Til He Comes is a definitive effort by the group to let the lyrics take center stage. Each song carries a strong message for the believer. From the upbeat sounds of "Power Of Praise" to the southern gospel strains of "We Believe," each song intertwines vocal harmony, effective music and heartfelt lyrics to create a new phase for the Imperials. Long-time Imperial fans will enjoy this album, as will those who are looking for quality songs that include both upbeat tunes and ballads with harmony both in music and message.