Be Glad
Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir
M2.0 Communications

Although the diversity among the members is huge as some are lawyers, doctors, or previously homeless, the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir has a primary focus: sharing the love of God with everyone who comes in contact with their message. Under the direction of Carol Cymbala, this choir (consisting of 250 voices), has recorded many videos and albums, they have been awarded two Dove awards and 4 Grammy Awards since its 1970 beginning in the Brooklyn Tabernacle Church.

"Be Glad," the newest release from this soulful ensemble is a collection of songs chosen by Ms. Cymbala to remind everyone of Christ’s love and the hope he provides in the midst of turmoil. There could not have been a better time for this message to be recorded than in late September, just after the September 11 tragedy.

This cd is an energetic, soulful, and inspiring recording. The songs with orchestrations by the Prague Symphony of the Czech Republic are ones that will make listeners feel like both jumping up and praising God, while at the same time sitting to meditate on God as he is our stronghold.

Favorites include: "Be Glad," an upbeat tune which encourages us to be glad unto the Lord no matter what is happening around us. The symphony and the choir made me want to dance and sing praises to God while I was listening, and I loved how the symphony really rocked on this song. Another favorite is "My Life Is In Your Hands" because of the comfort it provides. The entire choir sang in unison for the most of it and it is overwhelming. This is a slower song, but has energy because of the conviction coming from the choir. What a wonderful text that reminds us of God’s control.

- Amanda M.