Ron Winans
Family & Friends - A Celebration
Entheos Records
14 tracks @ 76:14

On his fifth “Family and Friends” project, producer Ron Winans says, “I hope this project touches those that listen and reminds them just how precious life is.” Winans, along with his brothers Marvin, Carvin and Michael, was a member of The Winans quartet. They released 10 projects between 1981 and 1995.

But then the five-time Grammy winner suffered a massive heart attack in 1997. According to his PR materials, doctors said he wouldn’t live, let alone sing again. The Winans family received calls from all over that others were praying for them. He wants to share the story of his miraculous recovery and the healing power of God.

There’s much to be said about this release. From the jazzy open of “The Lord had Been Good,” to the soul-felt “I Made A Promise” and rave-up on “Promise Shout,” this is a clean sounding live performance. Winans takes the lead on “I Shall Not Die But Live,” a song about the hope we have in Jesus.

Among the guests are The Katinas, Gwen Morton and Gladys Knight. Her vocal, however, seems to receive extra backing support from a saxophone and choir.

- Rob S.