Search - Walter Hawkins :: Jesus Christ Is the Way: Classic Gold

Breakthrough Gospel Album

C. Campbell | Baltimore, MD United States | 11/27/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Before there was Kirk Franklin, Hezekiah Walker,before there was Kurt Carr, before Richard Smallwood, there was Walter Hawkins. When this album came out, it took gospel music to another level. Like Andre Crouch, the music of Walter Hawkins managed to keep it's spiritual message even as it embraced mainstream sounds. From the first track "I'm Going Through" with its horns and slamming bass line, and exuberant harmonies of the Hawkins family, gets you up on your feet and ready for praise. Tramaine Hawkins, Walter's then wife is a real vocal stand out on "Everything to Me" and "He Brought Me". Lynette, Walter's sister tears it up on "I Need Your Spirit". Walter's tenor voice really shines on the final track "Lord Give Us Time". I also enjoy the jazz infused "Strange" which sounds like it came straight from a Broadway revue. For those of you who love the sound of 70s gospel, get this here CD. You will not be sorry."