In March of 1982, Keith Lancaster, song writer, producer, and original lead singer, wanted to form a quartet of men with a mission to communicate Gospel truths through music. Four months later, concert-goers in Hamilton, Ohio, were the first to be amazed by what they heard. The group was called His Image Quartet for a brief period before embracing the name Acappella. Twenty-four years and as many vocalists later, this singing ministry is stronger than ever.
Originally based out of Paris, Tenn., and now residing in Goodlettsville, Tenn., Acappella Ministries uses music to bring the message of God's love to audiences across the country and around the world. But this is not just any kind of music; this is Acappella music. Far from being a group "without music" as it is sometimes described, Acappella is based solely upon the greatest instrument of music ever created: the human voice. Believing in the awesome versatility and flexibility of the human voice, Acappella can fill a large concert hall with beautiful, intricate music without ever plucking a string or beating a drum.
Acappella's grass roots fan base steadily grew through the 1980's as the group experienced many line-up changes and constantly experimented with fresh new sounds. The landmark album, Sweet Fellowship (1988), ushered in one of the most significant developments in the group's membership and style. Lancaster stepped out of the group as lead singer to focus on the role of producer and manager. The group continued to change after that, developing a unique sound that has been mimicked by countless small groups around the country, from high-school stairwells to large church auditoriums.
Signed to Word Records in 1990 (and later to Epic Records), the popularity of the group soared with releases such as Rescue, We Have Seen His Glory and Set Me Free. Media exposure included many television appearances, while the song More Precious Than Gold became the centerpiece of a Sony Camcorder television commercial and was broadcast extensively nationwide. Hymns For All The World helped to increase the group's exposure internationally as overseas touring became much more extensive in the 1990s. The universal reception of this heavenly sound is now popular from Brazil to Japan to Switzerland to Australia. Recently the group has travelled to China, Jamaica, and Guyana, and plans for several more international concerts this year.
After further exploration of various musical styles, Acappella has returned to its roots with the sound that started it all, strengthened by the addition of a fifth vocalist. Now, with more energy than ever in the group's 24-year history, the zeal and enthusiasm of Acappella's live concerts radiate with songs off the latest album, Radiance. Five talented young men continue the work of Acappella Ministries today. Following in the footsteps of talented predecessors, Allen Brantley, Robin Brannon, Zac George, Jordan House and Zach Wilson blend in perfect harmony as each individual brings a unique talent to the sum that is Acappella.
ABOUT THE ALBUM
The group's new album, Radiance, pays homage to the classic sound of Acappella and will take listeners back to the days when they first heard Acappella's distinctive harmonies and God-centered melodies. Radiance blends the guys' fresh sound and youthful charisma with the trademark sound of Acappella, making this an album that will appeal to fans of all ages. The songs themselves dive deep into scripture, many of them word-for-word from the text. This unique focus helps brings the listener into the very presence of God.
From the start, Radiance will have listeners singing along and praising the LORD at the top of their lungs. Zac brings his soulful sound to the tribal beat of Fullness of God. Zach shows the overwhelming power of his high tenor in All Men Will Know. Robin's energy can be felt in Sanctify My Heart. Jordan sings with honesty, conviction and amazing control on To Whom Shall We Go and Lord Save Me, while Allen's rich bass drives each song forward. The guys' unmatchable group dynamic and thick harmonies will quickly make Be Devoted and The Radiance of God's Glory fan favourites, while the story-telling quality of Temptations of Christ will captivate listeners again and again.
In a live concert, soundman Darren Whorton works his magic to make these new songs and all the old favourites sound like heaven. With the LORD at the center of each and every one of these guys' lives, Acappella delivers true passion in every performance. Catch Acappella in concert in a town near you!
