Ebony, Karima, and Heather have 12 successful years of music ministry behind them, but never has their sound been tighter, the beats fresher, or the production fit them better. “Testimony” feels like a culmination, and producer Fred “Uncle Freddie” Jerkins has to be given big props for the “rightness” of the project, because nobody knows the contemporary industry better.
Right from the get-go, you can feel and hear the new richness and vitality, apparent immediately in the solid keys and fertile vocals of the hooky “Follow Me.” It’s uphill all the way from there, with the percolating sonic rhythms beneath the oh-so-smooth vocals of “Testimony,” honoring the faithfulness of God.
It’s time to hit the floor once the slammin’ beats of “123 Praise” ring out, calling us to cut loose in praise to the One who is Worthy. This track features the sizzling rap of T-Bone, bouncing nicely off the sister’s smooth groove. “Thank You Jesus” introduces some narrative artistry as the sisters exchange stories of the Lord’s protection, on the road and in the street. Its slow drag is a great format for these searing testimonies of God’s goodness and presence. This track is followed by standout “Fall Again,” an emotional plea for the return of the Holy Spirit. I dug the slight dissonance of the piano accompaniment, adding to the tension of the subject matter and the emotive powers of the heartfelt vocals.
“Get Up” is lively old-school gospel, a hand-clapper that was one of my favorite tracks with its simmering organ, solid bass line, and earthy vocals. “Praises to You” is more passionate worship, featuring Martha Munizzi. The song moves into some great free-flowing worship as the track closes out, always soul-stirring. The sizzling “Down With It” jams in the same way, as it calls us to come into the full life of Christ. The album closes out with an untitled dance track, a final holla out to all as the party draws to an end. Virtue is back strong with “Testimony,” their best yet.
