The Hymns Professor, Bishop Leonard Scott, is celebrating Resurrection Sunday (aka Easter) with a new rendition of the hymn, “At the Cross.” The song is taken from his latest album, Keep Hymns Alive: Cross Songs (Tyscot Records), which is available as both a CD and a digital set.
With gentle piano and atmospherics swirling, Scott opens the song with a warm, spoken word sermonette on the meaning of the crucifixion before turning the song over to young vocalist Kelontae Gavin (known for his multiple-million streaming gospel hits such as “No Ordinary Worship” and ) whose vocals were both measured and at times explosive in expressing the emotion of the song. As Gavin sang, B. Thompson , who has shared stages with the likes of R&B stars Toni Braxton and H.E.R, serenaded with a soothing sax as a group of background vocalists purred their parts with soft but poignant simplicity. It’s a wonderous new take on a solid church staple.
“The music is designed to take listeners on a journey from acknowledging the sacrifice on the cross to seeking strength in its proximity,” Bishop Scott says. “It’s a powerful reminder of the enduring hope and love found in our faith.”
