News At Eleven

News At Eleven is an eleven-member group that was originally known as the contemporary choir at the University of Southern California Catholic Center 11 a.m. mass. They took the name News At Eleven for their ministry of proclaiming the “good news” at the 11 a.m. liturgy.

News At Eleven, however, is no ordinary contemporary parish music group. In a certain way, I am reminded of the early sounds of the New Christy Minstrels, with their distinct sound of more than twice the average number of voices for a folk group. Think of News At Eleven as a Catholic rock “chorus.” But what sets them apart from most parish-based groups is their incorporation of brass and electronic keyboards—along with guitar, bass, cello, and percussion—with very clean vocal leads and harmonies to create a sound that draws one into participation: You want to sing along, dance, and clap your hands, even if you’re hearing the song for the first time and don’t know the words.

Here Till The End is the second offering from News At Eleven, nearly four years in the making, and arriving almost six years after the release of their first album. All of the songs are original, and most are possessed of that mesmerizing quality, especially “He Is the King of Glory,” a paraphrase of the prophet Isaiah; “Glory,” an elaboration of the familiar “Glory Be” prayer; and “Sign of the Times.”

But all pale before the masterful “Eyes of Faith,” which pulls out all stops during its infectious chorus, which is a direct challenge to the listener: “Tear away the ties that bind you. Roll away the stone that hides you. Leave all sin and death behind you. See the Lord through eyes of faith.” An additional two or three repeats of the entire chorus would have held up very well, even on a studio track.

The entire album places a higher emphasis on lead vocals than in the group’s first effort, “Have You Not Heard,” but don’t be fooled: The lead is frequently appropriated by the entire ensemble to emphasize the message.

Here Till The End is more than listenable, singable, and enjoyable—qualities which, in themselves, make it stand out—it is downright engaging.

You can purchase Here Till The End at their website, http://www.newsateleven.com. †

- Paul Sadek - GrapeVine Magazine, http://www.gvonline.net/