Album Review: There’s A Brightside Somewhere by Harris Gospel Chorus
Let me tell ya, this album is like a warm hug for your soul. Released back in '79 by Baldwin Sound Productions, There’s A Brightside Somewhere brings together the raw energy of funk and soul with the uplifting spirit of gospel music. It’s one of those records that makes you wanna clap, sing along, or just sit quietly letting it wash over you. And trust me—it sticks with you.
The first track I gotta talk about is “His Eye Is On The Sparrow.” Man, this song hits different. You can feel the weight behind every word sung by Sis. Carol Corbett and Bro. Larry Lewis—they don’t just sing; they testify. The organ work from Dea. Albert W. Chambers adds this rich, churchy vibe that feels so authentic, like you’re sitting right there in the pews on a Sunday morning. When they hit that chorus—"I sing because I’m happy, I sing because I’m free"—it’s impossible not to smile. This isn’t polished studio perfection; it’s real people pouring their hearts out. That’s what makes it unforgettable.
Then there’s “How I Got Over.” Oh man, this one slaps. The whole choir comes alive here, led by Chorus Master Sis. Rachel Cammack, who clearly knows how to bring folks together. Sis. Loretta Waters’ voice cuts through at just the right moments, giving me goosebumps every time. It’s one of those songs where you kinda forget everything else around you—work stress, bills, all that jazz—and just focus on the message of triumph and faith. Plus, the piano played by Sis. Barbara Johnson? Perfectly understated yet powerful enough to hold everything together.
What really stands out about this record is its humanity. These aren’t celebrities or big-name stars—it’s regular folks singing about hope, struggle, and finding light even when things seem dark. Photographer Abdul Alim Abdullah Muhammad captured something special in the cover art too—it looks like a family photo, unpolished but full of love and pride.
Reflecting on this album, I think what gets me most is how timeless it feels. In 1979, these singers were sharing stories of resilience and joy during some tough times. Listening today, decades later, those same messages still resonate. Life hasn’t gotten any easier, but albums like this remind us we’re never alone in our struggles.
And honestly? If you listen closely, you might catch yourself humming “There’s A Brightside Somewhere” long after the record ends. Not bad for a bunch of friends making music almost 45 years ago, huh?
