Michael Forest, John Lehr Opfar, Shenandoah University Cantus Singers, James Laster, Shenandoah University Conservatory Choir, Robert Shafer - The Spirit Sings American Spirituals

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Review by Richard Diaz

Album Review: The Spirit Sings American Spirituals by Michael Forest & Co. If you’ve ever wanted to hear a choir belt out tunes so full of soul that it feels like your grandma’s Sunday dinner just got an upgrade, then The Spirit Sings American Spirituals is the album for you. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill classical or folk record—it’s a foot-stomping, hand-clapping journey through some of America’s most cherished spirituals. And let me tell you, with names like Shenandoah University Cantus Singers and conductor James Laster on board, this thing doesn’t mess around. Now, I’m not gonna lie—there are 24 tracks here (yes, TWENTY-FOUR), which means you better have your coffee ready before diving in. But trust me, it’s worth every sip. Two songs stuck in my head harder than gum under a church pew: “This Little Light O’ Mine” and “Swing Low.” Let’s break ‘em down real quick. “This Little Light O’ Mine” starts off all sweet and innocent, but once Michael Forest’s tenor vocals kick in? Whoa, buddy. It’s like he took that little light and turned it into a disco ball at a gospel revival. The harmonies from the Shenandoah University Conservatory Choir layered over John Lehr Opfar’s piano work? Pure magic. You can practically feel the stained-glass windows rattling with joy. And oh, “Swing Low”? Don’t even get me started. That track hits different when Robert Shafer takes the reins as conductor. It’s slow, steady, and packed with enough emotional weight to make you wanna call your mom mid-listen. There’s something about the way they stretch out those notes—it’s like time itself pauses for a second, and suddenly you’re sitting in a wooden pew somewhere between heaven and earth. If that ain’t art, I don’t know what is. What makes this album stand out isn’t just its pristine performances; it’s how raw and authentic it feels. These aren’t polished-to-death studio tricks—they’re real voices, real hearts singing songs that have been passed down through generations. Sure, the label says “Not On Label,” but honestly? That just adds to the charm. It’s like finding a hidden gem at a yard sale while everyone else is scrolling Spotify playlists. By the end of the album, you might find yourself humming “Ride The Chariot” while folding laundry or belting “Precious Lord” in the shower. Or maybe you’ll sit there thinking, “Wow, these folks really brought the spirit today.” Either way, one thing’s clear: music like this reminds us we’re part of something bigger—even if we spend most days debating whether pineapple belongs on pizza. So grab a copy (if you can find one) and give it a spin. Just be warned: listening to The Spirit Sings American Spirituals may cause spontaneous outbreaks of hope, joy, and possibly tears. Not bad for a bunch of college kids and their professors, huh?

Table of Contents

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Filename: michael-forest-john-lehr-opfar-shenandoah-university-cantus.zip
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  • FLAC size: 1239.7 mb

Tracks

TrackDurationPreview
I Got A Home In That Rock
Swing Low
De Gospel Train
Ride The Chariot
Didn't My Lord Deliver Daniel?
Oh! What A Beautiful City
I Want To Be Ready
You Better Mind
Talk About A Child That Do Love Jesus
Steal Away
Ev'ry Time I Feel De Spirit
I Am Seeking For A City
Precious Lord
This Little Light O' Mine
On Ma Journey
My Lord What A Morning
Sit Down Servant
Witness
Roun' About De Mountain
Honor, Honor
You Can Tell The World
Ain't A That Good News
Heav'n, Heav'n

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Catalog Numbers

SU003

Labels

Not On Label

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Formats

CD

Credits

RoleCredit
ChoirShenandoah University Cantus Singers, Shenandoah University Conservatory Choir
ConductorJames Laster, Robert Shafer
PianoJohn Lehr Opfar
Tenor VocalsMichael Forest

Barcodes

Matrix / Runout: DIDX-022207 1

About Michael Forest, John Lehr Opfar, Shenandoah University Cantus Singers, James Laster, Shenandoah University Conservatory Choir, Robert Shafer

American actor born April 17, 1929 in Harvey, North Dakota.

Real Name

    • Gerald Michael Charlebois

Interesting fact about Album

Did you know? The album *The Spirit Sings American Spirituals* is a powerful collection of traditional spirituals brought to life by an ensemble of talented musicians and choirs. It features Michael Forest’s rich tenor voice alongside the harmonious Shenandoah University Cantus Singers and Conservatory Choir. What makes it special is how it blends classical, folk, and gospel influences, creating a sound that feels both timeless and deeply rooted in American history. Tracks like "This Little Light O’ Mine" and "Swing Low" remind us of the enduring power of these songs to uplift and inspire. And here’s the kicker—it was released independently, not tied to any major label, showcasing the passion and dedication of everyone involved.