My Brother’s Keeper
NYFOS, 2026
9/10
This musical portrait of Black Brotherhood by New York Festival of Song sees the vocalists putting their inimitable spin on songs by many esteemed composers.
The gorgeous vocal harmonies of “Come Unto Me” opens with the sublime vocals making for a gospel fueled start, and “Minstrel Man” follows with Will Liverman’s powerful baritone guiding the the warm keys from Steven Blier.
Further along, “Sence You Went Away” showcases Joshua Blue’s stunning tenor amid Blier’s emotive keys for the heartfelt delivery, while “A Black Pierrot” enlists Alan Williams’ distinct bass vocals via the vivid wordplay and agile piano.
Residing near the end, the comical and frisky “Santa Ain’t Black” utilizes Jorell Williams’ playful baritone, and “Hold Fast To Dreams” exits with the ensemble’s inimitable voices working together with incredible detail and no lack of harmonic prowess.
Much like everything they’ve done, this is a superb body of work, where the handpicked pieces are of cultural and personal resonanace and blend music, poetry, history and humor into an enlightening experience.
Travels well with: NYFOS- Paul Bowles: A Picnic Cantata; NYFOS Records- The Singles: Volume 1