Tuesday, May 20, 2008

HAROLD RAYFORD SAX TOP INSTRUMENTALIST ON CHRISTIAN CHARTS: ‘Always There,’ holds #2 spot on Billboa

 HAROLD RAYFORD IS TOP INSTRUMENTALIST ON CHRISTIAN CHARTS: ‘Always There,’ holds #2 spot on Billboard.
 
Gospel/Christian Saxophonist Harold Rayford‘s debut album, “Always There,” had a number two debut on Billboard’s Instrumental Christian Chart and #21 debut on Billboard’s Top Contemporary Jazz Charts.

     The 20 song double CD-set, just released, follows the 1994 “Soul Music,” 1995 “Breath of Life,” and the 1996 “Soul Concern” releases all on Tyscot Records.

     This Stellar Award nominated musician, songwriter, married father of two and pastor of Faith Hope and Love Worship Center in Madison, Wisconsin has returned with his best work yet. “Always There,” is his musical expression of God’s faithfulness and everlasting love.

     Rayford notes his influences as Earth Wind and Fire, Parliament, the Barkays, Cameo, Aretha Franklin, James Cleveland and Andrae Crouch. His jazz influences were Charlie Parker, Cannon Ball Adderley, John Coltrane and Grover Washington, Jr.

 

Gospel jazz musician Harold Rayford plays his saxophone with expertise, communicating every emotion within his soul to his listeners. Working under the Tyscot Records label, Rayford recorded his debut album in 1994, Soul Music. It was followed by a sophomore release, Soul Concern, which carries praise-filled tracks like "One Sweet Day," "I Will Go in Jesus Name," and "Get Up and Praise Him." A third album, Breath of Life, showcases tunes such as "Your Grace and Mercy" and "My Soul's Been Anchored." Rayford has called in some capable artists to help him on his recordings. Guitarists Keith Phelps and Willie Davis, keyboardists R. H. Duncan, vocalists Hollie Jacks and Rodnie Bryant, and pianists Ezra Bufford and Craig Tyson are a few of the names you'll find given credit on Rayford's albums. ~ Charlotte Dillon, All Music Guide

     For more information on Pastor Harold Rayford’s, “Always There,” Christian instrumental release log onto www.tyscot.com.

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