The Forerunners – Prepare the way for Jesus (Strawberry Creek Productions, 1972)

The Forerunners were a XIAN folk group formed in the late sixties. Clearly established in the vein of emerging Jesus music that popped up on that époque, this one is a very comfortable and warm listen. 

Flavored mainly with acoustic arrangements and male/female harmony vocals, the themes of this private pressed record verge upon the praise of lord. Some tracks feature some string section, producing grandeur sensations (“Prepare the way”) or even nostalgic impressions (“Where can I go”). There’s also some funky feel in “Somebody loves you” and some cheesy camp fire country in “Wood, stubble and hay”. But definitely, the most psychedelic cuts are the moody “Clouds without water” and the amazing “Thank god for” with the exquisite multi-layered vocals.

Hope you enjoy it and more light upon this great group is welcome!   

Tracks

A1. Prepare The Way (J. Bowers)

A2. Early Misty Morning (J. Gilbert)

A3. Nothing Like a Conversation (J. Gilbert, J. Bowers)

A4. God Who Is There (M. Denman)

A5. Lord (M. O. Martian)

A6. Wood, Stubble and Hay (J. Bowers)

B1. Somebody Loves You (D. Lee)

B2. Oh Heaven (J. Thompson)

B3. Clouds Without Water (P. and J. Gilbert)

B4. We’ve So Much To Thank God For (D. Reuter)

B5. Where Can I Go? (Psalm 139) (J. Bowers)

B6. Prepare the Way Reprise (J. Bowers)

Personnel

All voices and instruments performed by the Forerunners with the exception of the string accompaniment, which were written and conducted by Ted Nichols. 

Get it here