Verzuane McCoy and His Army of Angels

Gideon's Army is a contemporary Gospel group who has been in the process of recording thier debut album for the past 11 years. Throughout the financial hardships, to the bruised egos, to the extended hiatuses, with additional and dropouts of many members, it seemed as it all the difficulties threatened to break up the soulful choir for good. However, the First gentleman (and founder) Verzuane (pronounced Ver-jawhn) McCoy stayed dedicated to his musical project, almost raising it like a child; sacrificing himself yo make sure that the ends are met for the continuation of his dream. Now, with a few adjustments, Verzuane McCoy and Gideon's Army are currently ready to show the world why their in the war to fight the battle of the greater good for Christ.

I had the oppurtunity to join the choir during their rehearsal and pre-listening session for the preparation leading to the album's debut which will drop later on in the 4th Quarter of 2010. All 14 tracks range from your refreshing, inspirational uptempo club tracks that are so danceable, it'll have you stomping your feet on the pavement and catching the Holy Ghost within your next breath. The ballads are more operatic and mellow, with a neo-soul wibe that can easily be heard on a secular radio station. With under 20 members at the rehearsal (the actual choir has well over 30 members), the choir's rich tone, powerful belts, and airtight harmonies filled the sanctuary with the word of God's love. Due to the founder's intense ear to hear out for vocal mishaps, the choir's vocal practice was so sheer that even I, a careful listener, couldn't even pick up the minor cracks that slipped through my hearing as an audience member.

As Verzuane stood with his back against the audience, he demonstrated a certain discipline and seriousness without the intentions of being completely cold. He was able to relate to his choir, but he wasn't willing to play with them as they rehearse. His passion for the music flowed through his simple directions and into his members as they sung each song with a convection of energy. It personally inspired me as a singer to want to improve on my own vocal ability. Each singer within the choir has a indidivual qualitiy and a unique voice that just mended together like butter on white rice. Though it may have taken Verzuane and his choir quite some time to get to this point, his perseverance, his prayers and the joy of music has kept Gideon's Army well suited for war (Psalms 95:1-2 and Psalms 96: 1-2). At this rate, Gideon's Army's ambition can lead them to new heights; be on the lookout, they're finally ready....