FINALE: ACT I AND ACT II - DONALD LAWRENCE PRESENTS THE TRI-CITY SINGERS

Lawrence concludes his 15-year, hit-filled collaboration with the 35-voice Tri-City Singers with this live collection, reprising a formidable portion of the group’s classic repertoire (”Seasons,” “Never Seen the Righteous,” “I Am God,” “When Sunday Comes”). The set offers an equal helping of strong, stirring new material, led by “The Blessing of Abraham,” which is No. 5 on the Hot Gospel Songs chart. Having had a significant hand in molding modern choral gospel while maintaining a connection to the music’s roots, the choir bids farewell with vibrancy and excitement. Big-name, powerful guest appearances abound, with Walter Hawkins, Daryl Coley, LaShun Pace, Vanessa Bell Armstrong, Karen Clark Sheard and Darwin Hobbs sitting in. Deep in strong singles candidates (”Giants,” “Encourage Yourself,” “You Are an Heir”), “Finale” only expands what will remain one of gospel’s enduring legacies. –Billboard