Description
The Painter is the second musical collaboration project by the American singer-songwriter duo consisting of brothers John Michael and Terry Talbot, both formerly of the country rock outfit Mason Proffit, released on Sparrow Records in May 1980. The album was produced by the Talbot Brothers and features the London Chamber Orchestra, arranged and conducted by Lee Holdridge.
The Painter was included among CCM Magazine’s Top 10 Albums of 1980.
THE PAINTER – John Michael Talbot and Terry Talbot – Sparrow SPR-1037 – Producer: Irving Martin – List: 7.98
Its been over five years since the Talbot Brothers united for an album so this should be a hot item at retail. All the songs were composed by John Michael with the exception of one by Terry Talbot, and they all flow beautifully with the London Chamber Orchestra behind them. Super package and super cuts make this a great album. [Cash Box Album Reviews / Gospel, CashBox, Vol. XLII – No. 2 / May 24, 1980]
The Grammy-nominated The Painter has quite a different sound from the brothers’ prior collaboration, revealing a strong moody solemnity that undoubtedly reflects the recent Catholic direction of John Michael’s music. Some passages will recall the progressive acoustic work of each man’s solo recordings, but you’ll find no rock here. No country either. Rather the primary influence is classical, not only as found in the passionate acoustic guitar work, but also from the symphonic presence of The London Chamber Orchestra, who gracefully enhance the music with strings, woodwinds and harp. Titles like «Wonderful Counselor», «Advent Suite», «Paint Your Life», «The Mystery» and «The Empty Canvas» are all vibrant with the brothers’ expert tailor-made harmonies. A nice change of pace, and one of the top Christian albums of the ’80s. [Ken Scott, The Archivist, 4th Edition]
The Talbot Brothers have not recorded together for several years, making this a special reunion. ‘The Painter’ is an artistic work of rare dimension and quality. The songs and sounds are totally fresh and original, making this album a real standout in the realm of Christian music.
With the exception of a stunning acappella number called «Create In Me A Clean Heart» which was written by Terry, all of the songs were composed by John. The blending of the Talbot’s voices is so good it’s almost unearthly. They are backed by John’s acoustic guitar, Leland Sklar’s bass and the London Chamber Orchestra, arranged and conducted by Lee Holdridge. The orchestrations are magnificent; the musicianship first-class.
‘The Painter’ is a classic work that should not be missed by anyone, especially those who enjoyed ‘The Lord’s Supper‘ and ‘Come To the Quiet‘. Special mention should also go to Stan Evenson’s cover design, which is a class by itself. [CCM, May 1980]
> Apple Music (https://music.apple.com/us/album/the-painter/724544488)
LP tracklist:
Side One
A1. “Greeting” – 1:44
A2. “Wonderful Counsellor” – 2:37
A3. “Advent Suite – Part 1” – 3:00
A4. “Advent Suite – Part 2” – 2:22
A5. “Behold Now The Kingdom” – 3:55
Side Two
B1. “Create In Me A Clean Heart” – 2:32
B2. “Paint My Life” – 1:51
B3. “The Mystery” – 2:24
B4. “Jesus Has Come” – 4:15
B5. “The Empty Canvas” – 3:50
Note: Simultaneously released on cassette and 12-inch vinyl LP by Sparrow Records with the vinyl edition housed in a gatefold sleeve with lyrics printed on the inside. Later re-issued on CD.
The Acappella Company covers “Create In Me”, 2017
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