The Anointed Pace Sisters | Access Granted
The Anointed Pace Sisters – Access Granted
Nine sisters who are all musically inclined and have the same ministry goals may seem a bit overwhelming at times when it comes down to team work. Yet since they first opened their mouth to sing, all of The Anointed Pace Sisters (TAPS) learned to balance their various personalities for the cause of remaining loyal to Jesus Christ without compromise. Strange as it may seem, the sisters at first wanted to strive for careers other than music. Their parents who were very active in the church had other plans as they pushed and nurtured all the sisters toward music ministry excellence.
TAPS consists of Duranice, Phyllis, June, Melonda, Leslie, Latrice, Lydia & DeJuaii, who first started performing together in local talent shows and church services. LaShun also recorded with TAPS in their earlier years until her solo career took off, and still guests with the group from time to time. The irinitial break came through their participation in the Annual Church of God in Christ (COGIC) conventions in the seventies under the direction of gospel legend Dr. Mattie Moss Clark, in which they won Best Gospel Group performance. It was a matter of some time, though, before TAPS finally started their recording phase of their ministry.
After two independent projects, TAPS signed with the legendary blues/gospel company Savoy Records in the early nineties. Their
When not in the studio, TAPS has continued to be humbled through years of trials and tribulations and miles well traveled. No matter what wrong came their way, TAPS holds fast to the principle of God holding themselves accountable for their responses and for their obedience to the Word. Through those lessons learned as music ministers, TAPS continues to mature just as the music ministers their parents inspired them to be. Because of their high integrity, they have been afforded more opportunities in the entertainment industry including stage appearances (Jesus Christ Superstar), movies (The Fighting Temptations) and even a Jiffy Lube commercial.
With their riveting voices and their abilities to teach scripture to their audiences, TAPS primarily concentrates on live recording settings,including their latest Access Granted. Once again, TAPS delivers the gospel goods in this mostly recommended disc from Tyscot Records. Their opener “A Friend” ignites the proceedings talking about the friend they call Jesus. “Seed of Righteousness” delivers a Carribean feel while “Get In His Presence” recalls funky disco vibes of the eighties. TAPS knows how to slow the pace down while kicking in the worship factor and wisely applying a few teaching moments. The Keisha McFarland composition “Daily,” & Duranice Pace’s songwriting contribution “Finally” are two excellent examples. “It’s My Time To Be Blessed” reflects the extreme best of all of TAPS’ lead vocal talents. For those who want fundamentally sound old school church service, “Jesus Will (Do It Again)” will fully supply those needs.
Along with the absolute thrillers, there are minor letdowns I have with Access Granted. “Someday”(written by gospel veteran Bishop Leonard S. Scott) is a well intentioned piece but somehow does not flow with the rest of TAPS live program. Then there is “If I Be Lifted Up” has TAPS’ vocal enthusiasm but unfortunately is somewhat stripped on this studio bonu
s track.
Overall, any access into a TAPS experience is well worth the listen, including Access Granted. Their unwavering perseverance to serve the body of Christ and their decision to not pursue their dream careers from childhood is contemporary gospel’s gain.
Peggy Oliver
The Urban Music Scene