Reading Time: 2 min read

4 out of 5 stars

For KING & COUNTRY, Tori Kelly & Kirk Franklin, "TOGETHER" [Photo Credit: Curb]Grammy-winning Christian artists For KING & COUNTRY, Tori Kelly & Kirk Franklin join forces for the hopeful, unifying single, “TOGETHER.”

“And if we fall, we will fall together / Together (together, together).” That’s definitely the spirit, and Australian-born, American-based Christian pop duo For KING & COUNTRY capture it perfectly on “TOGETHER.” Just to brush you up on the background of the duo, it’s comprised of two brothers, Joel Smallbone and Luke Smallbone.  Notably, they have a famous sister, Rebecca St. James.  Anyways, focusing on “TOGETHER,” the duo enlists some big-name friends for the assist on this comforting record for a pandemic, fellow Grammy winners Tori Kelly and Kirk Franklin.

From the start, “TOGETHER” is radiant; lovely production work to say the least.  Also, accompanying this thoughtful, uplifting gem, there is a moving music video. The first and second verses, performed by Luke Smallbone, are a bit more subtle compared to the what comes.  Even so, it’s fitting, and seems to be by design – you never want to show all of your cards early on. Afterward, Joel Smallbone takes the reins on the pre-chorus, providing a nice vocal contrast to his brother.  Both sing together on the chorus, excerpted earlier, which is quite powerful.  Honestly, even given its simplicity, it affects you the very first time you hear it.

Tori Kelly arrives on the second verse, delivering a more assertive performance than Luke does.  With “TOGETHER” featuring short verses, she makes the most of a few solo moments. She does go onto join Joel on the pre-chorus and the chorus.  Her voice sounds absolutely amazing, particularly the ad-libs.  Last but not least, the bridge is ‘da bomb’ featuring Kirk Franklin and choir.  As usual, Franklin serves in the ‘ministerial’ role.


Final Thoughts

The big takeaway from “TOGETHER” is simply is togetherness during adversity and tough times – “We are in this together.”

4 out of 5 stars


For KING & COUNTRY, Tori Kelly & Kirk Franklin • “TOGETHER” • Curb / Word Entertainment • Release: 5.1.20
Photo Credits: Curb / Word Entertainment
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the musical hype

the musical hype aka Brent Faulkner has earned Bachelor and Masters degrees in music (music Education, music theory/composition respectively). A multi-instrumentalist, he plays piano, trombone, and organ among numerous other instruments. He's a certified music educator, composer, and a freelance music journalist. Faulkner cites music and writing as two of the most important parts of his life. Notably, he's blessed with a great ear, possessing perfect pitch.

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