Featuring Larry Carter, Kelton French, Point of Grace Praise Team
March 12, 2007
Reviewed by Jamin Tuttle

 

February in Indiana typically means cold temperatures, a little snow and--this year--some ice, so, when it came time to warm up a little, a night with Larry Carter’s blazing guitar is just the ticket.  So the place to be on February 10, 2007, was Madison, Indiana.

The heat started with the warm voice of Kelton French from Milton, Florida.  His short country set featured covers showing the inspirational side of Country mainstays Randy Travis, Joe Nichols, Brooks and Dunn, and others.  A rendition of Toby Keith’s “American Soldier,” complete with the stars and stripes in the background, closed out the 17 year-old French’s set.  With the vocal chops of a seasoned country vet, French is getting the attention of some Nashville producers.  It’ll be fun to see what God works out for this Apostolic who’s got the spirit to match his big boots and hat! 

The local Point of Grace Praise Team then opened with the high energy “Give Him the Glory” and kept the crowd excited with the arrival of Carter on a funky version of “Friend of God.”  Lead singer Adam Faulkner introduced Carter, who obliged by diving into a fiery solo to set the tone for the evening.  Carter took the crowd on a journey through his last few albums, threw a new song or two in the mix, and gave most folks exactly what they wanted--a whole lotta guitar. 

 

Carter shared his moving testimony before the simple “A Prayer Was All It Took.”  “Sunday School Girl” was a moving tribute to those kids who are a part of Sunday schools across the world with no support from their parents.  Many had tears in their eyes as Carter shared the story behind the song, which is based on a girl he met at a church while touring.  

No Carter concert would be complete without a couple of things taking place.  One of those was a pair of instrumentals that showcased the variety of styles he brings to his music, from a little country pickin’ to a blazing rock solo and subtle jazz lick.  All were on display this evening.  The night ended with “The Star Spangled Banner” and the other item you can’t have Larry Carter without--a rousing rendition of “When I Found Jesus I Lost the Blues,” which saw Carter joined again by the host church band and provided a rousing, inspiring finish to the night. 

 

The entire evening was filmed, including some fun outtakes, an interview (mostly just for laughs), with Carter and more.   It’s expected to be out on DVD and CD later this spring. 

© 2007, Jamin Tuttle

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Jamin Tuttle is the Youth Pastor at Point of Grace Family Praise Fellowship, but tried not to be the least bit biased in his review! J  He’s married to a beautiful wife and two wonderful kids, including the most recent arrival, Landon Wade, who’s now three months old.