Album Notes

Latin Gospel pioneers, Orchestra Ebenezer Ministry (OEM), continues to burn brightly the Caribbean torch of salvation. Executive Director José Diaz releases the third CD, entitled simply, OEM. The music of OEM is powerfully delivered by a band comprised of members who have faced terrible struggles and found redemption through the grace of Jesus Christ, bringing light into some of the darkest urban corners of Chicago and abroad. Watch for OEM this summer.

"Merging cultures into one seamless praise!"

Utilizing the vast array of polyrhythmic sounds native to their Puerto Rican descent, OEM delivers a combustible formula of salsa, and mambo, Latin jazz, son montuno and ballads. The polyrhythmic sounds create a perfect foil for the gospel-based lyrics sung both in Spanish and English. OEM, also features the group's unmistakable versions of songs by popular contemporary Christian artists, CARMAN and Andre Crouch, which further opens their crossover appeal in reaching a diverse audience of both Christian and secular listeners.

With few changes in personnel since their last CD, Battles of the Day, OEM maintains its successful formula of top notch players, high in musical proficiency, along with a flawless execution boasting a line of fiery horns and anchored by upright bass and piano. The traditional Afro-Cuban percussion section consists of congas, timbales, and bongo, all laced around a three-man vocal and chorus that effortlessly convey with clarity and conviction, the message of transforming redemption through salvation.

OEM features the Caribbean's brightest musical production talents in Puerto Rico - Julito Alvarado and Andy Guzman. Orchestration by Tommy Villariny, Andy Guzman and Frankie Nieves.

Songs: Mar del Olvido, After All, Me Liberto, Contigo Caminare, Rayos del Sol, Through it All, The River, Por el Camino Angosto.