Arden, North Carolina (April 28, 2023) — Continuing on with their second retrospective series of live recordings distributed exclusively to streaming platforms, Horizon Records’ The Talleys look back to nearly 20 years ago, when they first recorded an inspired weaving together of “High and Lifted Up” and the “Hallelujah Chorus” from G.F. Handel’s epic 18th century oratorio, “Messiah.”
With its brassy opening and propulsive rhythm, “High and Lifted Up” might seem like an unlikely candidate for such a treatment, yet as the reception of The Talleys’ first recording of the medley showed, Roger Talley’s arrangement binds the unexpected combination together seamlessly. Gliding effortlessly between unison passages and rich harmonies, the trio offers a simple, insistent distillation of the Gospel that bridges the centuries — and, as the reaction of the audience in this more recent recording proves, lifts listeners into the full measure of joy in its message.
“I’ve always loved many different musical styles,” notes Roger. “Handel’s ‘Hallelujah Chorus’ always intrigued me because of its complexity and joyous feeling. We recorded an album of praise music several years ago, and I combined it with ‘High and Lifted Up’ into a showstopper moment. I love that audiences still stood up even though our version is much more contemporary than Handel’s original version. It’s still to praise our Lord!”
Listen to “High And Lifted Up / Hallelujah Chorus” HERE.
About The Talleys
The Talleys began in 1984 and enjoyed many years of success, including a Dove® Award and numerous Singing News Fan Awards. Following a three-year hiatus, the Talleys began performing together in 1996 with the current lineup of Roger, wife Debra and daughter Lauren, and today the Talleys remain a mainstay of Christian music. The Talleys have enjoyed eleven number one songs, and have received numerous Singing News Fan Awards and Dove Award nominations. They are frequently recognized for their appearances on the Gaither Homecoming video series and concert tour, as well as In Touch with Dr. Charles Stanley and John Hagee Ministries. They have appeared on RFD-TV’s “The Music City Show,” and have toured overseas to Norway, Northern Ireland, Italy and South Africa.