History:

Maranatha was a collective of jazz, rock, and folk musicians from the Buffalo, New York area. The group’s origins lie during the height of the Jesus Revolution in the late 60’s through the early 70’s. Maranatha was led by Jack Ledwon. He was a local pianist and a pastor. The lineup also included Buffalo legend Tony Galla. Galla was a singer who released one of the most desired northern soul 45’s ever made on Swan Records. The group’s diversity is showcased in their only release “Maranatha” on Mark Records.  The date of the release is unknown but it was likely around 1974. Soul, rock, folk, and jazz influences are prevalent throughout the album with five originals being performed (four written by Ledwon and one by Galla). A full lineup of the band that performed on the album is provided below:

Tony Galla: Lead and Backing Vocals, Acoustic Rhythm Guitar (4?, 5?,10)

Jack Ledwon: Lead Vocals (1, 6), Piano (1, 2, 5, 7, 8, 10), Electric Piano (3, 5, 6), Arrangements

Denise Mack: Lead and Backing Vocals 

Alan Creech: Backing Vocals, Lead Vocals and Acoustic 12-String Guitar (4, 9) 

Jim Palys: Drums, Percussion

Linc Lackey: Bass Guitar

Dick Terranova: Lead and Rhythm Guitars, Slide Guitar (10)

Joe Kelly: Flute

Rich Bisesi: Vibraphone

Rachel Stahlka: Lead Vocals (4, 9)

Neal Hamlin: Lead Vocals (4, 9)

Review:

Maranatha (Mark Records, 1974?)

Rating: 5/10

Mediocre affair which is nearly split down the middle between meh and good. The opener “Maranatha” is over the top jazz where every member of the core band gets an instrumental break. The vocals are pretty weak on this track though. “Voice Of Jesus” is a good soulful track with a great vocal from Galla. “My Father’s House” is my favorite track on the album personally and features a great duet between Mack and Galla along with fun instrumental work. “Tired And Lonely” is a nifty track as well with just bass, piano and flute accompanying a wavering Mack. Pretty much the rest of the album isn’t very good save for the middle of the road “Someone”, which is definitely a rip-off of some hit (though I can’t put my finger on which one).