There are a good number of classic Christian albums and Rewind aims to give them a shout out.
WORLD’S MIDNIGHT: Paradise
The 80s saw many fine British Funk groups like I-Level, Central Line, Heatwave and Linx. One of such fine acts was Paradise, who became the leading British christian group, producing some beautiful Funk, and here I highlight their 1982 album, World’s Midnight (Pilgrim Records, 1982).
Like many Funk groups at the time, Paradise was a large band comprising of several members including lead vocalist Doug Williams (who now pastors Emmanuel Community Church International in London), co-lead vocalist Paul Johnson, whose smooth falsetto caused the group to be likened to Earth Wind & Fire, and the Edwards brothers Phil, Junior (founding members) & Karl.
World’s Midnight was their second album and, in my view, their best. It delivered sounds popular with the leading bands of the day – GQ, Kool & The Gang, Delegation – but clearly conveyed a gospel message. The title track “World’s Midnight” is a rich, funky uptempo masterpiece which warns that tomorrow isn’t promised and emphasises the importance being ready for the end of the world – trust in God or pay the price. With his trademark falsetto, Paul Johnson leads on the equally upbeat “Here And Now”, which encourages the listener to examine the condition of their heart (or attitude) towards God – it appears to be based on Proverbs 4:23. A similar theme is followed in “Life Assurance” which presents the message of the gospel over dynamic beats and a guitar sequence that is reminiscent of the 1980 Irene Cara hit “Fame” – it’s an excellent piece with a beautiful xylophone solo. The Funk groove continues with “Stop And Think” which talks about the need to reflect on one’s life in light of an unknown tomorrow. There is also “Success” which has a Bar-Kays vibe and proclaims that righteousness defines success, and a slower paced “I’m Going Away” with a groove quite similar to the Earth, Wind & Fire sound – it focuses on the hope of a better place once life here is over.
The content and quality of this album bear witness to the fact that Paradise was a very talented band that could hold it’s own against any of the funk bands of its time. Their message was clearly a Christian one, but at the same time they found a way to attract those outside the church with their funky sound, and though this is now a classic album, it is still well able to attract the un-churched today. Please select videos below to sample their music.
