‘Sincere’ is a word meaning “genuine, real, or real.” And with a bit of ingenuity, a South Florida-based, gospel-neo-soul-rock group, has taken the moniker ‘Sensere’ to describe themselves and their musical journey. James E. Wright III founded the group in 2003 and has ingeniously fused an 11-member ensemble of talented vocalists and musicians — collectively intent on making a “joyful noise.”
Sensere’s newest CD, “The Soul of Future Worship Vol. I,” has received accolades from music critiques and fans from coast to coast. But what makes this group unique and in our estimation, head and shoulders above many other gospel groups, is their ability to combine old school vocal techniques with innovative instrumental arrangements. In fact, if you listen to them closely, you will sometimes believe that you’re hearing The Mighty Clouds of Joy, Earth, Wind & Fire and The Temptations — all at the same time. Yes, they are The Sounds of Philadelphia and Motown Records but with the distinctive beat and message of Christian praise and worship. Wright says their mission is to serve as “ambassadors of Christ, to bring the lost back to God and to be gentlemen in every facet of their work, lives and performance.”
We are “family”
Smooth as silk, Dwayne Charlton still sings with members of his family on Sunday’s and shares lead vocalist assignments with Terrell Terry and Brian Williams. Wright, the group’s eclectic vocalist/producer whose talents belie his age, sings background. They are joined by a band that covers strings, brass, drums and keyboards and whose members include: Wildmayer Marcelin, Timothy Wimberly, Jermaine Dean, Darryll Efford, Clinton Cornish and Terrance McClain. Their ages range from 19 to 32. Eddie Pugh serves as their business manager and mentor and has proven that he has an eye for talent, having worked for WEA Distribution, Warner Brothers, Columbia Records and with artists from Donna Summer to Parliament and the Rolling Stones.
While the group was founded in 2003, Wright, who also arranges and plays several instruments, went out in 2009 to put together a new band. So far, the results have been superb.
“We’re partners in this journey and everyone has input,” he said. “This is not about fame — it’s about hope and directing light to [God’s] people that [God] is entrusting to us through song.”
Sensere recently performed at Jazz in the Gardens and was the first gospel group in the history of the annual event. As the summer approaches, they will be on the road bringing crowds to their feet as they bear witness to their faith.
For more information about Sensere, call Pugh at 954-243-1684.
By D. Kevin McNeir
kmcneir@miamitimesonline.com
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