Through music, conversation and films, Spiritual Helpline celebrates the sacred sounds of tradition bearers in the South, and beyond.
Thomas Rhyant, Jr. is a Charlotte, NC based gospel singer, guitarist and composer. Raised in Florida, he came up in his father’s quartet, The Rhyant Brothers, and years of touring built his reputation among the greats. His prowess for vocals and nimble acoustic guitar work are clearly felt in his touring tribute to Sam Cooke, whom he claims as his greatest influence.
“Love Lifted Me” was cut in a matter of a few hours, with most selections being first takes. Listeners will enjoy the beautiful treatment of orchestra (courtesy Spacebomb Records and conductor Trey Pollard) and special guests including Michael Libramento, Spencer Tweedy and Matthew McCaughan on an otherwise stripped down acoustic “Sunday Night Gospel” record.
Thomas Rhyant, Jr.
“Love Lifted Me” | SH002
Recorded July 8th & 9th, 2020 at Betty's, Chapel Hill N.C.
Engineered by Saman Khoujinian | Additional Engineering by Thom Schick & Alli Rogers
Mixed by Jon Ashley | Mastered by Evan Bradford
Photography by Derrick Beasley | Layout & Design by T. Warren Parker
Produced by Phil Cook
SH002//WH060
The Branchettes
“Stayed Prayed Up” | SH001
Recorded Live at Longbranch Disciples Of Christ Church in Newton Grove, NC on April the 6th, 2019. Co-Release with WarHen Records
12' vinyl record plus 16 page full color 8"x8" booklet
Limited Pressing of 300 LPs
Engineering, Mixing and Mastering - Chris Boerner
Photography by Steve Mann, D.L. Anderson
Produced by Phil Cook
SH001/WH040
After a nearly 50-year calling of singing gospel music, The Branchettes gave a live concert in 2019—the first live album in the band’s storied career. Featuring vocals from Lena Mae Perry, keys from Wilbur Tharpe, and harmony by Angela Kent, the nine songs that appear transport the listener right inside the walls of Longbranch Disciples of Christ Church.
There’s good news and great music out there. Spiritual Helpline is here to share it.
Making music and making a life are one in the same in this celebratory documentary about a legendary North Carolina “church gospel noisy crew” and their 82-year-old matron who’s powerful testimony is only bested by her mighty voice.