Monday, July 21, 2008

Ordinary life in this region is often overshadowed by the powerhouse of federal Washington. When we're focused on the horrors of war or the passions of politics, we may miss the everyday unsung heroes, simple pleasures and unique events that make up our corner of the country. In this occasional Page Three feature, photographer Joe Elbert roams the region to capture them on video.

After having "dealt with and been delivered from life's various circumstances," as an album note reads, the seven members of the District's Salvation Music Ministry felt called to spread the Gospel through funk-flavored, soul-stirring spirituals.

They grew up together and played in churches together. Since 1989, they've carried their message across the country. They've performed with CeCe and BeBe Winans and Kirk Franklin and recorded an album. They've been named best gospel group/duo at the Dream Network Music Competition on the Gospel Music Channel and runner-up in the Quaker Oats Washington-Baltimore Gospel Music Festival, hosted by Vickie Winans.

Members include vocalists Anthony White and Calvin Smalls, guitarist Leon McManus, drummer Joseph Sims III, keyboardists Andre Stephenson and Vincent Sims, and bass player Joseph Sims Jr.

Their next local performance is Aug. 2 at Gateway to Heaven, 1910 West Virginia Ave. NE, but you can also catch them at http://washingtonpost.com/AmericanShots.