First Call Releases New EP, 'Second Birth'

First Call
First Call's "Second Birth" is very much a family affair. |

The anticipated new EP, "Second Birth," from Grammy-nominated First Call was released last Friday, in a process that the group say has become very much a family affair.

Melodie Tunney's husband, Dick, was credited for producing four of the songs, while her daughter took care of the cover art. On the other hand, Bonnie Keen's husband, Brent, was responsible for the two other songs. Marty McCall's wife, Vickie, launched the website.

They also tapped their friend, Travis Cottrell, for the vocal arrangements.

McCall explained that when they planned "Second Birth," they decided to come out of their comfort zones to make a very different music than they were used to.

He said, "We chose two fan favorites along with four worship songs, including a song we had previously recorded but never released. I'm particularly thrilled to share Travis Cottrell's spectacular arrangement of the spiritual, 'Wade In The Water.' Fans who enjoy the intricate, vocal-gymnastics, a cappella moments are going to love it!"

For her part, Keen said that the process in producing "Second Birth" was in itself an experience.

"We sang background vocals on a lot of these songs, and have toured with many of these artists, she said. "It was truly overwhelming in the best sense of the word. Our cell phones were blowing up with fans and friends sharing the moment, watching online or in the audience."

Tunney added that the support they got online was what made First Call decide to make the EP, "Second Birth."

"We determined to move ahead with the EP, but with one caveat: we would produce this project with no expectations other than to make the music available," she added.

For further information about First Call and its new EP, "Second Birth," visit the group's official website.