
Hip Hop Column Freestylin' (Recession Proof Rapper)
Various Artists Hip Hope 2009
Gotee's Hip Hope CD's have become a fixture over the years. With Hip Hope 2009, DJ Maj serves as A&R Director; give him credit for assembling a great cast of artists. The subject of the songs range from serious (self-mutilation) to the fun... Full review
Vicki Yohe Reveal Your Glory: Live From the Cathedral
The album, in trademark Vicki Yohe fashion, is chock full of genuine and memorable moments. She teams with Anthony Evans on "One Moment", creating a nearly 10 minute presentation that is timeless. This song is indicative of the vibe of the album, which frequently trades traditional time limits in favor of the.... Full review (with audio clips)
Bishop Eddie Long and Friends The Kingdom, Vol. 1, Featuring GW's
Tye Tribbett guests on "Down with the King", a song with a retro-Hip Hop vibe. Tribbett does his best to recall the vibe of Slick Rick and other storytellers of the 80's and 90 to help accent this banger. On, "God Has Brought Has Through", the GW's continue the.... Full review
Free Chapel featuring Ricardo Sanchez Power of the Cross, Live at Free Chapel
"Broken the Chains" is a song that will frequent the play lists of praise bands and will be the signature theme of youth camps everywhere, with its driving guitar and great freedom-focused lyrics. And you can never go wrong with a "Oh oo whoa oh" chorus... Full review
Bishop Larry D. Trotter & Sweet Holy Spirit Combined Choirs I Still Believe
After a four-year recording hiatus that saw Bishop Larry D. Trotter endure a near Job-like experience, he and his choir return with their seventh and most powerful album I Still Believe. Fifteen tracks strong, Trotter and Sweet Holy Spirit present an album full of encouragement and empowerment designed to strength the faith of the listener during challenging seasons.... Full review
Danny Eason & Abundant Life Montreal Endurance
There's no shortage of head-nodding jams on this effort. From the album's leadoff cut "Good Time" to "Bless His Name", Danny Eason and Abundant Life keep the party moving with high octane praise jams. The infectious "Don't Give Up" may seem familiar, as it was first.... Full review
Rev. Timothy Wright
The 18-tracks include some of his time-honored classics and our favorite gospel choir selections, such as "Who's On The Lord's Side," with the Timothy Wright Concert Choir which reached #3 on the Billboard Top Gospel Chart, the matter-of-fact "Trouble Don't Last Always," and the.... Full review
George Huff
From the first note of this effort, it becomes abundantly clear that George Huff has a new vocal confidence and command in his presentation. Grasping a more assertive posture, Huff has found his voice and sings with a newfound authority. Producer Aaron Lindsey's influence shines on.... Full review
Braille Cloud Nineteen
Braille breaks it down real heavy on "From the Pulpit", letting rappers now that they are all preachers whether they are preaching the wrong thing or the Truth of the Word. He also speaks to believers, encouraging them to pray and encourage pastors, but not to.... Full review
Greg O'Quin & iPraise After The Storm
An enduring strength of Greg O'Quin's writing and presentation is his ability to pierce the heart with a relevant ballad. Once again, O'Quin delivers, this time with the touching "Convinced", "Breakthru", and "Survivor", which is the next chapter to O'Quin's lasting hit "I Told The Storm". Urban worship is...
Yunek Exodus: Three Seventeen
It's a special moment to find a female vocalist who can successfully balance singing, rapping, and effective songwriting into a solid presentation. Yunek does it all. A gifted vocalist and songwriter, she willingly shares her story in her debut project titled Exodus: Three Seventeen... Full review (with audio clips)
Lisa McClendon Reality
Known for a "behind the curtain" perspective in her songwriting, McClendon delivers a home run, combining relevance with accessibility in both her approach and presentation. From the empowering "ImmaBeMe" to "Who I Am", McClendon encourages all to find comfort in the beauty of their individual creation. "Thank You" is a mid-summer groove that.... Full review
Various Artists Songs 4 Worship: Soul
Peabo Bryson, Regina Belle, and Freddie Jackson each have the honor of singing two selections on this project. Bryson does a stellar job with his cover of the Darlene Zschech classic "Shout To The Lord". Meanwhile, Belle, no stranger to the gospel genre, sinks her teeth into "Grateful", originally performed by Hezekiah Walker and LFC.... Full review
The Supreme Angels Reloaded
The Supreme Angels' version of "What's The Matter with Jesus" offers a nice zest to the former versions we've become accustomed to. Again, Maurice Robinson's warm vocals take center stage on lead but the remaining Angels voices provide a cheery undercurrent to bring the selection home.... Full review
Kim Burrell No Ways Tired
As one can imagine, a traditional hymn travelling through the Kim Burrell zip code is an event of seismic proportions. Consequently, Burrell adds all sorts of color and life to several classic hymns including "What A Friend We Have In Jesus", the jazzy "Just As I Am", and the infectious "My Faith Looks Up To Thee". In addition to hymns, Burrell masterfully covers other musical classics such as... Full review (with audio clips)
Dorothy Norwood 50 Years: It's Been Worth It All
The 13-selection project includes original material by Dorothy Norwood but also some of her classic tunes also, such as "Victory Is Mine." On this current offering, Norwood linked up with the incomparable Ricky Dillard and New Generation.... Full review
God's Image
Well written and expertly presented, this track is a definite keeper. Check out other contagious tracks like "I Promise" and "Get Up".
Vocal excellence is another strong element of this effort. Check out the a capella "Thank You", which showcases the clear and air-tight harmonies... Full review
Smokie Norful Live
For those who especially appreciate Smokie Norful accompanied simply by piano, "Dear God" is just the song. It could be considered a thematic and musical companion piece to his hit,"I Need You Now", as he prayerfully puts the emphasis on the need for His guidance...
Donnie McClurkin We All Are One (Live in Detroit)
This effort has no shortage of impressive vocalists lending their gifts. Karen Clark-Sheard partners with Donnie McClurkin on the powerful and moving lead radio single "Wait On The Lord". The mid-tempo track "When You Love" sees the all-star combination of. ... Full review
Creflo Dollar Presents.... Heart of God: CHANGE
You could call Heart of God, CHANGE a showcase of the diversity and the depth of artistry that rest under the auspices of Creflo Dollar's Arrow Records. Featuring numerous artists who deliver their praise in various styles, the project...
Israel Houghton The Power Of One
An avid songwriter, producer, and instrumentalist, Israel Houghton demonstrates each of these gifts throughout the project, penning or co-writing nearly every song. While New Breed stands aside for the time being, Houghton still features familiar talents and colleagues to give the album a familiar yet fresh feel. Longtime music director Aaron Lindsay lends his talents, co-writing five of the. ... Full review
Various Artists Songs 4 Worship: Gospel - Friend of God
The Songs 4 Worship series from Time Life has been a staple for years, providing fans with a handy means of bringing their favorite worship songs together. Now with Songs 4 Worship: Gospel: Friend of God, the series expands to deliver a set of some of the most beloved vertically-directed music from the Gospel world. ... Full review
Various Artists CompassionArt
High energy is a good phrase to describe "Shout Praise" featuring Israel Houghton, Darlene Zschech and the Lakewood Church Choir. The Lakewood choir also provide backing vocals on the Martin Smith and CeCe Winans' led, "Fill My Cup", a midtempo composition ... Full review
Kerry Norton The Promises Will Come To Pass
Beginning with "Lord I Lift Your Name on High", with its blend of saxophone and vocal motifs from the background singers, to the original "Favorite Child of God", highlighted by Kerry Norton's warm tenor vocals, the vibe is uplifting ... Full review (with audio clips)
James Ingram Stand (In The Light)
From start to finish, the album features an all-star lineup of producers and writers that bring Ingram's heart for God to the forefront. Five-time Dove-award winning producer Keith Thomas handles the lion's share of the production responsibilities for the album, producing four of the project's ten tracks. Thomas lends his touch to the reflective... Full review
Freddy Rodriguez Light In The Darkness
"Nothing Compares to Your Love", written by Rodriguez and Michael Gungor, is a upbeat song that should capture the hearts of many, with its musical arrangement reminiscent of Hillsongs United, and vocal arrangements in vein of something that Israel and New Breed might do. It is also perfect for those who love to jump during song services. Rodriguez delivers the driving "We Are Champions", song of victory and expressive of being strong in Christ...
DJ Morph Mixtape - International
DJ Morph releases a new mixtape that is truly representative of the multi-faceted Christian Hip Hop genre. I wouldn't be surprised if those who are only bangin' secular Hip Hop will be drawn in with one good listen. Producers include Tony Stone and 19-year old sensation, G Styles... Full review
Donald Lawrence & Co. The Law of Confession, Part I
Couple the incredible lyrical content with fresh, original, and diverse musical arrangements and you have the formula for an epic release. From the album's majestic opening "The Word of the Lord" to the...
Stephen Hurd Times of Refreshing
The standout track on this project is "Amazing", written by Justin Savage. With its soft rock edge and beautiful vocal arrangements, it is neither too complicated nor too wordy, making it very accessible. The song expresses a vision of people of various backgrounds... Full review
WOW Gospel 2009
WOW Gospel has been a staple of the Gospel compilation circuit for so long now, it's easy to under appreciate its strength. With the 2009 version as strong as ever, fans from across the country, indeed, from across the world, will be flocking to this 2-disc set, which pulls the best of the best from across...
Micah Stampley Ransomed
Micah Stampley brings his A-game with beautiful "How Great You Are" and the free-flowing, "Lend Your Song to Me". The latter features worship leader Hector Soto on the reprise and things go up a notch as they challenge believers to go to a place in worship that.... Full review
Crystal Aikin
"Sunday Best" host Kirk Franklin lends his pen, vocalists, and production hat to the gem "A Song About Jesus", which is certain to be a classic.
The PAJAM team of J. Moss and Paul D. Allen handle the cleverly written "What If...(He Said No)", while Gerald Haddon masterfully...
Shari Addison
Shari Addison's 10-track debut comes chock full of powerhouse production, masterful writing, and awesome vocal delivery that is more indicative of a musical veteran rather than a new artist. Super producer Donald Lawrence lends his genius to "One More Sunny Day", a churchy ballad that flawlessly blends Lawrence's pen with Addison's voice...
Kevin Levar & One Sound Let's Come Together
Kevin Levar sings with conviction, evident on such songs as the powerful ballad, "Here I Am" and the Latin calypso, "My Everything". His tenor vocals shine throughout and there is evident joy. "Hiding Place" is a song of praise that brings joy and jubilation with.... Full review
Lecrae Rebel
As an avid student and intellectual, Lecrae's lyrical depth shines as bright as his musical presentation and lyrical delivery. From his creative depiction of the album's title track to the ever-popular subject of "Change", the emcee takes .... Full review
Feature: Christmas Reviews

Christmas albums are here, and we've got the reviews. Check out the season's Gospel offerings, from the traditional to the contemporary. And be sure to keep checking back as more are added.... Full review
Kierra Sheard Bold Right Life
Kierra Sheard's growth and ability to tackle different styles with authenticity is evident as she wonderfully sings the pop/rock ballad, "Invisible". Gerald Haddon produces this sure-fire hit while he and his wife Tammi share co-writing duties.... Full review
Papa San Higher Heights
Papa San takes this effort to showcase the diversity in both his repertoire and delivery style. From the hardcore dancehall reggae vibe of "No Other Way" to the more traditional reggae styling of "Africa Unite", Papa San presents the inspirational message of God's love and mercy... Full review
Big AL The Opening Act
"Get Low" has that down south feel with Big AL using the Autotone for his verse while Al-Bold and SaeLah each spit some memorable bars. The song title references a clever calling for people to stay humble and on their knees... Full review
Hezekiah Walker & LFC Souled Out
Running twelve tracks deep, Walker and LFC return with their trademark New York funk coupled with some new twists and turns. Famed producer Donald Lawrence returns to head the production efforts, handling eleven of the album's twelve tracks. Walker gets help from other industry friends who lend their talents to the effort.
Labelmate Marvin Sapp and DJ Rogers, Sr. lend their vocals to the urban ballad, "God Favored Me, Part II". In addition...
SYD The Hunger's Back
"The New Fastness" is a dance track that could go from the club to "America's Best Dance Crew" with a mass appeal that doesn't forsake SYD's focus on preaching the Gospel. The party continues with "It's Like Whoa" featuring Promises and SYD's bilingual labelmate Carlito P who, of course, spits his bars in Spanish... Full review
Kurt Carr Just The Beginning
While Kurt Carr's veteran status would seem to contradict the album's title, he has made some new moves with this effort, representing a new beginning. For one, the album marks the first on his new imprint, Kurt Carr Gospel. In addition, he's added several new singers...
Mary Mary The Sound
The 12-track offering from Mary Mary sees the dynamic duo continue to develop musically and lyrically. They continue their career-long production partnership with Warryn Campbell who handles all production. In addition, both Erica and Tina are avid songwriters and they exercise that gift throughout the effort, as they wrote nearly...
The Warriors No Limits
Every man gets to a point when he questions himself; one day he turns around and has an epiphany that where he is, is not where he is supposed to be. He has to decide if he will make a U-turn to God to get his act together. This is the message of "Man I'm Supposed 2 Be," a tune any child of God can relate to. Switching gears a bit, the brothers take ... Full review
Sean Simmonds It's Over
Great song arrangements and clever lyrical presentations mark the project. The infectious title track embodies the spirit of the album, which is designed to remind all that they have victory in Christ over all obstacles and indeed, in Him, are overcomers in all of life's struggles. Sean Simmonds' clever wordplay is evident on tracks such as "The Way" ... Full review
Various Artists Gotta Have Gospel 6!
Hard to believe that it's been six years already! Gotta Have Gospel! 6 brings on the music once again, and this time it's a combo of audio (2 discs) and video (1 disc), making it a veritable pot pourri of smash hits that have been receiving heavy spins on radio and video shows. With a combination of gold- and platinum-selling artists...
Beckah Shae Joy
Things take off with the finger-snapping, "Faith Is", a song expressing the joy of seeing the great miracles God does everyday and Shae's desire to take faith steps.
The bass kicks on the head-nodding song of praise "Yeshua" before Shae slows down the tempo a little on "Holy Spirit". Any of these ... Full review
Take 6 The Standard
The album is chock full of notable collaborations. From the historic partnership with Ella Fitzgerald on "A Tisket A Tasket" to the fun and contagious Nat King Cole-penned classic "Straighten Up and Fly Right" featuring George Benson, the album is wildly steeped in moments of musical genius. Aaron Neville joins the fray... Full review
Group 1 Crew Ordinary Dreamers
Lead single "Keys to the Kingdom" is a beautifully-written gem with a hip hop vibe that features Manwell and Pablo up front. On the first album, Group 1 Crew brought "I Have A Dream"; now they drop the followup, "I Had A Dream" and it is a definite banger... Full review
Various Artists WOW Gospel Essentials - All-Time Favorite Songs
The WOW Gospel brand is back, this time in a condensed format, highlighting the biggest Gospel hits of the past decade. WOW Gospel Essentials - All-Time Favorite Songs offers twelve such mega-hits, the songs running the gamut from traditional to contemporary, from choir smash to solo triumph... Full review with VIDEO
Applejaxx Databass - The Mixtape
Applejaxx's mixtape Databass is chock full of dope beats that brings the Gospel into the "mainframe" of the world. His skills as an emcee have come up, and he enlists help from his Fadacy cohorts, Tonéx, Nelly B and others.. Full review
Jason Champion Reflections
As if that's not enough, Champion has several major players lending their talents to the project. Warryn Campbell produces and co-writes seven of the album's ten tracks. Impressively, Campbell stays true to Champion's vision, producing authentic soul music that... Full review
Euclid Gray Unleashed
"You Know I Love Jesus" is a funky Rhythm and Praise song that features Euclid's sister Monica. On this song the duo deliver pleasant vocals proclaiming their willingness to do the will of God. "Let Me Praise Him" is a true hand-clapping... Full review
VIP Mass Choir featuring John P. Kee Live in Miami (Yes We Can)
Pastor Kee's aggregations have never been short of talented lead vocalists and this effort continues to reflect that truth. Maranda Curtis lends her standout vocals to "Be Glorified" and the praise groove "I Love You, Lord I Do", while New Life veteran Lowell Pye ... Full review
Deitrick Haddon Revealed
Deitrick Haddon continues to partner with the production team of Tim & Bob on the project. In addition, he enlists an all-star production team to take things in a new musical direction. Amongst the bevy of producers are the famed Percy Bady, who handles... Full review
Wilbur Belton Great and Mighty
Wilbur Belton pens nearly half of the songs, while lending his lead vocals to three of the album's tracks. He navigates the LADWEC aggregation through varying styles of Sunday morning presentations, keeping emphasis on the power of the message of the Savior's majesty while encouraging... Full review
The Sensational Nightingales The Gales
The Nightingales' newest 12-track project which is simple titled The Gales doesn't stray from the traditional quartet style that has made them so well-known. The album showcases a great balance of ... Full review
Cy Circus World Event : The Ringleader
"The Circus Tour" is a superbly catchy tune that is destined to pique the interest of children and the young at heart. The circus Cy refers to is sin, as explained by guest emcees R Swift, J Johnson (formerly J. Silas) and others... Full review
Dave Hollister Witness Protection
"You Are" is a beautiful song of adoration and will surely be sung in churches, with its simple lyrics and musical arrangements. The intensity of worship picks up with "Just Worship". With its simple chorus, Dave Hollister leads people into the presence of God... Full review
Cheryl James & V.O.W. Live
The common thread throughout this entire presentation is the choir's connected vocals. Preferring substance over vocal acrobatics, VOW works hard to present clever yet sound vocal harmonies that keeps the listener's attention on the message. With that... Full review
Mic Blu BLU.Love.Hate
From start to finish, Mic Blu deftly blends skillful musical presentation with relevant and challenging messages applicable to all who will listen. Rather than focusing on a one-dimensional presentation, Blu presents music that addresses both spiritual and practical life issues, supplying a diversity of subject matter that are found in few efforts in the... Full review
The UAB Gospel Choir Gospel 101: Go Dominate!
Under the direction of Kevin Turner, the 125-voice collegiate collective from UAB is on fire from beginning to end, layering their abundant youthful energy over a set of impressive songs and innovate arrangements. You can't miss the concert DVD either, as it comes packaged with the project... Full review
Erick Matthews Life Captured
On "Wilderness", Matthews tells of his spiritual journey, offering encouragement to others in so doing. With a reggae-influenced track and a catchy vocal chorus, the mid-tempo groove showcases the best of the artists' abilities, both musical and lyrical. Aaron Gordon Jr. lends his guitar stylings to the... Full review
E.D. Mondainé & Belief Everything Must Change
Apostle E.D. Mondainé & Belief take you to a musical destination perhaps a little beyond your familiar territory. As a jazz ensemble who sing the praises of God, they show their prowess on Everything Must Change. Mondainé's baritone weaves through the piano and trumpet... Full review
21:03 Total Attention
Now ready to minister to a broader audience and with an ability to show more dimensions, the 21:03 guys (Torrence, Evin and Jo 'Rel) keep the hard-hitting dance tracks and soulful ballads, but add more pop-edged songs, songs with churchy vamps and small hint of even... Prince. Full review
Toby Mac Alive and Transported
Alive and Transported will not disappoint Toby Mac fans and most likely gain him new ones. With his Diverse City Band, he revisits his major hits, going back as far as his dcTalk days. Nirva Dorsaint-Ready is featured prominently on the infectious... Full review
T. Bizzy
In the spirit of many other super producers, T. Bizzy steps from behind the mix board and into the booth to drop his long anticipated self-titled release. This 17-track effort submits some of the most hardcore urban offerings found in any secular or gospel arena with tracks that are bound... Full review
Various Artists T.R.O.N.
This digitally-released project features a whopping 20 tracks filled with some of the hottest music to date from the Nureau camp. Much as the album’s name suggests, this is perhaps the most comprehensive and exhaustive presentation of the depth... Full review
Regina Belle Love Forever Shines
Not surprisingly, Regina Belle has the ability to deftly fit into any musical styling. From traditional to ballads to urban stylings, Belle can successfully transform as though she were a vocal... Full review
Ashmont Hill
"Praise Thy Name", written by Phil Thompson, showcases their tight harmonies as they direct their worship vertical. Rising singer and vocal arranger, Calvin Nowell along with Tony Sutherland write "A Song of Glory", another worship offering with a light vibe.... Full review
The Murrills Family Prayer
Prime among the cuts on the project is "Family (There's A Healing)", a slow-tempo'd encourager featuring Donald Lawrence's patented spoken word renderings amidst the Murrill's harmonizing and occasional soaring solo lines. The song aims to bring together families suffering the pain of broken relationships. The theme of family reconciliation continues on...
Tye Tribbett & G.A. StandOUT
From lyrical substance to musical creativity, boldness has always been the trademark of Tye Tribbett and G.A., and perhaps no musical offering to date has had boldness stamped on it quite like this one, as Tribbett continues to reach into his musical bag of tricks to pull out absolute gems ...
Isaiah Thomas & E.O.P. The Greatest
There's no way that Isaiah Thomas couldn't lead his choir in an updated rendition of his Stellar award winning hit "I Will Bless the Lord" and the group doesn't disappoint with easily the most potent rendition of the single to date. Yet Thomas & E.O.P. don't solely rely on the strength of their .... Full review
Greg Drumwright A Long Time Comin'
From high-energy celebration to heartfelt worship, The Singers & Musicians ALIVE! successfully translate the spirit and heart of each Drumwright-penned track. The contagious energy of "In His Presence", "My Hope", and "The Citadel's Praise" is undeniable and will move you to.... Full review
Bryan Wilson A Second Coming
Songs range from the airy feel of the pseudo-title cut "A Second Coming (My Life)", which addresses the importance of being prepared for Christ's return, to the rhythmic slow-down of the soulfully-charged "Change In Me". On the mid-tempo "Still My Father/God's There", you can hear the recognizable phrasing.... Full review
Sharp Skills The Campaign
Guitars and the mid tempo "boom bip" are the backdrop of "Mountain Movement". Sharp Skills speaks to the obstacles and barriers in his way that they will move, with Christ at his side. Frequent collaborator, Soul P, guests on "Disciple's Burden", a chilled out cut about the cost of following Christ.... Full review
Aaron Sledge Da Light
Clever lyrics and butter background vocals dominate the inspirational, "Robbed". On "Hold On", an Eric Dawkins influence is clearly recognizable. Aaron Sledge's music has that R&B edge and vocals that, frankly, trump many of the artists in the mainstream side... Full review
Dorinda Clark-Cole Take It Back
The Rose of Gospel does it again! On her third solo project, Dorinda Clark-Cole loses no ground, opting instead to gain momentum in continuing the legacy of her late mother Dr. Mattie Moss Clark and in leaving an indelible mark together with her sisters.... Full review
Martha Munizzi Change The World
"Invincible God" is the right song to jump start anyone into praise. A powerful uptempo number, it's message is explanatory. "Dance" features Latin-styled horn arrangements and crazy vocal arrangement in the chorus, making it an infectious groove ...
Da'Quela Blue Sky
Da'Quela shines brightest on ballads. Darwin Hobbs joins her on "Never Too Far", and the two compliment each other well. On "Incredible", worship is the focus. CCM notable Andy Selby and Antonio Neal shared the pen in writing this gem, while Kyle Lovett plays the keys and handles programming. "Psalms 23" comes to life courtesy Selby's string arrangement, and breathy backing vocals.... Full review
CeCe Winans Thy Kingdom Come
CeCe Winans writes "Forever" (one of eight songs that she put pen to on the project), and delivers a heart-propelled praise session backed by a stellar vocal crew. Winans ad libs over their repeated phrasing ("forever and ever and ever"), declaring her intent to worship God for eternity... Full review
Dionne Warwick Why We Sing
Pulling from a diverse array of material, much of it beloved and familiar to Warwick from her family's deep church roots, music legend Dionne Warwick works with producers including BeBe Winans, Percy Bady, Gregory C. Curtis Sr. and.... Full review
Flame Our World Redeemed
Few lyricists would attempt to share such heavy subject matter throughout the course of an album. Yet Flame trades in common hip-hop vernacular for theological principles common to a good seminary course. Using a variety of infectious musical styles, Flame masterfully spits Biblical truth such that even the unbeliever will quickly take notice. From the introspective "See More Him" to the.... Full review
Canton Jones Kingdom Business
While Jones' southern roots run deep, the smooth vocalist readily shows his musical versatility with creative mid-tempo grooves and lyrics that display a heart full of purity and devotion towards the Father. Be sure to peep the creative "Hater Day" (produced by Antonio Neal) and.... Full review
James Fortune & FIYA The Transformation
Anaysha Figueroa takes the lead on "I Owe It All", a beautiful worship song takes on added sweetness with her vocal touch. Gene Moore Jr. adds his finesse on "Just to Worship" while Nakitta Clegg-Foxx brings her familiar tones to "I Wouldn't Know You".... Full review
IMAGE
"I Feel Good", the lead single, is rooted in the church sound. Close-knit harmonies and a syncopated rhythm underneath the vocal bed propel the cut into hand-tapping territory. On "Sunny Day", the feel-good vibes continue as the foursome sing the verse ...
Brent Jones and the TP Mobb The Ultimate Weekend
The Friday portion is filled with mellow urban grooves designed to foster relaxation after a busy week at the office. Naturally, the Saturday element features high energy, club-rockin' party jams intended to get your blood moving. Be sure to check out the candid "My Heart's Desire" and the reggae-tinged "The Lover", featuring... Full review
Jason Clayborn presents Thee Ensemble Music Word Tieology
Thee Ensemble continues to deliver on "I Am Yours", a ballad of worship in which they are careful not to overly complicate the arrangement, keeping the focus on God. Jason Clayborn leads the standout song of adoration, "I Worship You", backed by an amazing guitar solo from Mark Hamilton. Hearing is believing on the calypso-flavored, "Put On the Whole Armor" as ... Full review
Ricky Dillard and New G DVD: The 7th Episode: Live In Toronto
Recorded live at Rhema Christian Center in Toronto, Canada, this visual offering quickly makes one reminiscent of the days where choirs were structured like mass choirs versus today's current ensembles. With over 60 members strong, Ricky Dillard and New G manage to present each song with incredible energy and visual uniformity, showing that choral... Full review
JR Life By Stereo
The soft rock gem, "We Need You" is a song of desperation for God that takes a page out of DC Talk's book. Or even Coldplay's book. Impressive is the way J.R. goes into these different styles: it's authentic and true to the genre. "No Fear" is a gorgeous ballad ... Full review
RAS The Buzz Word
"Do Dem" is an infectious jam that has RAS trying his hand in a little dancehall, while he speaks of the joy of living for God. "He Aint Finished" is a head-nodder with a simple but potent boom bip. RAS shares... Full review
Jeff Majors Sacred Major 7th
Prime among the album's selections is "Beggar", the socially conscious lead single that is drawing attention not only for being the last recording featuring the late Gerald Levert, but for drawing attention to the plight of the homeless. The song came out of Major's meeting a homeless person on the street, and soon realizing that he was formerly a physics professor... Full review
MCBC Mass Choir No Other Name
On the midtempo "It Was You", produced by Michael Hill, the choir testifies en masse how God has always provided and supplied. Half way through the cut, the three choir sections split into an intricately and infectiously arranged weave of parts, making it an unforgettable expression of gratitude. Other notable songs are ... Full review (with audio clips)
Joi Marshall Testimony & Praise
"A House Divided" is a beautiful cut inspired by I Corinthians. In this neo-soul flavored song, Joi Marshall encourages saints of different spiritual backgrounds to come together in unity. On "I Needed", Marshall testifies how in seeking for comfort in various things she found God on that ... Full review
Wayne Stoddart Love Connections
"Move On" has that midtempo vibe that would fit well at a Reggae Sunsplash Festival, but would stick on because of its message. Dance and jump around on the infectious, "Reggae Rock", which leans more... Full review
The Washington Projects Commanders Of The Resistance
Each sibling takes the time to tackle relationship issues on "She Can't Love You" and "That Girl". "Outside Your Window" is a rock/pop ballad as WP encourage people to wakeup and do what they can to care for the next generation... Full review
Jerard Woods I Waited
Tying all of it together is the strength of Jerard Woods' musical selections. Woods shows himself to be an accomplished writer, writing or arranging six of the project's eleven tracks. The title track, featuring wife Jovaun Woods, and "Pray to Your God" are incredible cuts that deserve serious attention. Woods adds the icing to the album's cake... Full review
Joel Osteen presents Free To Worship
"Everywhere I Go" is an upbeat and fun song, written by Israel Houghton and Cyndi Cruse Ratliff, that will brings joy and hope to those who listen. Steve Crawford leads it with sheer passion and charisma. Houghton's "Still Standing" gets remixed a little... Full review
Deitrick Haddon presents Voices of Unity Together in Worship
For this session, Deitrick Haddon and VOU enlist some of the industry's greatest worship leaders to embark on a journey steeped in extreme worship. William Murphy III takes the lead with the mid-tempo "We Worship You", while newcomer Javen joins the session with... Full review
James Hall & Worship & Praise Live at Foxwoods
Not known for their collaborations, James Hall nevertheless orchestrates a dream partnership, as vocal powerhouse Nikki Ross joins Worship and Praise for "Nothing Shall Separate Me", and it lives up to the hype. Choir favorite Tunesha Crispell represents well on the John Peters penned "For The Lord Is Good"... Full review
Sound of the New Breed Kingdom
Take note of the powerful "Jesus Is". This song is great from Daniel Johnson's exhortations to Dakri Brown's lead to the rock-driven chorus. You can put this on repeat and worship with reckless abandon... Full review
Shei Atkins Girl Talk
A new dance anthem in the same vein as "Souljah Boy" and the "Cupid Shuffle" is introduced in the banger "J Walk". The difference here is that Shei Atkins wants to know who can walk like Jesus in their everyday walk. Clever! She doesn't forget... Full review
Kirk Franklin The Fight of My Life
In a case of art imitating life, Kirk Franklin highlights great moments of victory in "Declaration (This Is It!)" (sampling Kenny Loggins and Michael McDonald's hit), along with genuine moments of struggle on "How It Used To Be". Throughout the album, each song expresses the honest feelings of... Full review
BeBe Winans Cherch
Recorded live in his current home church, Faith Community Church in West Covina, California, BeBe Winans presents several old school hymns and spiritual songs that defined the early African-American church experience. Presented through his unique creative colander... Full review
Trin-I-tee 5:7 T57
Trin-I-tee 5:7 has no fear in tackling songs about the romantic relationships between men and women. "I Still Love You" shares the perspective of a brokenhearted woman who just can't get over her man. Merging a spiritual message over a classic soul sound, the song is cleverly penned and will find many women nodding heads... Full review & EXCLUSIVE AUDIO DOWNLOAD
Tracy Randall Sinners Have Souls Too
The title track, with its balladic elements and snaggy melody, points out that all of us are the beneficiaries of God's grace; not deserving of His love or His favor. The remix grooves to a heavier clap-echo beat. On the mid-tempo "He's Got All U Need", Tracy Randall showcases... Full review
Yolanda Adams What A Wonderful Time
Of the original tunes, Yolanda Adams co-writes the title cut "What a Wonderful Time" along with Maxx Frank. Can you say "Big Band-O-Rama"? Full swing orchestra in stride and horns sweeping through, the song ends almost as quickly as it starts. John "Jubu" Smith is featured on the acoustic guitar driven "Hold On", a year-round song with...
Lamar Campbell & Spirit of Praise New Song, New Sound
New song, New sound is a praise and worship offering, and serves up a musical dish that fans and followers have come to expect from the Indianapolis collective. Campbell leads vocally throughout the eleven song album, with Spirit of Praise rendering smoothly harmonized choir support. The album leads off with ... Full review
Mandisa True Beauty
The title track is a funky banger that speaks of the world's superficial view of beauty and how true beauty is what is inside a person. This could be an anthem for all women. Mandisa pays homage to the Negro Spiritual with a stirring remake of... Full review
Ambassador Bobby Jones Faith Unscripted
Check out the Clark Sisters' classic "You Brought the Sunshine" as crafted through the creative colander of Jones and company. Having Karen Clark-Sheard handling lead vocals while adding musical direction for the choir is a treat that is difficult to replicate in any other environment. The same can be said for the ... Full review
Sonya D. Johnson Worship From The Heart
The album's first track, "Be Still", features Sonya Johnson setting an atmosphere of worship through spoken word and beautiful singing over an organ and piano arrangement. Demonstrating her wide vocal range, she encourages ... Full review
Word of Life Christian Center Live From Hawaii
Not limited by mainland worship musical standards, Word of Life comfortably and confidently infuses Hawaiian flavor into their worship presentations. "Hawaiian Praise Drums (Seize Life Intro)" showcases the power of their drum presentations and could stand as its own piece, rather than an intro. However, it serves as an apposite lead in to the ... Full review
Shawn McLemore Sunday Morning: The Live Experience
Miss the good ole days of choir music, with a dominating B3 organ? Tired of "live" albums that are so overdubbed that it's basically studio? This is for you then.
Shawn McLemore steps in to bring a scaled down "sho nuff" church... Full review
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