GospelFlava.com - Reviews - Bubby Fann and Unlimited Praise (Judah Prayze)

Bubby Fann and Unlimited Praise
Judah Prayze

Bubby Fann & Unlimited Praise are back on the scene with their sophomore release, Judah Prayze.

Their debut project from 2000 introduced us to this diverse 10-voice aggregation (see album review), impressing and making us anticipate this new release. What do they bring to the table this time around?

A quick glance at the album credits reveals much promise. Up and comer Richard "Big Rich" Wilson writes, produces and takes charge of keyboards on some cuts. The reknowned Clay Bogan III steps in to produce on occasion. Jerod Howard continues to maestro on organ and handles music arrangements.

Judah Prayze is a 14-track expedition that takes us to a number of places while bringing in a variety of UP's flava. The first half of the album is studio tracks, while the second half was recorded live in their hometown of Atlantic City, New Jersey.

Fann & UP are known for mixing things up a bit and they continue that on this album. The project begins with urban appeal and a strong message with "What About Your Soul". Uniquely crafted, the song features Fann in a spoken word/freestyle flow as he relays the importance of making decisions that impact on your eternal resting place. The vibe of the song switches mid-stream from urban groove to neo-soul, showing the glorious unpredictability that Fann & UP bring to the table.

Fann and crew also make you jam with the uptempo stylings of "After the Rain", "Miracles (Remix)" (with guest vocalist Terry Letman), and "You're My Everything". Each of these tracks are infectious and are guaranteed to be bumpin' in Gospel jeeps during this hot summer.

Fann wrote or co-wrote 12 of the songs on the project and allowed himself room for considerable creativity, both lyrically and musically. The infectious "Judah Prayze" revisits the neo-soul vibe and describes the type of praise that went forth as Joshua fought the battle of Jericho.

"Something to Shout About" takes us back to the showtunes and rock feel of the '50s complete with sweet instrumental offerings from Bill Williams (lead guitar) and Roy Richardson (saxophone).

"Victory" blends that special East Coast choir vibe with a heavy rock feel, the resultant mix telling us to celebrate the victory that we have through Jesus Christ.

Fann & UP present awesome ballads to balance the musical presentation of the project. "Everybody Oughta Know..." is a musical gem that features tight harmonies and tells of the need for everyone to know Jesus Christ. Fann enlists former Kurt Carr singer Troy Bright for lead vocals on "Grateful For Your Love". As usual, Bright delivers the goods as only he can.

More Bubby Fann

The Gospel ride is fueled by a hot-as-coals band that features blaring horns and extra percussion from Jeff Burnside. Expert in multiple schools of old-style funk, contemporary mixes and slower, smoother pushes, they do it all.....

Read the full album review.

Lyrically, Fann & UP make a major impact with strong messages. On "Time To Change", the message is that it's time to change the way that we're living to a manner that is pleasing to God. The song addresses liars, fornicators, and ministers who aren't impacting congregations. Then Fann goes on to express the current situations of some congregations which "lack conviction to live holy" and are filled with those who are "sanctimonious" and "sanctified bigots".

While the message is certainly straightforward and not for the weak at heart, the delivery is as compelling and serves as the aggregation's altar call.

With Judah Prayze, Fann & UP take their ministry to a new level with a compelling call to arms for the body of Christ. In-your-face in multiple ways, this sophomore release makes a major dent in the enemy's camp while strengthening every believer who listens.

Check it out and feel free to get your "Prayze" on.

Producers: Various album release date: June, 2002
Tyscot Records

— reviewed by Gerard Bonner —