Bishop Larry D. Trotter unveils his own Utopia record label by offering a fifteen-track traditional set complete with church-rooted choir songs and traditional sounds, with the occasional high-energy contemporary detour.

The Next Dimension is joy in listening, with hefty contributions from longtime collaborator Rick Robinson and producer/songwriter VaShawn Mitchell. Recorded live at Sweet Holy Spirit Full Gospel Baptist Church in Chicago, the choir’s tone is rich and full, with an abundance of standout bandwork.

“Come On Zion” from T. Rasean Buckley falls into that contemporary category, with near-funk brass and heavy percussion pushing the song into memory as Buckley’s lead and choir swing with “Holy Ghost cha-cha” and move from modulation to modulation.

“He Cares” from the pen of Rick Robinson features spoken word from Trotter and lead vocals from Markeyta Sconiers. It’s a balladic number that focuses on the overwhelming comfort and care that Jesus offers us. The melody, chord changes and soft vibe of the song fit the beautiful lyrics.

There’s straight out traditional stomps too, with the fast-paced drive of “Lift The Lord Jesus” and Mitchell’s organ-blessed, praising choir romp, “God Is Great” leading the way.

Another choice cut is the uptempo “Harvest” which has the duo of Elder Patrick Winfield and Candace Hunley trading enthusiastic lead vocals about the promises of God over strong bass and synth beds with call and response choir lines.

They say that you can never quite get enough of that Chicago Gospel sound. There’s proof of that in The Next Dimension.