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 Songs 4 Worship: Gospel - Soul Enter the Time Life compilation Songs 4 Worship: Soul which takes many current and soon-to-be R&B legends and fits them with worship classics. Such a modern day undertaking, by sheer nature of the concept, is worth a serious listen.  The fourteen-track project sees production from R&B historian and reissue producer David Nathan as well as Preston Glass, whose credits include work with Aretha Franklin, Kenny G, Natalie Cole, and Earth, Wind, and Fire. This combination gives the album an authentically classic R&B feel, and creates a unique window through which to view these fourteen worship classics.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. Bryson and Belle partner on the Richard Smallwood anthem "Total Praise". Freddie Jackson's double duty starts with a cover of Andrae Crouch's "My Tribute", a duet with Melba Moore. However, it's his cover of the Deniece Williams-penned "God Is Amazing" that could get the nod as the standout cut of the album. Few men can adequately perform a song originally written for a female vocalist but Jackson makes the song his own with an arrangement that will garner several repeat spins. Sprinkled amid the classic songs are original pieces that find their place that are within this weighty collection of songs. Brian McKnight offers the encouraging and socially relevant "You're Gonna Make It", adding a touch of modern R&B to this classic flavored album. Ruben Studdard's heartfelt "Holding On To You Lord" is another track to look out for that is musically reminiscent of the early Commissioned days. The cover-filled album offers other unique presentations including Evelyn "Champagne" King's cover of "Open My Heart" and Jody Watley's cover of "Heaven Help Us All". All in all, the mere concept of this album reminds us that regardless of your genre of music, everyone deserves the opportunity to offer praise. These legends have praise to offer and Songs 4 Worship to encourage the soul.
Email This To A Friend Time Life / Integrity — reviewed by Gerard Bonner —
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