Christopher Brinson and the Ensemble are back with their latest release, A Better Way. On this third release from this cooperative, Brinson et al. continue to succesfully blend their traditional flavor with an occasional urban twist.

The North Carolina native kicks off the project with the title cut that features assistance from Pastor Nancy Wilson. The leadoff track is one of those good ol' foot-stompin', hand-clappin' infectious songs that reminds us that Christ's earthly suffering was designed to give us a better way of life. The instrumental version of the cut is also featured on the album.

Perhaps the hallmark of any Chris Brinson album is an "in-your-face" message that others wouldn't be comfortable delivering. His debut project raised an eyebrow or two as he asked us "What if God is Unhappy with our Praise"? While he's not as direct on this project, he still has songs that causes you to consider your Christian walk and your current status.

"We Must Change (Lay Down)" is one of those songs that challenges the believer to change his or her walk, talk, and lifestyle and be willing to sacrifice our will for the will of Christ. The track has that uptempo East Coast choir vibe that will definitely hook you, as Deanna Brinson-Hobbs (Brinson's sister), delivers powerful lead vocals. There's no question that you will get the message.

Brinson also offers encouragement to the victims of the recent 9/11 tragedy with the touching "Hold On". Brinson keeps it in the family as his daugher, Tamela Brinson, is featured on "My Peace". Her lead vocals are worth a listen and serve notice that she is a vocal force to be reckoned with.

Brinson brings several different vibes to the table. He explores the worship side of things with "Let's Praise the Lord", a powerful track that successfully ushers God's presence into where ever you are at.

He goes after that neo-soul vibe with "Call on Jesus". He even hits the urban side of things with "The Lord Will Make a Way Somehow" and "Able".

Penning 11 of the 12 tracks on this project, Brinson shows a great deal of diversity in his writing style, as you travel through this project. And with production work from the very able Cedric Thompson, he has found a combination that works and results in a simply great album.