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 Azusa: The Next Generation The leading single from the album, "Every Praise" has already given fans a taste of what they will experience from what it said to be one of the most anticipated albums of 2013. When asked about the album Bishop Walker states that it will honor the "legacy" of gospel music and that it will "provide the next generation with a firm foundation of what Gospel music is".  The project is historic as it educates and pays homage to a special time in Christianity; the term "Azusa" refers to a mighty move of GOD that took place across the United States in two phases of life. The first began in 1906 with a revival held in Southern California and then again in the early 1980s in Tulsa, Oklahoma. During this time of revival heavy preaching, praying, and praise and worship took place. Singers and musicians from across the country would get together during this time and record songs of adoration and praise that went on to become anthems.With Azusa: The Next Generation, Bishop Walker's prayer was to bring back a collective spirit of worship. He states, "This was the first time in the history of my career that I've done collaborations with so many artists, and its monumental for me. Its about us coming together in this season and standing as one". Indeed, the guest appearances on this album are impressive, and include Deitrick Haddon, Pastor Donnie McClurkin, Pastor John P. Kee, Brian Courtney Wilson, and Love Fellowship Choir alumnus, Timiney Figueroa. And yes, the legendary Love Fellowship Choir is featured on the project but is extended to include the over 500-voice Azusa Mass Choir lifting their voice in praise. GRAMMY-winning producer Donald Lawrence is brought on board to produce the unified and signature sound. The smash radio hit "Every Praise" written by Bishop Walker and David Bratton starts the album. The extended version of the song flows directly into the choirs' interpretation of Will Reagan's, "Break Every Chain", as made popular by Tasha Cobbs. Deitrrck Haddon takes the vocal lead, adding a unique twist to the guitar-heavy arrangement. Sherri Jones Moffett and Daniel Moore pen, "I Need Your Spirit" an up-tempo, war cry song that Bishop Walker dedicates to his mentor, the late Bishop Kenneth Moales. Get ready to experience "Breakthrough" with Pastor Donnie McClurkin, and the contemporary soulful touch of "Grace" with United Tenor member Brian Courtney Wilson. Pastor John P. Kee delivers a life changing empowering word like only he can with "Work in Your Favor". Bishop Walker's own personal touch is heard through out the project as he co- wrote majority of the material. Each listener will experience his heart behind rekindling this Azusa movement. From the melodic lyrics to the rich arrangements, Azusa: The Next Generation sets the tone for the next generation of Gospel Music to carry on the mantle of authentic praise and worship. This album sends a message of unity that Bishop Walker believes will carry across the nation and bring back the heart of GOD into our music and the future of Gospel Music.
Email This To A Friend RCA Inspiration — review by Martin Williams —
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