Raw Vocals, Powerful Worship

Mississippi native Kaden Slay grew up a pastor's kid and found a passion for leading worship in his church at the young age of thirteen. His interest in music only grew from there, guiding Kaden to where he is now: a missionary at the headquarters of People & Songs and the Emerging Sound in Indiana, where he also serves as a teacher, staff writer, People & Songs artist and worship leader. Motivated by a desire to bring the church closer to the Father through music, Kaden now presents his debut album The Mercy Of Jesus.

"Together At The Cross" opens with a very simplistic acoustic approach to worship. The acoustic setting continues into "One Thing I've Learned," a lyrically vulnerable story telling song. Kaden's soulful voice tugs at the emotion of listeners on this track, making it an instant highlight with its raw and genuine feel. The title track offers more of the same: subdued melodies that sweep you away, wrapped inside Slay's captivating vocal.

Piano-led "He Is Right Here (He's Big Enough)" speaks encouragement to broken and weary souls, while "The One That Really Matters" sings praise to Kaden's audience of One. The second half of this album is laden with guest appearances, featuring the likes of Bryan McCleery on powerful "This Is The Kingdom Now," Phil King on song of surrender "I Stand Before Almighty God Alone," Crystal Yates on soaring "Gave Up The Ghost," Jennie Lee Riddle on hopeful "This Covenant" and Melanie Tierce on "There Is A Lamb."

The Bottom Line: The Mercy Of Jesus captivated me with how authentic it felt from beginning to end, bringing in vivid lyricism to paint the picture of Christ's goodness while keeping it musically simple with stunning acoustics throughout. Kaden Slay is a new name right now, but I suspect that will soon change if he continues crafting worship music like this for the Church.

For Fans Of: Corey Voss, Corey Asbury, Shane & Shane

Song To Download Now:
"One Thing I've Learned" (Get it on iTunes here.)