Greatest Hits And More | Posted June-30-2015
Richard Smallwood has created a signature sound for Gospel music that is unmistaken and celebrated across the globe. He has written so many great songs that grace so many Sunday services, songs that have had even those who are not staunch Gospel fans asking "he wrote that song as well?" Thankfully, he is releasing the two disc Anthology, which features new songs, a journey back to his Smallwood Singers days and of course his hits with Vision.
Maurette Brown Clark begins "In Your Presence" acapella and delivers a wonderfully executed solo as Vision comes in to round out this song that screams "majestic." It is not often that I hear a song and I can envision Jesus actually coming in the room to sit on his massive throne as King. That is exactly what happens when listening to "In Your Presence" (check out Bryant Pugh on pipe organ) and "Lord You Reign" (led by Vanessa Williams).
Part of Mr. Smallwood's niche is to prominently feature the string arrangements of Steven Ford and Darren Atwater. Another is Smallwood's work on the baby grand piano, which he nails nicely on his piano only tribute to Andrae Crouch. He also pays homage to the Roberta Martin singers, who really inspired his love for classical music.
The "Vision Medley" wove several of the more prominent songs together. If you're wondering "did he put that song in the medley?" the answer is likely "yes!" Charisse Nelson McIntosh adds her strong ad-libbing to "Thank You" to round out the medley.
Long-term fans will recognize the gems in the "Smallwood Singers Medley," which has original Smallwood singer Dottie Jones coming back to lead "I Love the Lord." He really pulled out the hits for this album, and he pulled no punches. There was also a "Post Medley" that ends with "Total Praise."
Closing Thoughts:
This is a complete album and anthology! The vocal arrangements and transitions of the medleys are phenomenal. Richard Smallwood was able to include some of his greatest moments and incorporate them all into one impressive album.
Some Heat for Everyday Life | Posted June-15-2015
Tragic Hero is a New Jersey based artist with an original name who has gained much momentum in the last few years with an EP released with Wes Pendleton and multiple features (using both rap and vocals).
Having a buzz and anticipation for an album is obviously a blessing and a curse. There is the sheer excitement and impatience of fans salivating to get a taste of the new music, but there can also be a big letdown if the album is not what was expected. Following the singles "Winter" and "My Own Worst Enemy," the new album My Own Worst Enemy was carefully crafted, written and produced.
On the intro, he jumps right into the ugliness of the inner workings of the soul that only God knows about. Dre Murray joins Tragic on "1984," which has the feel of a sequel to Dre's "Pharaoh," which featured Tragic. This song has definite meaning, alluding to the book/film of the same name and mentioning Emmanuel Goldstein. Tragic and Dre ponder what happens when an artist just succumbs to what is popular and what would have lingering effects on a generation. After your career ends and the smoke clears, will people remember you and the impact that you made, or will you just be another "fly by night" artist that was hot for a minute?
I was taken aback by the setup of "Winter." There was something familiar with this song, arranged in ¾ time signature and with part of the chorus resembling that of "Indescribable" by Chris Tomlin. However, that is only a fraction of this complex song produced by Wit and carefully articulated by Tragic Hero.
"Nothing You Can Do" gets right to the heart of the matter of someone who is battling an addiction that he cannot seem to shake. Although it seems like he will never change, Tragic makes a strong determination that he will no longer be a slave to "it." Although the beat sounds like something that has been done before, I cannot deny that Wit and Daniel Steele made something that knocks hard.
The decision to let Christon Gray jump on a track and smash the chorus and the end of "Try Again" was definitely the right one. Tragic mentions the burdens of family members being sick, his wife's temptation to leave him and other insecurities that cross his mind. Another "less is more" chilled out banger is provided by Wes Pendleton and Wit. "Happy People (featuring Taelor Gray)" is the jam! Hot Handz makes the beat go from simple Hip Hop 101 boom bip to a smoother beat. The emcees kill it on both beats.
Closing Thoughts:
Tragic Hero has delivered such a solid, dope album. I believe My Own Worst Enemy will be critically acclaimed and appreciated by the fans. There are times where he falls into a chorus or two that sounds too familiar with what we have heard from him before on features. However, that is the exception and not the rule for this noteworthy project.
Song to Download Now:
"Try Again (featuring Christon Gray)" (Get it on iTunes here.)
Songs of Resilience | Posted June-01-2015
In the last few years, Marvin Sapp has been like a palm tree. He has been bent by the death of his wife, father and two great friends, and he was left to take care of his three children. However, he has popped back up to continue to pastor Lighthouse Fellowship Church in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and he continues to preach and sing across the world. His resilience is nothing short of amazing, and now he's venturing to release an album titled You Shall Live.
This is yet another album with the help of Aaron Lindsay at the helm as producer. Lindsay has become a trusted friend and confidant for Marvin, as Aaron has been producing for Marvin Sapp since Marvin released the crossover smash (and theme song for many) "Never Would Have Made It." Myron Butler again assumes the role of vocal producer. Returning singers Candy West, Deonis Cook and Chelsea West, along with Darian Yancey-Mackey, bassist Darrell Freeman and drummer Calvin Rodgers, help round out the crew that has worked on last three or four albums for Marvin. This formula continues to work, and it stays fresh.
It is safe to say that people will take notice and listen when Sapp drives the churchy "Count On You," because this is something he knows to be true. It's something about songs like "Count on You" and "Beloved" that just move you when experiencing them live or just listening at home. One feels empowered and inspired as they put their focus on God. By the time you get to the vamp of "Beloved," as they shout, "Thank You for Your Love.../Thank You for your favor," you will be all in and ready to hear this song over and over.
I love the versatility of the album. The "jam" of the album is the up-tempo and funky "Greater," written by Sapp, Lindsay and Stan Jones. Some may think it has an "Uptown Funk" vibe, but many artists have been doing this style before that smash hit came out. Byron "Talkbox" Chambers adds his touch and he sends the song into high gear.
"Live" is a wonderful ballad set to help those who are on the verge of throwing in the towel. This may be the anthem that many people will gravitate towards, and will likely be another song that will garner many emails, tweets and inbox messages to Marvin.
Closing Thoughts:
I was a little doubtful and biased because this is a studio release, and I tend to like the "live" Marvin Sapp albums more than the studio releases. Much to my delight, You Shall Live really does not have a feel of a studio album. When listening to songs like "Your Love Wins," people should walk away feeling empowered.
A Future Household Name | Posted May-19-2015
Houston, Texas resident Jonathan Singh has not necessarily been a household name in terms of the CCM mainstays. However, there was a time when Matt Maher, MercyMe, for KING & COUNTRY and more were also relatively unknown in the mainstream. With the powerhouse Save the City Records (who has an already impressive roster of artists) behind him, Jonathan is ready to bring his own niche sound into world. This sound is a blend of pop, contemporary Christian and, of course, praise and worship. The album is smoothly titled City Love Music.
As I listened to "Alive Forevermore," I was drawn in by the proclamation and proud declaration of Christ being alive in him. The drum track included was also impressive. It is a sort of scaled-back electronica track that never fully develops into an all-out party sound. Yet still, when Jonathan proclaims "there's nothing that can stop you," the party is basically on!
The perfect song to play after this is "Father We Love You." Can there be an electronica adult contemporary? If so, that's what this is.
"You're the anthem that I sing / You're the anchor that I hold on to / You're the hope when I have none / My Forever! My Forever." These words seem to resonate and reassure of God's infinite grace and sovereignty on "My Forever." This may be a song that Jonathan needs to release as a single, or at least sing at his live shows.
Songs of worship seem to be a very strong point for him. "Nothing Worth More" proves this even more as Jonathan takes this song from a soft anthem to a driving ballad of adoration. Throw in "Wide Open," and here are three powerful ballads and worship songs that could work well during his worship set. They are sure to find their way into set lists for worship leaders.
I did not expect "Tell the World," which has a hint of dance hall sprinkled into the pop/electro sound. It just works. Labelmate Je'kob brings a little heat to round out the already enjoyable track. I liked the song as soon as it came on, but before long my head was bobbing and I was all in!
Closing Thoughts:
I really like what Save the City Records is building. The label is diverse in terms of genre and ethnicity, and Jonathan Singh seems to fit very well in that framework. I am definitely feeling City Love Music, and hopefully it will gain traction in Christian radio and on the charts.
Expect Real on This Collaboration | Posted May-12-2015
Alex Faith has the Atlanta grittiness while Dre Murray brings the heat from the third coast of Houston, Texas. Both together and separately, these brothers have raised the bar in CHH with solo albums and as part of the collective W.L.A.K. So to have these guys together for the Southern Lights: Overexposed album is a perfect fit, and this album lives up to the hype.
The ills of life in their respective cities is presented on this album in typical Dre and Alex fashion. If you are going to listen to an album featuring Dre Murray, then you know to listen several times because you will uncover layers of the message with every listen.
"I-285" is as dope lyrically as it is musically. Topped with piano and synthesizer over a nice beat courtesy of real drums, Alex spits from the perspective of someone who is as proud of the city of Atlanta as anyone, but ends it by explaining how he uses Hip Hop to make Jesus known. While this one stands out, the Hip Hop fan in me wants to takes points away from Alex for saying that he had never heard of De La Soul until he was 19!
Dre reps his city via "I-610," using the same beat as Alex's ode. As a Houston area native, I felt very at home as he mentions the street names and restaurants on the south side of Houston. However, this dude is quick-witted, using metaphors and personification to paint a vivid picture of an empty life of thrilling seeking on the south side.
"Fake" and "irrelevant" are two words that will never describe Dre and Alex. They are either presenting things they have experienced or seen. They use this project to present a visual album, possibly the first in CHH. This is great news because "Money," featuring Reconcile, needed a visual. The placement of Reconcile on this one works like gold and does not feel like a forced collaboration.
I was initially amped and excited about Tragic Hero being featured on "All Around the World," but I was a little disappointed because Tragic is on the hook that sounds too much like every other trap song currently on the radio. He chants in oversaturated staccato. That is really the only downside of this album.
Race relations and tensions have been a deep and even controversial topics both inside and outside of the church setting. Artists like This'l, Lecrae and Propaganda have been accused (at separate times) of race baiting, while they have also garnered support. Pastors like Matt Chandler have led the charge for racial reconciliation. Dre and Alex do not shy away from the topic one bit. On "Wake Up Music," Dre hits up the black on black crime, while Alex hits at those who are white who turn a blind eye to crimes against black people. Then Swoope expresses his skepticism regarding deaths of unarmed black men at the hands of the police.
Closing Thoughts:
You will not be let down by Southern Lights: Overexposed. The album is very southern but also holds strong lyricism, which is a combination that some believe is lacking in the south. They take you on a journey of real life struggles and experiences and lead you back to the cross ("Forever"). This is not done in a corny way that seems predictable and contrived. These dudes are real.
Classic Resurrection Songs | Posted April-30-2015
Celebrating the Resurrection of Jesus Christ is something that brings many families together. People who will seldom attend church make sure that they attend Easter Sunday in their Sunday's best. Across the country, songs of victory and joy about His resurrection are resonating through the sanctuaries and radios. RCA Inspiration compiled a list of great songs for the season with Risen: Powerful Resurrection Gospel Songs.
"Dramatic," "carefully arranged" and "beautiful" are a few ways to describe "They Didn't Know" by Kurt Carr and the Kurt Carr Singers. They paint a picture of the crucifixion, death and resurrection so vividly that it is no wonder why praise dancers and choirs have chosen to use this as their interpretation of what happened during those three days. Fred Hammond and Radical for Christ's "Communion Song" is also featured, and it is still mesmerizing..
Gospel enthusiasts will be thrilled that RCA included such classic songs as "Marvelous" by the late Walter Hawkins and Thomas Whitfield's "We Need A Word From the Lord." Gospel music is where it is today because people stood on the shoulders of those artists.
"We Give You Glory (feat Crystal Lewis)" from the recently departed Andrae Crouch helps to round out the songs by our gone but never forgotten giants. The latter screams "triumph" and "victory" about what Jesus did for us all.
Closing Thoughts:
I have been very impressed with the list of songs from RCA's Gotta Have Gospel: Christmas album. I am equally impressed with this album. The only weak point is that I do not think William Murphy's "You Reign" fit into this album very well. But even a song like "Now Behold the Lamb" by Kirk Franklin and the Family seems like a perfect fit, though it was initially featured on their Christmas album.
This is a good mixture of songs You can never go wrong when you have classic songs from some of the greatest Gospel artists. And, it's just that much better when it is about the Resurrection.
Song to Download Now:
"They Didn't Know" by Kurt Carr and the Kurt Carr Singers (Get it on iTunes here.)
What Do You Fear? | Posted March-18-2015
Eshon Burgundy has the gritty East Coast Hip Hop style that I love. He delivers the lyrics in a manner that is both dope and impactful.
I was very surprised when he signed to Humble Beast Records because it seemed as if his style was so different from what artists like Beautiful Eulogy, Propaganda, Forknown and even J. Givens brings. That is what I get for underestimating how Humble Beast works with its artists and how they are able to allow the artists to be themselves from a musical standpoint. So Eshon released his first Humble Beast project The Fear of God and as expected… it bangs!
Of course when people see the album cover they wonder what it's about. Eshon has explained that the album cover represents the opposite of the fear of God. It shows how man wants to rule over their own life and pursue riches and other temporary pleasure. Shai Linne explains it during his interlude: "To fear the Lord is to stand in awe before the reality of God / in this sin infested world we live in, the fear of the Lord is the exception not the rule."
In "Healthy" featuring Je'kob, Eshon hits on several areas of fear that can spiral out of control without the proper fear and respect of God. In all obviousness, what is necessary is a healthy fear of God that begins with knowledge.
"Blood Money" is one that stands out to me because Eshon's chorus caught the attention of my students in my History class. It was actually quite entertaining to hear a few students trying to decipher exactly what he was trying to say in the chorus: "Blood money, blood money, blood money / pay for it all in blood / that's the price of love." His blood paid the price for our sins, but he did it for love.
I would be remiss if I did not mention how Eshon's wife Tandeace brought some heat at the end of "Come Alive." J.R. brings the alternative soul vocals while Eshon and J. Givens spit passionately about the igniting joy of finding Christ. Check her out!
No one else could have laced "Respect, Power & $" the way John Givez does. The track is ill, the bars are exceptional and the placements are on point. I know people are saying that he is everywhere, but this John Givez honestly falls as a standout lyricist and wordsmith.
Closing Thoughts:
Eshon does not disappoint, and the mixing on this album is a huge improvement from his previous album. There are however moments where I wonder what would happen if Eshon had different inflections in his voice. He is one of my favorite lyricists, but I would like to see him venture out a little like he did with the song "Close Your Eyes." Still, this album screams hip hop and boom bap, pointing you to Christ in a very overt way.
100% Real | Posted March-18-2015
Bumps INF equals "real talk." When he puts out music, he doesn't pull any punches.
"Almost bought a strap so I can better protect my family / But I'm too afraid I'll use it on myself when I have a bad day." This is just a glimpse into the battle that he fights in his mind as described on "Prisoner." This is one of the things that separates him from other artists and typical youth group music.
He continues a look into his life and battles throughout Man vs. Machine. Bumps instills the help of Cephas da Remnant (his production touch is unmistakable), MPax (watch out for more from him), Marv4MoBeats (who produced most of the album) and more. Of course he has to have his God Over Money family along for the ride too. He definitely picked the right beats for the album.
Thematically Bumps tackles the ills of man's clinging to their own man-made "machines" of sorts, from stocks to denominations to anything else constructed by human ego. Bumps does not shy away from speaking about his divorce and being remarried.
Some may be caught off guard by "Desperate Measures." The track by Juice (of Soundbreaker Muzik) has a great flow, but the topic is intense. After an argument with his wife, Bumps goes to a bar, took off his wedding ring and sees a woman appealing to his eye. Conversation strikes, temptations get heavy… he gets up and leaves.
I have to say that it was a nice change to hear Bumps just spit on the "#Barz Outro" and "Solo Island," where he shows his humorous side with a lighter tone. "Logo (featuring Bizzle)" just bangs! It is one of those stank-faced tracks. Like he says on "Forever Yours," "Press play and let it bang if it isn't wack."
Closing Thoughts:
I like Bumps INF and what he believes in. He never shies away from his issues, and he walks through them. This album is real, and he puts it out there while still giving glory to God.
If you are a youth pastor, check this out and digest it. There may be a few kids in your group that feels like an outcast. This album could actually be a great conversation piece for those who feel like they are the only one out there with certain issues. Pick this up!
A Debut Masterpiece | Posted March-01-2015
Remember the group Anointed? They were a groundbreaking group that made waves in Gospel and then CCM in the 90s and early 2000s with songs like "For the Sake of the Call," "Send Out a Prayer," "Revive Us Again" and "Godspot." Steve Crawford was the lone male singer in the group. This baritone/tenor was irreplaceable, and he would especially capture an audience during their live performances.
Over the last five plus years, Steve has been leading worship at Lakewood Church along with his sister Dadra, Israel Houghton, Cyndi Cruse Ratliff and more. Now Steve is releasing his long awaited and long anticipated solo album. Expect a melting pot of Gospel, CCM and a little R&B, all seasoned with songs of heartfelt praise and worship. Steve produces the album with keyboardist William "Willie" Garcia (watch out for this very talented musician/producer) and multi-instrumentalist Andre Vinson.
Steve is one of those singers who can sing various styles. He drives it home and gives a soul-stirring jolt on "Abundance of Rain." I have heard him sing this live several times, and it never gets old. I love the energy and the proclamation of the title song. Not to mention the fact that Mayra Alvarez of The Voice steps in to lend a little bit of her singing.
It is a family affair on "Uniquely Me." Steve's wife Tammy (Daughter of Ann McCrary of the McCrary Sisters), son Steve Jr and daughter Ani'ya all collaborate on this catchy song. I found myself pressing repeat over and over again. Even an adult should be reminded that God made us all unique.
Stevie Wonder was honored this month for his huge catalogue of timeless music that touched people across racial boundaries and genres. His voice is amazing and his pen is prolific. He is in a class all by himself. Steve Crawford also has the ability to sing and write in a way that does not stay in a box. An example is "Love Will Lead The Way," written by Steve. Steve guides us through a journey of the power of showing true love and care for our fellow man. His voice flows masterfully throughout with skillful orchestration by Roger Ryan, plus Steve's tickling of the ivories and Joel Camey's smart placements of the electric guitar.
He gives us more of the soulful Gospel feel on "I Am" and "He's Amazing" while flowing just as smoothly on the pop ballad "Face to Face." It should be noted that "Face to Face" morphs into a nice Gospel vamp with vocals from the Lakewood Choir and Dadra.
Closing Thoughts:
This is an album that I can suggest to lovers of Gospel and CCM. For those who just want music that leads them into the presence of God, Steve delivers. Steve has one of the best voices around, and he is also one of the nicest people who really makes people feel welcome when they are around him. His debut is an album worth noting, a gem that should not be overlooked.
Real, Righteous and Relevant | Posted February-09-2015
Lately Dee-1 has been present for some of the biggest events of Hip Hop. He was featured on the BET Awards' Cypher, Sways Universe, not to mention the fact that he is signed to RCA Records. With a major label behind him, you might think that Dee-1's message would be more subtle, but actually he has gotten more bold in proclaiming his love for Jesus Christ. His new EP, 3's Up, is a follow up to the free album Psalms of David 2, which was a strong album terms of production, flow and subject matter.
Listening to the "Interview" was pretty crazy because I did not expect him to give an actual recap of that pivotal interview with Sway. But he did, sharing some intimate details, including the man who called in crying. Kudos to him to put this in a song, because that shows his "other thinking" and how much of an impact the actual time with Sway had on Dee-1.
It is cool to hear him to bring his thoughts and his struggles on "I'm Not Perfect." He goes from wrestling with the thought of possibly sleeping with a woman to telling her why it is not right to do so. He also ponders whether to be upfront with his faith when dealing with industry executives. He decides to be all out, represent Christ and pray for those who hate him. The beat is a simple Dirty South 101 banger with organ weaved throughout.
It is all about Dee-1 being "real, righteous and relevant," which is his new motto and the heart of the title track (previously heard on Psalms of David, Vol. 1). One thing that stands out for him is his storytelling, which is something that only a few are doing in mainstream hip hop. This song makes me nod my head, reminiscent of listening to an old Scarface song with that wah wah guitar and bass.
His lead single "Against Us" is a serious banger, but the way the hook is delivered takes a little bit away from the song. That can be said about this EP overall: the hooks are a little weak, and hopefully this is something Dee-1 can work on for his full length album. Honestly, Psalms of David 2 totally trumps this album in terms of tight hooks.
Only a few rappers have been afforded the opportunity to be teachers before or while they have been traveling emcees, most notably Propaganda and Dee-1. Dee presents a gut-wrenching story of a former student killed by another former student on "My Student Got Murdered (Both Sides of the Gun)." Both saw pain in their lives while deciding to give in to the draw of the street. The victim even went to the altar sometime before the altercation and shooting. This is one you have to check out. This hits very close to home for me as a teacher, since I have had two former student die from a gunshot wound in six months.
Closing Thoughts:
Dee-1 is hard in the trenches. Even though a few hooks could be better, I think, 3's Up still has some heat. It is great to watch and see what God is doing in the life of Dee-1.
Song to Download Now:
"My Student Got Murdered (Both Sides of the Gun)" (Get it on iTunes here.)
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