Majestic Proportions | Posted February-09-2015
Armar'rae Hill and True Foundation is back on the scene with We Are Royalty.
Prince sort of spearheaded the "Minneapolis sound" that spawned the sound of the group, and now Indiana is carving their niche for Gospel artists. Hill has a sound similar to fellow Indiana peeps YPJ and FVC. Rightfully so since, YPJ's sister Micki serves as the musical director of Armar'rae Hill and True Foundation. Expect crisp vocal styling topped with keyboard driven musical arrangements, a sound YPJ calls "dream music."
"The Cry" has the feel of a pop-rock ballad that might sound like an anthem of empowerment, but this one is actually a cry for God's help in a time of desperation. "Invincible" actually speaks of the power a person has with Christ dwelling inside them. It does so with a pulsating beat behind True Foundation.
It is a strange thing that people of the church have been conditioned to believe that praise only happens with a "fast" song, and songs centered around worship are only right for a song with a slow tempo. Honestly, that is what I was expecting with "H.O.W. (Heart of Worship)." What we get is uptempo contemporary jazz via singing unison as True Foundation (in their unique way) seeks to get the center of what worship is all about.
When a Gospel artist does a song titled "Destiny Butch," the audience might be a little confused at first. The title is unlike any other, but the song is dope. Hill lets us into his prayer life, seeking God for direction as he wants to be the man whom he was called to be. Hill has a verse that bears some resemblance to that of J. Moss' voice. Hill brings in Facebook and YouTube sensation Drew Chambers to lend his tenor vocals to the song of reverence, "King."
Closing Thoughts:
This is a solid album with solid arrangements. I hope to hear more in the future from Armar-rae Hill and True Foundation.
Jason Nelson aims to make Jesus more famous | Posted January-03-2015
It is said that there are times when fans and artists alike can get caught up in the vocal acrobatics of an artist and deem them "anointed" just for that alone. Although I am a fan of the vocals of Pastor Jason Nelson, this brother also--and more importantly--stands out for his heart for God and worship. He unites with producer Dana Sorey for the musical portion and enlists the help of fellow vocal beast/worship leader Daniel Johnson for the background vocal arrangements. The result is the album Jesus Revealed.
"Right In This Place" deserves mention because it is just a fun song that screams exuberance and celebration. The arrangement has a disco/techno edge to it and makes me want to take it old school and do some dances like "lockin" and "the bump." I wouldn't suggest you start pop'n lockin' in the church if you hear him sing this song, but you will definitely want to dance.
No matter if if Jason takes it church with some quartet style, hand clappin', foot stompin' a la "I Can Run" or ventures into the territory of Bluegrass, on "So In Love," the theme of passionate worship, gratitude and making Him known stays the same. Thankfully nothing seems contrived or misplaced. Something about the vamp of "So In Love" that resonates and challenges me. They just continually sing, "Oh, Oh, You have my love forever." With everything that tugs at us, does He really have our love? Thanks Jason!
"I Am" is just a beautiful song featuring masterful backing vocals from the likes of Charlin Neal, Krystle McConico, Gene Moore Jr, Jeremiah Hicks, and more. It's a call and response ballad reminding everyone of the ever present God in the midst of any hardship and difficulty. Great song in a society when the climate of racial tension, threats of terrorism, sickness, political dissension can be overwhelming at times.
Closing Thoughts:
This is THE album for Jason. He did not rest on his laurels or rely solely on his top notch vocal stylings. I always like to encourage people to get music that may or may not be their normal music. Jesus Revealed would be a good choice!
Revitalizing Hip Hop | Posted December-15-2014
Hip hop fans, do you ever find yourself listening to hip hop (whether mainstream or even Christian) and thinking "why does everything sound the same?" Well, Japhia Life is here to save the day or the game with his album The Profit. That may not have been his intention nor were those his words, but hip hop needed this album. It's an ode to 80's and 90's rap with a 21st century spin.
The telling of his life growing up in Philadelphia is the subject matter of "Flashlight," with a sick beat by Eastside High. Lifey wants to bring the light of Christ into the darkness that happens in the streets. This one is a head nodder, and you will instantly want to hit repeat.
Lifey continues the introspective look into the hardships of the city of brotherly love on the banger "Ultra Violence." One can hope that the lane for this type of hip hop will basically reopen so that youth, critics of the genre and radio will hear something that is fresh yet seasoned. Lifey gives a node to Houston, Texas aka H-Town and DJ Screw with the chopped and screwed interlude, "Get It Done". He uses this as a segue to "Real Love", which is a dope ode to the longing for THAT girl that he is ready to do life with.
Japhia does not shy away from singing his own hooks and showing a few chops of his own. As a teen, his mother would have Gospel music blasting throughout the house. One artist that he heard a great deal was Pastor John P. Kee, whom he features on this album. Kee takes a more soulful angle in his vocals to weave adlibs throughout the song "Water," while Lifey sings the hook. If done right, a Gospel artist and a hip hop artist can do a song that works, and "Water" definitely works.
I can vibe to and even zone out to this album. It is like a part of the serum that should be injected into the infection plaguing youth through mainstream hip hop. There may be moments where the mixing could have been better, but there is so much else that is right with this album. You can't help, but hear the pain as he speaks of the death of one of his best friends on "Jermaine Chain."
Closing Thoughts:
Like he stated in one of the songs, he is trying to stop the mirages and get the "Days Back" from all of this nonsense that is plaguing the radio. Japhia Life is an artist trying to bring realness back into music. He brings Christ into hip hop, though he has never gone by the label of Christian hip hop. All labels aside, pick this up and just enjoy one of the most authentic and real albums in a long time.
Gotta Have This Compilation This Christmas | Posted December-15-2014
You gotta love the Christmas season. Various Christmas specials and Christmas episodes are sprinkled all throughout television, eggnog becomes the drink of choice for so many while others just get in the festive mood. And walking into department stores and coffee shops and hearing songs about Jesus… these songs are an essential part of Christmastime. This year, RCA Inspiration compiled a list of favorite classics and originals by some of the greatest Gospel and R&B artists. You Gotta Have Gospel: O Holy Night in your collection this Christmas.
Although this is a compilation, there are many songs worth mentioning. One being the authentic jazz version of "Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas" by Anthony Brown and Therapy. This interpretation is flawless, and it channels the Manhattan Transfer. As corny as this might sound, it makes me want to go ice skating .
I must have been hiding under a rock since I had never heard Ayana George's take on "O Come O Come Emmanuel." She does this acapella, with light BGV's to accent. Ayana George has been heard on Hezekiah Walkers' albums, as well as appearing on the latest release from Kurt Carr. Ayana basically nails a favorite carol of mine.
It must have been hard to pick the right song from Israel and New Breed's critically acclaimed A Timeless Christmas. "Tidings (God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen)" was a great choice, with beautiful strings and smooth harmonies by New Breed. It is all about the ending, with the haunting guitar and instrumentals for the last minute of the song.
RCA Inspiration threw a curveball with the 1996 jam "For Real Christmas" by Commissioned, featuring Montrell Darrett and Marvin Sapp on lead. The theme through the majority of this compilation is smooth and easy listening, so it's a necessity to include "Home for Christmas" by Marvin Sapp, featuring a singer's favorite singer, R&B artist Joe. And when they include Fred Hammond's "His Name Is Jesus" as well... in the words of the man from the movie "Coming to America," "they good!"
Closing Thoughts:
There are many Christmas albums out there and many interpretations of popular songs. RCA Inspiration really picked some good ones to make Gotta Have Gospel: O Holy Night a compilation worth buying for you or someone on your list.
Song to Download Now:
"His Name Is Jesus" by Fred Hammond (Get it on iTunes here.)
Fred Has Done It Again | Posted November-25-2014
Many people refer to Fred Hammond as simply Fred, because he gives that cool and down-to-earth vibe. He has graced our tape players, CD Players and now smartphones for years now. He still remains relevant and ministers. He's back with I Will Trust.
As I take a listen, I'm thinking, "What is happening, here?" I hear the guitar riffs, the retro 1980s sound, the background vocals of PamKenyon Logan, Lehman Gray, Destiny McGill and more. What's the name of this song? "Try Jesus."
Of course, Fred Hammond sings and ad-libs in typical "Fred" fashion. The praise and worship keeps driving with "I Believe," and I just sit back and say, "Yep, that's vintage Fred," which is a great feeling.
Fred Hammond had double knee replacement by a surgeon who was a huge fan of Fred's group Commissioned when he was a kid. As a child, this surgeon (and a friend) even called Fred at two in the morning and Mr. Hammond talked to them. Fred had never met them before, but it was a divine set up. Years later that kid would turn out to be the one who operated on him.
So even with a great surgeon and a powerful testimony, Fred must have struggled with the thought that he could possibly never walk again. So when you hear the passion in the title song, "I Will Trust," you can imagine him singing it as a prayer of declaration to his fears and to God. This song has actually served as a theme song for people suffering ailments from cancer to depression and many places between. His daughter and newlywed, BreeAnn steps in for some adlibs and harmonies. Will she be releasing an album soon?
So a reunion of sorts happened when Fred and his ex-musical director, Noel Hall, got back together. They created the majestic and almost theatrical, "It's Only the Comforter." It is a layered song that tells of the promised Holy Spirit that showed up at the Day of Pentecost. The song then fast forwards to the same "Comforter" that serves as just that in the days of peril. The song builds to "Holy Spirit, Holy Spirit / You're welcome here / You're welcome here," and ends too soon.
So the common temptation when listening to a Fred Hammond album is to look for that signature song like, "No Weapon" or "Celebrate (He Lives)" or "You Are the Living Word" or "Blessed." Basically, we want change in our lives and to continue to progress. Selfishly we do not want or allow our favorite artists to bring fresh new music. When you come with an open mind, you will be able to enjoy a strong time of worship when listening to "Lord Have Your Way"--another signature song!
Closing Thoughts:
Fred really has done it again! Kudos to Calvin Rogers, Philip Feaster, King Logan and Shaun Martin for lending their production chops to Fred. Fred Hammond has the pen of someone who has endured life's blows, but keeps things in perspective, totally trusting in God. Get on iTunes, Amazon, etc., and buy this album!
Worship-Ready | Posted November-05-2014
Javen Mays is an artist who is new on the scene, really in the sense of national releases and exposure. However, there is room for new artists to bring their unique delivery and expression to the the scene. He releases quite an impressive album, #PluggedIN, complete with songs that will appear on the song list of various worship teams.
The focus on this album is intimacy and worship with several gems included. At times it has an unplugged feel to it, as the audience can be heard on a few songs singing loudly. "Lord I Trust You" shows the beauty of singing a simple chorus and how it can really sink in to the point of one yielding their will to God's. Javen then throws the tag of "Provider" from Charles Jenkins' popular "Awesome." There could be a mashup of both songs in a songlist for a service.
"I love you, I love you. Forever / 'Cause You love me" is repeated and resonated throughout "Overwhelmed" making this a powerful love song. Singer/worship leader, Miranda C. Willis lends her strong pipes to "Glory to the Lord" and takes it into something different on the reprise. She goes in and takes everyone with her while singing to God. It is as if she was truly singing to an audience of One and others were there to witness.
Well Javis decides to allow everyone to express themselves and just "Dance." Complete sounds of "Oooooh" from the singers and come masterful keyboard playing, there is a time at the end of the song where you can envision folks dancing and running around the church. Wait, can they do that at church? Of course they can!
Closing Thoughts:
Hopefully, Javis will be featured in some of the notable Gospel showcases such as Stellar Awards weekend and more. He has material that deserves to be heard and shared with the world.
Je'kob just keeps grinding | Posted October-09-2014
Je'kob is a man who is constantly grinding and working hard to make music for the people, do the will of the Father, love and provide for his wife and newborn son, Maddox. He released several EPs, mixtapes and albums within the last three or four years, which makes one wonder, "When does he come up to breathe?"
Although he has struggled at times to differentiate his songs, he also has made quality songs that have made a dent into music libraries (mine included). So without sounding too cliche, his new album, This Side of the Sky is his most complete album to date.
Je'kob is very talented in the sense that he incorporates so many stylistic elements into his albums. With "Hands & Feet," for example, you fill a mid- to slow-tempo pop/rap/worship song with simple guitar strumming to go along with a pulsating beat. It is a song that speaks to believers to be true ambassadors for Christ because there are many in the world who really are hurting and longing for someone to bring hope. Marc Millan--gotta hear more from this guy--nails the chorus with, "Jesus, my soul is bleeding / My body's shouting, 'I want to see Your hands and feet."
"Letting Go" is not only dope because of Je'kob's deeper flow or Josh Lane's vocals on the hook, but the message is the clear winner. He speaks so vividly about the realities of loving his wife so much and the possibility of her dying before him. On the second verse, he speaks of the fear of what his children will have to face in this world when they are brought into this world. Although hard, he knows that he must give it all to God.
Lead single "I Believe" is a feel good song that would fit well in Jamie Grace's catalog because she just has the music to do so. Je'kob nails this one and it would have been epic if Jamie could have made a guest appearance. Longtime fans, have no fear. Je'kob still brings the music that you are used to hearing. "Life On Mars" is a EDM ditty topped with some dubstep elements that talks about how strange it is that we're obssessed with finding life in outer space when we don't respect the babies in our women's wombs. He invites rappers Canon and Deraj to blaze, with songs "Illuminate" and "Supernova" respectively.
Closing Thoughts:
Je'kob is the man, and I have stated before that he is one of the hardest working artists that I have ever heard of. The grind NEVER ends. Thankfully so because This Side of the Sky shows tremendous growth and gives more music to fill the airwaves, phones, etc.
The System Didn't Prepare for This | Posted September-17-2014
The definition of anomaly: "Something that deviates from what is standard, normal, or expected." This is something that should describe Christians. We are the ones called to step beyond societal norms. This is a word that absolutely describes Christian crossover rapper Lecrae, who fittingly titled his new album to reflect this concept.
"Fear" has Lecrae delivering an honest look at some of his apprehensions concerning whether his life is pleasing to God. He explores fear of failing in front of his critics and some of the thoughts in his head that could cause people to look at him differently.
The beat on "Welcome to America" is pulsating, and the echoing chants in the background provide the punch to send this one over the edge. The music takes a backseat to the lyrical look at stories of those in America who have faced horrible experiences, from ignored military vets to desperate immigrants.
With the upbeat "Runners," Lecrae warns men not to "creep" on their wives, and warns of the consequences if they do. The dialogue in this song is quite humorous and enjoyable. Lecrae also pays homage to his wife (or God depending on your interpretation) on the R&B laced "All I Need Is You." It's starting to gain more airplay on the radio waves and hopefully it will build more momentum.
It is not always easy to be candid and transparent when you have a following. Thankfully, Lecrae does this throughout Anomaly, reminding us why he relies on God. He gives a sobering look at the fact that Christians are broken people who must rely on a God that has it all together. This is done in the form of "Broken," which has a slight alternative edge highlighted by the vocals of Kari Jobe. Jobe, who usually sings in her soprano voice, gives us a hint of contralto on this one.
In another fantastic collaboration, Lecrae enlists the help of the talented for KING & COUNTRY as he calls on the "Messengers" of the Gospel to rise up and share Christ with the world. You can never go wrong with the Smallbone brothers, and this track is no exception.
Closing Thoughts:
This is a complete album with great delivery and a great message. This project is one of Lecrae's best, and the world is taking notice. He obviously does not want to fit into the norms of society, nor does he want to be boxed in. He, along with so many of us, is truly an Anomaly. I'm grateful that he continues to bring the "heat" and grow as an artist.
Multi-Generational Appeal | Posted September-15-2014
The Walls Family from Houston, Texas is making quite the buzz with their mostly acapella renditions of worship and gospel songs. Darrell (23), Rhea (18), Paco (18) and Ahjah (17) released a self-titled debut, a project which garnered critical acclaim and more opportunities to minister around the country.
Their career really took off when Kirk Franklin stepped into the picture, blown away by the group's YouTube cover of his song "The Appeal." Kirk signed them to his Fo Yo Soul Entertainment label, and with his support behind them, this year they released Fast Forward.
The radio friendly and catchy lead single "Perfect People" was accompanied by an impressive music video. Though they are youthful in style, their songs will still appeal to a wide age range.
With the ongoing (and sometimes tiresome) debate about how much or how little Christian artists should mention the name of Jesus, The Walls Group asks the question of whether they can get some "Love On the Radio" if they talk about Him. This song challenges radio to play songs that proclaim His name. The song's pace is midtempo, but contains some interpolations of Kirk Franklin and the Family's previous "He's Able."
"Big Brother" puts the greatness of our Lord into perspective. They reference His royalty, but relish the idea that he still knows our names and will step in like a heroic big brother. Things smooth out on "High" with a pulsating beat and borrowed ode to the Art of Noise's "Moments in Love". When you are cooking and you find that last ingredient to make your meal perfect, it's a great feeling. Lecrae's rap does just that for this already strong song. Brandy Norwood's vocals do the same thing on the urban ballad "God On My Mind." The singing that Brandy and The Walls Group display is smooth and so flawless.
"Beautiful" (featuring Kirk Franklin) showcases the nice harmonies of the group as they draw inspiration from Ecclesiastes 3:11: "He has made everything beautiful in its time." This is definitely a standout song.
Closing Thoughts:
The Walls Group has just gotten started, and things will only continue to look up for them. Fast Forward fits their style, and it will be both loved by their young peers and appreciated and enjoyed by those who are older. Kudos to Kirk Franklin for seeing the great talent and providing a bigger platform for them to be a godly example to today's youth.
An Album that Empowers | Posted August-27-2014
For a while it was taboo for Christian artists to write songs dealing with relationships or life situations. Rachael Messini has been one to do this even when it was not very popular to do so. She (along with brothers Je'kob and Josh Washington) made waves and blazed trails as the Souljahz. Later, she and Je'kob became to the duo, The Washington Projects. Now, as a solo artist, Rachael releases Honestly, an album that is completely Rachael which is good ol' life music.
Wives who are trying to have a child or woman who had trouble having children will be able to identify to the beautiful "Selah." This touching tribute to Rachael's daughter (named "Selah") has her giving God praise for allowing her to give birth to her against all odds. The song also finds Rachael giving Selah advice for the future.
The beat is so ill on "Falling Together" that your face will frown in musical delight. Rachael spits some nice bars of solidarity and unity for her marriage. Je'kob lends his sister a hand over the banging "Smoking Gun," which deals with the damage that the tongue can do when it is not controlled.
Rachael is not one to give a lot of riffs or runs, and that serves to her advantage. Check out how sweetly she breathes life into the the title track, "Honestly," by way of the lovely vocal stylings. Listen to Je'kob as he subtly serves as a hype man on certain parts of the song. Rachael releases this album at such a perfect time, especially with the recent news of people committing suicide and so many people feeling hopeless. "Free" is light-hearted ditty of Rachael singing of God's grace to do what that the title suggests.
"Better" keeps the empowerment going, but this time Rachael admonishes the single ladies not to settle for the "dogs" (men who play the field), while rapper Beleaf tells the fellas to imagine if there children were treated the way they are treating the ladies. In summation, Rachael tells the ladies to know who they are in Christ while Beleaf challenges the men to check their intentions. Before you claim male bashing, Rachael and Canon send a shout-out to the strong men who are serving God, taking care of their families and their business on "Firemen."
Closing Thoughts:
On Honestly, Rachael delivers and people who are not churched will enjoy the message. Although Christian artists have been accused (deserved and undeserved) of being unoriginal, Rachael has been rapping and singing over beats for a long while now. Although there were a couple of songs where I wished she would have left out her bars rapping, this is definitely an album to support.
DwayneLacy_NRT's Music and Book Reviews 
