An Album Dedicated to Mental Healing Posted July 30, 2022 By DwayneLacy_NRT, Staff Reviewer
What You Need to Know
Mental health used to be a taboo subject in churches and even more so among Black Christians. However, the wall has been coming down allowing many people to open up about their struggles. Gospel artist Michael Dixon opened up about not only his struggles but also seeking therapy and gaining victory over his mental health. He is determined to tell his story and help others with their mental health struggles. Michael's new album, How Are You Healing?, released by VGN Bae Music, chronicles his journey and serves as a vehicle to help others.
What It Sounds Like
This brother is "in his bag" on this album. How Are You Healing? is an album that you can listen to from start to finish with no skippable tracks. Michael uses part of his pastor's--Dr. Timothy Sloan's--sermon to start the album. Insert, "Perception," a short interlude, featuring musician Dwayne "DW" Wright on bass.
Vocal arrangements are on point and the lyrics of the chorus hit home: "Perfection is the enemy of progress/Progress is the catalyst for change/Comparison kills dreams/But in reality, it's all about your perception/Believe what God has said/See past what you've read/Know that God is more than able."
"Be Alright," featuring artist Christina Bell, with its old-school R&B feel, is a self-encouraging anthem. Ms. Bell drives the tag, "All is well." Michael brought in music veteran Kathy Taylor to drive the point home with her take on the hymn, "It Is Well."
Spiritual Highlights
In "Keeper," Michael honors God for walking him through his difficult journey: "You've kept me/You've kept me/Thank You/You get the glory." Michael not only faces struggles mentally, but in 2020 he also had a difficult bout of Covid. So, when he sings about God helping him through difficulties, it's not some mere overheard cliche.
Michael enlists the help of talented artist Isaiah "Zeke" Templeton on "Looking Out For Me." Zeke's high tenor range soars throughout. Michael comes out of his comfort zone while trading adlibs with Zeke. "After This" has an infectious groove and background vocals while letting people know that after going through the "fire," there's something beautiful on the other side.
Best Song
"Mistakes" is a standout ballad that resonates with me on a very personal level. The song's duality is what makes it so potent. It's therapeutic and ministerial. The chorus reads "Yes we've all mistakes/And that may bring some pain/It's not a consequence/It's a lesson/And though we've strayed away/God still will show His Grace/All things will work together/Even our mistakes." On the peaceful song, "Here," singers Deejay Lowery, KaiPei Walls, and Raven Johnson wonderfully bring their own vocal interpretations.
Are You Healing stands out as one of the best and most timely albums in a time where mental health has been a struggle. Michael Dixon decision to step out and be himself is the reason why. Producer Zach Fisher did a masterful job on the production and the writing is stellar.
