Reviewed by George Luke

A bit of a growing name on the American contemporary gospel scene. On first hearing the kick-off track, "Love Jones", it sounds somewhat incongruous as secular R&B singers usually refer carnal love to "love Jones", rather than the spiritual highlighted here. Eartha wrote, co-produced and played most of the instruments. Sadly, her lack of musical prowess or imagination has produced several backing vocals. A case in point being the dancy "He Knows". However, a strong, funky effort can be found driving "Ain't Nothing Wrong" - a real dancefloor jam for Jesus. And the mellow "Shekinah Glory" is also a delight. Whilst I can't fault Eartha's lyrics, for they're unambiguously God-centred, and the vocals most engaging, there's no doubt that she's rather limited and not so self-sufficient musically. A remixer on the upbeat "Back" or "A Natural Thing" would have done wonders without the archaic and boring drum patterns, whilst the use of an outside producer might have made "God Is On Our Side" or "Just Take Some Time" into the fine mid-tempo gospel attractions they potentially are.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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