Reviewed by Ato Erzan-Essien

In the new world order of Bishop T D Jakes and The Potter's House Choir, it behoves gospel groups the world over to up their game by at least a few hundred per cent and if not, at least die trying. One of the great challenges for gospel music in the 21st century is to maintain its appeal and even more so its relevance to a new and increasingly diverse audience. It is no longer enough to simply sit on the laurels of past achievements. It's clearly the case with KD & The Voices that they want to move beyond the tried and tested formulas and move into areas that perhaps are more unfamiliar territory for gospel choirs. There is a strong sense that this is the case with the first half of this album, opening with the lively "Overflow Medley" and "This Is Your House", there is a strong hint of the kind of soul-funk that Prince was playing some 20-plus years ago (another artist heavily influenced by gospel) with a rocky edge. However, despite the valiant attempt, it doesn¹t quite work. "We Want To Know Your Heart" is a case in point, the brilliance of the band gives the impression that the choir are supporting the musicians and not the other way around leaving the song sounding rather vague and, dare I say it, uninspiring. But like the best football games, this is an album of two halves and the album begins to revert back to its more traditional roots reaching a climax with the wonderfully infectious and almost frenzied "I Will Call Upon The Lord". Hence, another attempt to bring gospel into the new century ends up taking a reassuring step back but then again, if it ain't broke, why fix it?

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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