Reviewed by Mike Rimmer

After 'The Rebirth Of Kirk Franklin' album re-established him in the hearts of the American church, Franklin is back to creating music that pushes back the frontiers of gospel music and 'Hero' stands as his most accomplished album yet mixing musical diversity with ministry. I probably just have time to pick out a few highlights to illustrate how good this album is. "Looking For You" is a catchy, poppy, groovy tune that I've been playing a lot on the radio because it's got a strong message of encouragement. The title cut features Dorinda Clark-Cole and focuses on the way that Jesus changes lives and begins with a vox pop of testimonies. Talking of testimonies, "Let It Go" is probably the most honest testimony he's ever recorded. It tells the moving story of Franklin's struggles and how God helped him overcome them and features the unlikely combination of Toby Mac and P.O.D.'s Sonny Sandoval singing the "Shout" backing vocal! Things get funky again with J Moss and Tye Tribbett on "Could've Been Me" which again mixes groove and ministry. Stevie Wonder guests on "Why" after Franklin contributed to Wonder's 'Time 2 Love' CD and the results are brilliant. After making his career writing songs, arranging and bringing together a heap of talent to create his albums, Kirk makes a rare appearance singing the beautiful worshipful ballad "Without You". It's a gorgeous moment. Ultimately 'Hero' points firmly towards Christ as our hero and though the album doesn't contain anything as mindblowing as "Revolution" or "Stomp", Franklin has reached a new place musically and in ministry, creating a set of songs that do what all great gospel songs should do. They move the heart.

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