STYLE: Gospel RATING OUR PRODUCT CODE: 92255-16426 LABEL: Independent FORMAT: CD Single ITEMS: 1
Reviewed by James Howard-Smith
Apparently named after the Gospel writer, St Mathew-Oviemuno Arorote - which he shortens to the pretty cool-sounding Ovie - this Nigerian-born Catholic singer, songwriter and poet here offers his debut, a two song single. The lead off track "I Really Wanna Know", speaks of a heart that yearns not simply to reach beyond human limitations, but to actually resemble Jesus. It's by a good way the stronger track, with lead vocals balanced nicely alongside the smooth choral support with a strong enough melody for listeners to ignore the inexpensive, keyboard backing. "Zion" aims for more a traditional church sound - Ovie's lyrics this time being complimented by some light organ playing, which is partnered by bells that sound uncomfortably like a budget line Christmas release. All-in-all, not bad but not particularly good.
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