Reviewed by Paddy Hudspith

Before 'He-Motions' arrived for review, I had previously only encountered the books of Bishop TD Jakes as I browsed the shelves of the local Christian bookshop. His victoriously-titled Woman, Thou Art Loosed! (which also spawned a companion CD) suggested an imposing larger-than-life persona behind the teaching. Some elements of the 'He-Motions' soundtrack certainly support this notion: for example the Bishop comes over all Barry White as an additional narrative voice on a number of tracks, especially "Intro"; he chooses to share some minutes of a sermon about the importance of fathers mid-way through the disc; his sleevenotes declare his belief that "this ministry will be a life saver to families, marriages and men." So it's a relief that the US gospel headliners joining Jakes here (the likes of Kirk Franklin, Donnie McClurkin and Da'dra Crawford-Greathouse) don't languish in his substantial shadow but make memorable impressions across a range of excellent offerings, albeit ones which play to their relative strengths. The most heavily-showcased artist alongside Jakes is (as the business-like Bishop introduces him in the notes "our new Dexterity artist") Micah Stampley, who holds his own amongst such celebrated colleagues. The individual tracks are thematically linked but never overwhelmed by the themes of Jakes' writing, and stylistically there is probably something here for every gospel fan. These songs of love, commitment, resilience and determination are recommended for the Christian father/brother/husband/son in your life.

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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