STYLE: Gospel RATING OUR PRODUCT CODE: 45663-14037 LABEL: Independent FORMAT: CD Album ITEMS: 1
Reviewed by Aaron Ferris
From appearances at the White House to sharing the same stage as Stevie Wonder, Alyce Metallo's artistic acclaim continues to rise and with a freshly released self-titled album the Washington, DC-born songstress has something tangible to show for all the hard graft. Starting with the strongest tracks on the album proves a good move. The toe-tapping-pop-laden opener "Stay" reminds us of unfaithfulness to Christ told through the gospel's account of Jesus finding his disciples asleep. Following that is the quirky "Blessed Assurance" cover. More often than not fusing an old hymn to an R&B rhythm is a recipe for disaster but here, with well layered vocals and a glimpse of Alyce's gifting on the keys, breathes new life into the Fanny Crosby oldie. By the time "The Promise" arrives the lady's vocal chords are warmed up and ready to shine. Steadily the track unwinds reiterating "Never will I leave you alone" offering a reassurance of the comfort found in Christ. Picking out spiritual encouragements in ear pleasing packages is not a hard task here although my listening pleasure was interrupted periodically by the shock inclusion of distortion blurring through "Dive In" as an attempt to rock it up is made. Although the core message of inviting unbelievers to make a decision to "let God help you let go" does merit inclusion, the guitar never really finds its place serving more of a distraction to my ears. Overall the unrelenting messages of hope, encouragement and biblical truths make this a well above average set.
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