Reviewed by Ben Gilligan

Originating from Houston, Texas, Brian Wilson is relatively new to the gospel scene but having signed to a new gospel label owned by Matthew Knowles (Beyonce's dad) has kicked off with a gospel smash entering Billboard's Gospel charts at number two. One particular standout is "No Other" which, with a drum beat that has more of a click then a metronome and a seriously funky bass line, this is a guaranteed floor-filler. Other must-mention tracks are the disco sounding "I Need More" and the emotive "Monday's Pain", slower than your stereotypical Christian gospel record and with Brian emoting with all the melisma and intuitive phrasing of the gospel giants. Throughout Brian's vocals are emotionally charged and passion filled. His faith in life and God is evident in every lyric he interprets. Matthew Knowles refers to him as a "blessed and gifted individual" and thinks he is "surprising the gospel community" with his talents. Although one or two of the sons here are a little unmemorable, 'Just Love' clearly flags down the arrival of an exceptional new gospel talent.

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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