Reviewed by Mike Rimmer

Kirk Franklin's vocal team go, ermmm, solo? If it's possible for a group to go solo, then this is the project although gospel's most radical pioneer stays at the control panel and firmly in the forefront when it comes to musical influence. Not as outright funky as Franklin's amazing 'One Nation' project, 1NC serve up a stew of hot gospel music with strong R&B flavours and a few Latin elements thrown into the pot. From the opening cardiac arrest sequence that opens up the album through the percussive breathy, breathless funk of "Movin' On", everything is off to a hot start. Unfortunately after Franklin's own material, expectations are high here and although the album has its killer moments, it doesn't quite achieve the complete knockout punch I was expecting. There is a whole pile of excellent tracks here including the Latin funk of "Unconditional" and the sold out, old fashioned gospel harmonies of "Breath Away" and there's the African melodies and rhythms and language of "Be Like Him". The most powerful ministry comes with the incredible ballad "Donna" which pulls no punches. It is introduced with the sobering testimony of accidental pregnancy and its honest fallout. Personally I just love the old fashioned 70s gospel soul feel of "Without You" and the driving groove of "Could've Been Me" with its theme of thankfulness. There's a lyrical honesty in the album, particularly when it comes to helping people get through their mistakes and find the grace of God. This is particularly highlighted on the gentle "When You Fall" which is another ministry highlight. Strong ministry, excellent music but not quite a classic.

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.

Interested in reviewing music? Find out more here.

This track data is supplied by the Cross Rhythms CD/DVD review library. Please note that CD tracks may vary according to release region or product version.