Reviewed by Matthew Cordle

Having had a brief transition from "Sam Moore" to "Samuel" for his 2010 release, Sam Moore is back. Just to avoid confusion, this is not the singer who was once half of Sam & Dave but, I would suggest, an equally soulful (and rather younger) Sam based in Birmingham, UK. Sam's website blurb boldly sets high expectations. . ."If you feel great all the time, then this record will make you feel ecstatic. If you need lifting up, these songs will raise you to heights you've never been to before!" This record is an eclectic fusion of urban, soul, pop and worship in a collection of exuberantly happy songs. With the first half of the album explicitly focused on Jesus, his love, presence and voice, it's no surprise to find the songs are uplifting. Yet Sam is not unrealistic and moves on to sing of how God has not promised us sunshine, how pain helps us appreciate the good times and how we can still "Be Grateful". He then moves onto the Christian's response; living the life of a soldier empowered by knowing we will "Live And Not Die" as we shine our light in the world, before closing the album with songs of praise and surrender. Producers Ibe Otah and Nicky Brown clearly demonstrate they can turn their hands to diverse musical styles, but the standout instrument is Sam's silky voice with a touch of Philip Bailey about it yet one with a stunning vocal range. One small note in closing - some of the verbiage on Sam's website is just too obviously written by an over enthusiastic marketer (". . .designed to viscerally move you, change concepts. . ."). I'll just go for enjoying the music and singing some praises!

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