Reviewed by Keren Perrott

North Carolina-based singer, songwriter and producer Valerie Woodard has created a contemplative debut album of gospel and contemporary worship tracks, opening with "Relationship", a dedication that some listeners may find oddly personal. Indeed, the album is reflective of a personal journey but this does not prevent the listener from identifying with many aspects of it. Tracks such as "Lord You Made My Day" and "All Things" provide affirmations that encourage and inspire. On occasion the production doesn't do Woodard's voice justice; slightly tinny percussion and some unadventurous production tricks on tracks such as "This Joy" and "Even If." remove some punch from more upbeat melodies. Some of the most potent and well-arranged tracks prove to be slower numbers mid-way through the album; "My Life" and "Calling" encourage worshipful contemplation and a sensitive collaboration with MAGOH ("Men After God's Own Heart" - North Carolina contemporaries of Woodard) provides a welcome addition to the vocal set. Woodard is undoubtedly a talented singer/songwriter (co-writing every track on the album) and the range of textures used here, from acoustic guitar to samba beats, means that the album has enough variety to play to a variety of tastes.

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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