Reviewed by Kwaku

"A united voice called to encourage the body of Christ through urban gospel music," it says on the back of the CD cover, to which I wish to add that it has certainly succeeded. This is one of the best R&B/soul-based gospel albums I've come across. Men Of Standard, Dawkins & Dawkins and Anointed rock on their tracks, before Commissioned drop the tempo down with "Before It All Falls Down". Ex-Commissioner Montrel Darrett, who produced 12 of the 13 tracks, has created a top notch contemporary sound over which the Lord's words and praise can be delivered. Montrel's own "Save A Seat" is a very poignant song of an R&B singer, once of the church, who's been seduced by the seemingly seedy aspects of the secular industry. MILC, Duawne & Tiffany and Kim Burrell show off their beautiful vocals on the very lazy-paced, phat basslined "Everythang (It's Me)", "Brother's Love" and "Woman", respectively. KD Bowe with Lama Campbell & Spirit Of Praise funk it up on "Reign". This shows off what I love about contemporary gospel -God's music can be some of the most souIfuIlest and funkiest!!

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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