TRENDING NRT NEWS: Songs Fighting Prejudice | Am I Racist? Movie Review | How Brandon Heath Changed My Life
DwayneLacy_NRT's Music and Book Reviews
Return To DwayneLacy_NRT's Profile
    Join The NRTeam
ADVERTISEMENT
Latest Music and Book Reviews
I Still Have You by Smokie I Still Have You by Smokie
What You Need to Know
Pastor Smokie Norful...
Night Vison by Geoffrey Night Vison by Geoffrey
What You Need to Know
Geoffrey Golden...
Into the Atmosfear by GAWVI Into the Atmosfear by GAWVI
What You Need to Know

GAWVI generated...

Showing 1-10 of 171 |   View Next 10 Album and Book Reviews
It's Vintage Smokie | Posted June-07-2024
What You Need to Know

Pastor Smokie Norful burst on the scene around 1999 or 2000, when he gained noteriety playing and singing in the lobby during the Gospel Music Workshop of America. A few years later, he released I Need You Now, which included the colossal title track that stayed on Gospel airways. After 22 years of releasing Gospel music, it is awesome to see this brother still at it with his new album of nine songs, I Still Have You.



What It Sounds Like

Vintage Smokie! He knows what works for him and that voice. From the churchy, organ-filled "I Can Do All Things" to the power ballad "I Still Have You", Smokie knows how to masterfully drive a song without over riffing or running. He remakes the 90's Thompson Community Singers song, "In My Name." This is a number that will continue to encourage people with lyrics, like, "I am the Lord I can move all mountains/I'll be your strength when you're weak weary and worn/Believe in My Promise/Cast your cares on me/Anything that you need/Just ask in My name." Smokie adds a little heat with the slow banger, "Blessing", one where the beat could easily be used in rap music. 



Spiritual/Lyrical Highlights

There are so many songs centered around things being okay, and working out. You think there may already be too much in that area. However, with new devolopments, tragedies, etc, you quickly realize that another song of encouragement will not hurt. On the soulful, It's Gonna Be Alright, the second verse stood out to me for obvious reasons. "Around the world things are happening all the time/And if you look too long and hard,it'll make you lose your mind/I don't care what it looks like/Don't let it steal your smile/If you hold on long enough/He'll fix it afterwhile." 



Best Song On The Record

This was an easy one for me. Here Smokie remade an R&B classic, "They'll Never Be." He takes this Switch song and flips it to refer to Christ. I would not have been mad if he made it as an ode to his wife. Either way would have worked. It still has that old soulful sound with some smooth vocals from Smokie singing of how they will never be anyone like Jesus.



For Fans Of: 

DeWayne Woods, Gene Moore, Marvin Sapp



Final Word

I Still Have You is the album for Day 1 Smokie Norful fans and for those who love good Gospel singing with a great message. He did not pack the album with filler songs and felt that nine were enough. Buy on Apple Music and listen on Spotify



 



Comments (0)  |  Add Comment   | Is This Review Helpful? Yes | No
Authentic Vertical Worship | Posted June-03-2024
What You Need to Know

Geoffrey Golden gained major buzz ten years ago when he took Gospel music by storm as a fiery twenty-year-old phenom who won BET's Sunday Best. He went on to release, Kingdom...Live on Kirk Franklin's Fo Yo' Soul Recordings/RCA Inspiration. This album, produced by Myron Butler, was well received. If you know anything about Geoffrey, you know that he is also a preaching machine. However, in everything he does--singing, preaching, or teaching--he wants people to "see Jesus as King and own their unique place in His Kingdom." In 2024, the now husband and father is still preaching, hosting a podcast, and just released his new album Night Vision, a titled based on Daniel 7. A family affair, Geoffery's brothers Kevin and Reginald Golden directed the record.



What It Sounds Like

This album blends choruses, exhortations, declarations, and full-length songs into a cohesive spiritual experience. It begins with an opening prayer by Pastor LaBryant Friend, setting a reverent tone before Geoffrey leads his singers in the powerful call and response of "Be Glorified." The chants of "Be Lifted/Be Lifted/Be Glorified.../Jesus" create an electrifying atmosphere as Geoffrey adlibs and directs.



"Call to Worship" is a medley of beloved choruses, featuring "We Give You All the Glory" from "Alpha and Omega" and "King of Kings." Within this medley, Gwen Henderson passionately leads "He is Lord," and Elizabeth Komba Odom elevates the worship with her rendition of "Be all glory and honor, dominion and power/Forever and ever, amen."
By the time they get into the chorus of "Revelation 19:1," my eyes started blinking fast, holding back tears.



I like the way Geoffrey ends the album with two upbeat songs. The chorus of "In Jesus Name" (co-written by and made popular by Darlene Zschech and Israel Houghton) gets another funky reworking. It leads into the equally funky "God in This Place." The band is locked in with some stellar guitar work by Stello Clark and nice chops by drummer C.J. Watkins. Geoffrey goes in passionately adlibbing, "Tell me who/Who can stand/Against the Man/The Man of War?




Best Song On The Record

Singer/guitarist, Jabari Johnson joins in on the folksy "YHWH" to sing, "You're the giver of each good and perfect thing/Our creator, God, yes You are Elohim/You gifted each of us purpose and destiny, Yahweh." The song stays light and midtempo with the exception of the bridge. I love to see artists take risks and go outside of their musical norm. The fact that the first half of "Refuge (Psalms 91)" is a bit country mixed with soul and they also using one of my favorite passages of scripture, I was sold. It gets even better with Maranda Curtis dueting with Geoffrey. On the vamp, each of them trade off masterfully adlibbing without ever over doing it. 



For Fans Of

Myron Butler, Travis Greene, Marvin Sapp



Final Word

Geoffrey is only 30 years old, but his music is wise beyond his years. Night Vision is an album that truly honors the Lord and leads people to seek Him in worship. I was left feeling satisfied and blessed after listening to it.



Listen to the album on Apple Music or Spotify

 



Comments (0)  |  Add Comment   | Is This Review Helpful? Yes | No
The Return of GAWVI | Posted May-30-2024
What You Need to Know



GAWVI generated much success, first as a young producer (remember the Rhema Soul days?) and then as a resident producer for Reach Records. He expanded into a full-on artist/producer with the 2016 release of Lost in Hue, followed by multiple albums that toed the lines of EDM, Hip-Hop, Urban Soul, and a little R&B. GAWVI's creativity was through the roof and his impact on CHH and Christian music was massive. Unfortunately, he made some horrible decisions that cost him his marriage, his reputation, and was eventually dropped by Reach Records, even after pursuing counseling. After hitting that low, he took time away from the public eye. He slowly started coming back to social media and eventually started sharing that he was going to be releasing new music. After two years away, GAWVI has released his new single, "Into the Atmostfear," on Alienz Alive, a new imprint by superproducer, Rodney Jerkins. It is great to see him back after seeking restoration. People have been praying for GAWVI and God is a great restorer with an incredible track record!



What It Sounds Like



Many wondered what GAWVI's first message coming out of this season would be, and he wasted no time staking his future in the redemptive power of Jesus. It is still that GAWVI sound–the 5-plus minute track feels like multiple tracks in one–but the message is to "Rise up and know that the Christ in you resurrected from the dead so that we may have life in abundance. Let's breathe again." Part 1 of the song begins and it has that typical GAWVI sound that was missed. Symbolically, he feels like can come up for "air" despite apprehensions and regret for past discretions. Through the EDM dance beat, he has a lot to say. For instance: "Like CPR (Like CPR)/ gotta heal this heart (Gotta heal this heart)....I had to go through the fire/through the cold nights. When I open my eyes I can see You there/All this time I've been looking for You/CPR (CPR), gotta heal my scars, they left me/It brought me to Your love." He also speaks of the struggle of personal loss from this season that many experience walking through sin publically, "Had a lot of lonely nights to get up out the hills God broke the seal."



Spiritual/Lyrical Highlights

The tempo shifts in the second part of the song, introducing a slower beat with a stronger Hip-Hop influence. This change mirrors the artist's renewed vision and deeper Christ-centered focus. He sings about being supported by the right people during his time away ("Lately I been unavailable, I been surrounded by angels Some people had to go change roads"), emphasizing his clarity and determination. GAWVI's unwavering focus on Jesus is evident as he prepares to drop an album and maybe make more appearances. On the outro, he seems relieved as he says that it has always been about Jesus amidst it all.


For Fans Of

Andy MineoPhil JTedashii



Final Word

GAWVI is back! "Into the Atmostfear" is a great way to step back into a field where he will be met with skepticism, doubt, and anger, while also being accepted with love and appreciation. With the help of Jerkins' Alienz Alive, GAWVI's close friends, and the right spiritual guidance powered by a God that redeems, I am excited for GAWVI! It's about to go crazy!



Buy on Apple Music or listen on Spotify


 



Comments (0)  |  Add Comment   | Is This Review Helpful? Yes | No
New Label, but Still Versatile | Posted April-25-2024
What You Need to Know

We have been hearing Aaron Cole for about ten years now since he was an early teen. Most of that time was spent on Gotee Records. He announced his departure from Gotee in the most respectful manner, honoring TobyMac and Joey Elwood. A little later, Cole signed with RCA Inspiration/Provident which is under the Sony Music umbrella. With so much that has changed, he released the aptly titled album, Sorry I Changed, first on the new label. Despite the shifts, Cole remains true to his craft showcasing his prowess in both rapping and singing. Guests on the album include DOE, and Kirk Franklin with top-notch production.

 


What It Sounds Like



Aaron Cole did not veer from the formula that we love from him. He is the versatile rapper and singer that we have rocked with for years. "Hands On My Life" has Aaron rapping over a smoothed-out track accented by a sped-up chorus of vocal samples. He knows that all he has been through and blessed with is only explained as the Hand of God.



"I Love It" is one of the first singles he released from the album. Produced by Cole Walowac and Solomon Olds of former band, Family Force 5, Aaron is just showing gratitude for a life he has been blessed to live. Although it has come with some heartache and cutting ties from unhealthy relationships, he welcomes the trials.



"What It's Like" is a head nodder that I can vibed to as well. This song is a retrospective look at the grind of selling CDs at the lunch table along with his parent's divorce, and the recent pain of losing loved ones including his grandmother. 




Kirk Franklin steps into his usual role of injecting vibrant energy on "SBTN," a song that takes the chorus of Kirk's "Something About The Name Jesus," and mashes it with a dance track. Who would have thought that such a song would be transferred into a dance anthem?! It works! 



Spiritual Highlights

 The whole album is a compilation of the highs and lows of his life while always showing gratitude for living blessed. Through some things like losing his grandmother, and other staggering blows, Cole continues to point to Christ while dealing with staggering blows like losing his grandmother. It is a great reminder of the scripture that says, "In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you." (I Thessalonians 5:18). "Somebody had to pray for me to get this fly/Somebody prayed for my family up in the Chi/Somebody had to pray cuz the odds were stacking high/I know somebody prayed, we still alive." These are lyrics from the boom bap hitter, "Prayed For Me." Yes, Aaron gets a little braggadocious, but it is mostly just a song dedicated to the power of those who have interceded for him in prayer. 



Best Song on the Album

"Infinity (feat. DOE)" is one of those songs that you could attribute to a marriage (especially since both Cole and DOE are both married to their respective spouses). However, this one is reserved for God, "God I thank You for the good, bad, the ugly/It's all part of the story/Shows me that You always gon' love me/Through the good, bad, the ugly." DOE's mezzo-soprano vocals and intonation just add to everything that she is on. "Infinity" is one of those, "That's the jam!" songs. "Look @ God" is another one of my favorites. I cannot help, but nod my head while listening. 



For Fans of: 

 Nobigdyl, Parris Chariz, and Christon Gray



Final Word

Sorry, I Changed is another solid offering by Aaron Cole. With the backing of RCA Inspiration/Provident, I am sure he will charter into new territories. Listen on Apple Music

 



Comments (0)  |  Add Comment   | Is This Review Helpful? Yes | No
Ricky Dillard Keeps Choir Music Alive | Posted February-11-2024
What You Need to Know

There is a great appreciation for new styles and elements in gospel music. But there is still room for traditional gospel and "good ole" choir music. This is where Motown gospel artist Ricky Dillard has stayed consistent. He stays in his lane while still keeping things fresh. That is hard to do. He's back again with Choirmaster II. His band, the New Generation Chorale, doesn't miss a beat.



What It Sounds Like

It's all there: ballads, hand-clapping, foot-stomping, and shout-to songs. "Fill Us Once Again" has a groove backed by a bass guitar provided by artist Dee Hearne. Gospel musician Marcus Hodge adds that subtle but important organ while fellow artist Brent Easton smashes on drums. The choir asks the Holy Spirit to "fill them once again/Send it down." The lead singer drives the point home with his squalling adlibs: "Yes I love Him/And I adore Him/I lift my hands/I bow before him/Deep in my heart I really love the Lord/I love the Lord." So sings the choir against a mid-tempo melody on "I Love the Lord." So simple and easy to follow. "I Know What Prayer Can Do" is that good ole shouting song that will get the saints in the aisles to praise God in a dance. Ricky Dillard knows how to pick the good ones.



Spiritual Highlights 

"When I Think" is a song of reflection and retrospect. There are so many times in our lives that serve as landmarks to come back on and reflect on what God did in our lives. For some, it is times when they thought they would be evicted, and God stepped in. Others, it is times when God protected them from very harmful situations. For others, it's just gratitude for His loving and saving nature. There are too many scenarios to name. However, this tune is reminiscent of the old '80s and '90s choir songs. Cue in, "Thank You/When I look back over my life/Thank You." Then they isolate the vocal parts to say, "You were there/You were there/You were there." Then they come back again to say, "Thank You." Sheesh.



Best Song

Two songs deserve the honor of "Best Song" for encouraging people during tough times. Singer/songwriter Jason Clayborn brings his raspy tenor and baritone vocals to the ballad "Not Far Away." He co-wrote this song with gospel family Ricky, Dana Sorey, and Zeke Listenbee. I can see it being a mainstay on the charts and in the homes of so many. The lyrics are relatable, especially in today's society: "If you're feeling alone/And sometimes afraid/Your anxiety is racing/And hope drifts away/Remember that your season/It's going to strengthen your faith/Just say strong in the Lord/He's there in the fight." "Hold On" is the hand-clapping, foot-stomping number I alluded to in the first paragraph. Man, does it encourage. I must admit, the choir's tag "gotta hold on" almost gave me a fit in my car on the way to Starbucks. They certainly drive the point home. Get ready to hit repeat several times.



For Fans Of

Hezekiah Walker, Donald LawrenceAnthony Brown & group therAPy



Final Word

I needed Choirmaster II. It's good traditional choir music with soul-stirring numbers and grooves pointing to Jesus. Gospel music needed it. Thank you, Ricky Dillard and New G, Marcus Hodge, and the band for another hit. Keep gospel music alive.



Buy the album on Apple Music and stream it on Spotify


 



Comments (0)  |  Add Comment   | Is This Review Helpful? Yes | No
An Album Autobiography | Posted October-09-2023
What You Need To Know

Kirk Franklin is currently in the beginning leg of The Reunion Tour with Israel Houghton, Tye Tribbett, David and Tamela Mann and The Clark Sisters. People are raving about this tour, and the excitement is real. Three months ago, Kirk was in the middle of working on a new album when he was hit with some of the worst news in his life. The man he knew as his father was one whom he saw only sporadically. Fast forward to a few months ago when Kirk found out that his "father" was not actually his father, but a man who had been living ten minutes from Kirk for years. This gutted Kirk, leaving him with more questions than before. He has often spoke about being insecure due to not being raised by either of his parents. Parts of this ordeal was captured in a documentary on YouTube.



Purposeful in the title, Father's Day, Kirk is back with a new album. This time, he is navigating through this process and getting to know his real father. He also did this mostly without his musical director and co-producer, Shaun Martin. This album is a very personal one for him.




What It Sounds Like

This ten track album falls in line with other Kirk records, especially the last few releases. These are well-written and arranged songs that will tug at the heart strings. Insert the ballad, "Listen." This songs starts off with the ladies beautifully singing in unison, accompanied by Justin Savage on piano. "God of the stars, can you silence the storm deep in me right now/Relight my fire/That warm embrace has ended/You, I can't keep up with You/Help me know what's true/Lies have become believeable/I don't what else I can say/So maybe it's better this way if I just listen." This dialogue in song has the men come in, portraying God singing back to a person who has poured out their heart to Him. "Try Love" is a vibe with nice programming, courtesy of Max Stark and Devin Morrison. I was a bit confused with the interpolation of Lisa Stansfield's "Been Around the World," but the transition back into the "Try Love" was dope.

 

Spiritual Highlights

This is an album that shows a Kirk Franklin who is strongly reaching for God to help him during a time where he is very vulnerable. "Needs" is a prayer longing for God above all noise, misguided wants, and failed actions made without Him. It is a song of desparation, captured greatly by the singers Melodie Pace (Rose), Jazmin Crumley, JoJo Martin, Isaac Carree, Ariel Campbell, and more.



"Again" features an all-star lineup of singers: Chandler Moore, Tori Kelly, Jonathan McReynolds, and Jekayln Carr. Each singer interprets the lyrics, assuring that they may not know how God will come through in their lives, but they are confident that He will come through again. His track record is flawless. Kelontae Gavin and Miranda Curtis round it out with the strong reprise, "Again and Again." Kirk ends the song singing and you can tell he's broken, but hanging onto God with the thread of Faith. 




Best Song

"You Still Love Us" is my jam. Even in the midst of me jamming to the rhythmic arrangments and the staccato vocals, the lyrics stand out being that they are so relatable. When you hear, "I mess up, I/Fall short, I/Fail often, but/God, You love us/", serves as another reminder of that unconditional love we receive from God. 



For Fans Of

Jonathan McReynolds, Tye Tribbett, Myron Butler




Bottom Line

Father's Day is an album that Kirk needed to make. As he is processing all that has happened, he is still ministering to many. Several who have been adopted have also commented about their own journey and how they can relate to what Kirk Franklin is going through. Even through all of this, Kirk has still brought another solid album! Listen to Father's Day on Apple Music and Spotify

 



Comments (0)  |  Add Comment   | Is This Review Helpful? Yes | No
Songs That Minister to the Soul | Posted September-16-2023
What You Need To Know

Gospel artist James Fortune has consistently released songs that minister to the souls of many listeners. He has developed his own sound regarding vocal arrangements and style. He has now released the Worth It EPanother one to add to your collection.



What it Sounds Like

James writes songs for the everyday listener, those who are meeting life head-on, and those who have moments where they want to give up. James often incorporates unique sounds and guests. R&B vet and one of James' favorite singers, Monica, is featured on "Trusting God." It is as if this song was written specifically for Monica to add her signature alto tone to.



She sings, "I should have known better/Tried to do better/There was no one to blame but me/But the times that my faith wasn't there/But You were and You showed me You cared/And the nights that I didn't feel safe/And the strength that I could not explain/So I'm just down here trusting God." The song builds into an all-out anthem of hope.



"Couldn't Be Me" is such a dope song all around. The vocals have a staccato rhythm and a slight autotune effect layered over a crisp, programmed beat. In the song, James gives several reasons why we, imperfect humans, could never love like Jesus. They also sing about what God says about us in the Bible. When you are feeling down, sit back and chill to the "Don't Count Me Out." It is a smooth song featuring a locked-in band with the horns weaving in and out.




Spiritual Highlights

James has themes of trusting God and hanging in through tough times. No matter where anyone looks, someone is always going through some testing. Questions remain. So when "Worth It" comes on, people will be encouraged to hear the background vocalists sing, "It will all make sense/This is not the end." James' exhortations are on point amid the vocals. Then the master vocalist, Zacardi Cortez, comes in and adlibs like only Zacardi can do. This brother knows how to drive a song home. 



Final Word

This EP is vintage James Fortune. He knows how to encourage those who are going through dire situations. He can pull the vocalists together to convey his message nicely. Worth It EP is yet another solid release. 



Stream Worth It EP on Apple Music


 



Comments (0)  |  Add Comment   | Is This Review Helpful? Yes | No
Choir Music Will Never Die | Posted September-10-2023
What You Need to Know

Choirs like the late Kevin Lemons and Higher Calling, Mississippi Mass Choir, Sunday Service Choir, Ricky Dillard and the New Generation Chorale, and so many more are gracing the playlists and churches of people globally. People often overlook the impact of Gospel choirs, despite their continued presence in music.



Insert GRAMMY Award-winning producer/songwriter and artist Dwan Hill. Dwan is coming off a very successful few years, having worked with gospel great CeCe Winans on her GRAMMY-winning, colossal album, Believe For It. In mid-2022, Dwan put a call for those in the Nashville area who wanted to join a gospel choir. Not only did people answer the call, but over 90 people showed up for the first rehearsal. Now, that very choir has swelled to a whopping 1,300-plus members. This talented and diverse group of singers has created an attention-grabbing sound. They recently released "Joy," a catchy single featuring contemporary artist Ben Rector.



What it Sounds Like

"I used to wake up feeling real stressed/Now I wake up feeling really blessed," sings the tenors of The Choir Room. The ladies came in strong with a bit of sass, "And for a minute I was feeling real rough/Until I saw that what I had was enough/I didn't know that I could love it this much." The song has a nice little groove to it while showcasing the choir. Dwan created arrangements that allow the choir to shine while singing about the joy that Christ brings. Ben eases into the vamp, singing, "Feeling good, Feeling right/Every day/every night/I got joy in my life/In my life." Then, he adds a little edge to it as he continues to sing. 



Spiritual Highlights

"Joy" is celebratory in subject matter and a pretty fun song (Dwan, I'm going to sing with your choir one day) to sing. No matter the season of life, they confidently sing of the joy that Jesus can bring to anyone who lets Him in.



For Fans Of

Nashville Life Music, New Direction, Maverick City Music



Final Words

I'm so very encouraged by The Choir Room. Another choir can bring a unique approach without losing the "choir sound." "Joy" is an excellent introduction to the world. 


 



Comments (0)  |  Add Comment   | Is This Review Helpful? Yes | No
Madison Ryann Ward Releases Her Debut Album | Posted June-13-2023
What You Need to Know

Madison Ryann Ward is a singer who has been buzzing around the Christian, CHH, and R&B industries for several years. This talented artist was an outside hitter with the Oklahoma Sooners volleyball team from 2012 to 2016. (How many artists can say they played D-1? Not many.)



Madison has been singing since she was a child and gained the attention of producer Rick Rubin and toured with NEEDTOBREATHE. Although she has released mainstream music, Madison's faith has always shined through, never singing songs that would compromise who she is. After dropping several singles, an EP titled Beyond Me, and guesting on other artists' songs, Madison dropped a full-length album, A New Thing.



What it Sounds Like

Madison stays in her R&B genre throughout the album, which works well with her rich tone. "Green" is a smooth, hip-hop-edged song that speaks of the beauty of love. Benji adds a few bars on the slow banger, "Prodigal," where Madison sings of the loving arms of God welcoming her back when she falls away. "Even if I run away/I fall away/You will prepare a place for me/Waiting on my full return to Thee/Kiss away my brokenness/Cure me from this hopeless heart I've known/You are the Lover of my soul/I'm coming home."



"You Love Me So" has the old Aliyah/Timberland feel with the breakbeat and Madison's signature buttery vocals. A Madison Ryann Ward/Ty Brasel collaboration is found in "Unknown," and it's just what we needed. Both sing in the same register on this summer anthem.



Spiritual Highlights

There are several highlights that will touch people and help them in their walk. "Seasons" is a beautiful ballad showing people that you never stay in the same state forever. When people are engulfed in battles, it can be hard to realize there is an end.



On "The Same," Madison lets her guard down as she lets us in on what could be a personal journal. She sings about God dealing with the intricacies of life that are too tough to deal with. "You can see that I am hurting/You can see that I'm afraid/Help me walk away from the things I cannot change/And know that You still love me just the same."



Best Song

I picked two songs. (Yes, I am being one of "those people" who did not follow instructions.) "I Know" is one of them, a stripped-down acoustic ballad of the assurance that God will be with Madison through any "road" in her life.



I love the edginess of "Wanda," which shows the sassy side of Madison. She is confident, shaking off sadness, and ready to take on the world. The pulsating beat compliments the lyrics, "Wanna feel good with a big G/These foolish folk can't hold me/I love my fit, it's so me/That Zelda House my clothing (yeah)/Big ballin' like the pro team/My shot look clean like soapy/Your shot look broke and so weak/Like the old me (oh)." 



For Fans Of

Jonathan McReynolds, Lauren Daigle, V.Rose



Final Word

A New Thing is a solid album from Madison Ryann Ward. This is an artist who just has "that" sound. Her rich tone and the chill personality to go with it will serve her well. Even after having success and recognition with major players in mainstream music, Madison remains rooted in faith in Jesus Christ. A New Thing is an album that I hope takes off even more. People need to hear it.


 



Comments (0)  |  Add Comment   | Is This Review Helpful? Yes | No
An Album Dedicated to Mental Healing | Posted July-30-2022
What You Need to Know



Mental health used to be a taboo subject in churches and even more so among Black Christians. However, the wall has been coming down allowing many people to open up about their struggles. Gospel artist Michael Dixon opened up about not only his struggles but also seeking therapy and gaining victory over his mental health. He is determined to tell his story and help others with their mental health struggles. Michael's new album, How Are You Healing?, released by VGN Bae Musicchronicles his journey and serves as a vehicle to help others. 



What It Sounds Like



This brother is "in his bag" on this album. How Are You Healing? is an album that you can listen to from start to finish with no skippable tracks. Michael uses part of his pastor's--Dr. Timothy Sloan's--sermon to start the album. Insert, "Perception," a short interlude, featuring musician Dwayne "DW" Wright on bass.



Vocal arrangements are on point and the lyrics of the chorus hit home: "Perfection is the enemy of progress/Progress is the catalyst for change/Comparison kills dreams/But in reality, it's all about your perception/Believe what God has said/See past what you've read/Know that God is more than able."



"Be Alright," featuring artist Christina Bell, with its old-school R&B feel, is a self-encouraging anthem. Ms. Bell drives the tag, "All is well." Michael brought in music veteran Kathy Taylor to drive the point home with her take on the hymn, "It Is Well."




Spiritual Highlights



In "Keeper," Michael honors God for walking him through his difficult journey: "You've kept me/You've kept me/Thank You/You get the glory." Michael not only faces struggles mentally, but in 2020 he also had a difficult bout of Covid. So, when he sings about God helping him through difficulties, it's not some mere overheard cliche.



Michael enlists the help of talented artist Isaiah "Zeke" Templeton on "Looking Out For Me." Zeke's high tenor range soars throughout. Michael comes out of his comfort zone while trading adlibs with Zeke. "After This" has an infectious groove and background vocals while letting people know that after going through the "fire," there's something beautiful on the other side. 




Best Song



"Mistakes" is a standout ballad that resonates with me on a very personal level. The song's duality is what makes it so potent. It's therapeutic and ministerial. The chorus reads "Yes we've all mistakes/And that may bring some pain/It's not a consequence/It's a lesson/And though we've strayed away/God still will show His Grace/All things will work together/Even our mistakes." On the peaceful song, "Here," singers Deejay Lowery, KaiPei Walls, and Raven Johnson wonderfully bring their own vocal interpretations. 





For Fans Of



Gene Moore, JoJo Martin, Todd Dulaney



Final Words



Are You Healing stands out as one of the best and most timely albums in a time where mental health has been a struggle. Michael Dixon decision to step out and be himself is the reason why. Producer Zach Fisher did a masterful job on the production and the writing is stellar. 



Buy the album on Apple Music or stream on Spotify.


 



Comments (0)  |  Add Comment   | Is This Review Helpful? Yes | No
Showing 1-10 of 171 |   View Next 10 Album and Book Reviews

Christian Music, Facebook Christian Music, Twitter Christian Music, YouTube Christian Music, Instagram

ADVERTISEMENTS

TRENDING NRT NEWS: Songs Fighting Prejudice | Am I Racist? Movie Review | How Brandon Heath Changed My Life

Christian Music

©2024 NewReleaseToday
A Division Of NRT Media Inc.

 

Secure
CHRISTIAN MUSIC
Discover New Artists
New This Week
Coming Soon
Playlists
Free Music
Album Reviews

NEWS
New Music
Movies / Media
Events
Tours
General

PODCASTS
NRT Now Podcast
NRT Podcast Network

VIDEOS
Music Videos
Exclusives

EXCLUSIVES
Articles
Devotionals
Interviews
Concert Reviews
We Love Awards

MORE INFO
RSS
Privacy Policy
Terms of Use
Advertising
Staff
New Music Email
Contact

RESOURCES
Music Studies
Artist Training

CONNECT
Facebook
Twitter
Instagram
YouTube