Reviewed by Mike Rimmer

When I first came across Antonio Neal Phelon, he was a gospel artist signed to EMI where he also became a staff writer. Stirred by the fresh racial tension in his home nation and his home city of Memphis, Antonio found a flood of fresh songs coming out of his burden for what was going on. Partly the album is cathartic to help his own soul and partly it's a collection of songs to inspire others in these troubled times. Recorded simply as an acoustic album, his emotive voice is front and central throughout. "I Am America" goes beyond the simply patriotic but is a heartcry for God to move. "How Many More" is an excellent song pondering "how much more blood on the streets" as he honestly confesses his emotions. "Rise" is a prayer for those disadvantaged who have no voice, calling out for the whole community to rise up and help others. "Praying Mama" pays tribute to a mother who prayed for him and spoke truth to him as he was growing up and made all the difference. The entire album is reflective except for one song where he breaks out into a sweat! "Other Side" is a rousing stomping closer to the proceedings. Born out of real struggles and burden, 'I Am America' is an acoustic-based gospel album that deserves to be discovered.

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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