STYLE: Gospel RATING OUR PRODUCT CODE: 167912-26318 LABEL: Independent FORMAT: CD Album ITEMS: 1
Reviewed by Lins Honeyman
Philadelphia-based gospel singer, producer, arranger, preacher and multi-instrumentalist Darryl Henry's latest album kicks off with the calypso-tinged "Something On The Inside" to highlight the difference Jesus will make in a person's life and to set the scene for a varied collection of original songs. Whilst sounding a bit on the dated side with its cheesy synth brass and smooth sax fills, this nonetheless satisfying and accomplished release from Henry covers a lot of ground stylistically with the funky "What A Mighty God" and the Cuba-influenced "A Life Time Of Praise" sitting comfortably next to the simplistic but enjoyable old school dance track "The Jesus Song" - all of which showcase Henry and his choir's ability to pull off some stellar gospel vocal performances with ease. As the title suggests, a number of themes are touched upon with Henry offering up worship to his God in the likes of the upbeat "Zion's Praise" whilst various tracks contain assured preached passages to allow the exhortation and edification boxes to be ticked. The wide-ranging nature of the album in both a thematic and musical sense makes this an intriguing release, though some of its cheesier moments drag it down.
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