STYLE: Gospel RATING OUR PRODUCT CODE: 81538-15616 LABEL: Fresh Wine FORMAT: CD Album ITEMS: 1
Reviewed by Ian Hayter
Eddie James has been recording for over 15 years now and this 12-song album showcases a selection of rip-roaring gospel praise songs penned by the man himself, although he shares credits on the title track with Matt Bushard. Eddie hass pulled together an amazing band and some pretty gifted vocalists, with Justin Washington, Sarah Garnett, Joey Jackson, Wayne Starks, Crystal White and Heather Craik taking their turns to share lead duties with the main man. Together they deliver a set that really does raise the roof. At times sounding almost chaotic, this is gospel at its most joyful and most inspirational. Beginning with "Lion Of Judah" and ending with a reprise of "Jesus Said It", the tight harmonies, raucous shouting and awesome vocal ranges power along over a thumping bass line (provided by Anthony Evans and Aaron Mayfield) and some great percussion, with a couple of relatively more reflective numbers helped along by Carla Matmati's haunting violin. This is rootsy, traditional gospel given a makeover for the 21st century by a gifted arranger and performer.
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