STYLE: Gospel RATING OUR PRODUCT CODE: 83705-16874 LABEL: 5099951283421 FORMAT: CD Album RELEASE DATE: 2009-11-06 RRP: £13.00
Reviewed by Keren Perrott
The award-winning, Detroit-born diva has 40 years of experience in belting out soul-drenched acclamations of faith. Her latest offering, a collaboration with renowned gospel producer Donald Lawrence, brings Vanessa's discography bang up to date. Armstrong has stated that working with Lawrence meant the singer felt relaxed and able to draw on "the old Vanessa", which goes some way to explain the richness of the album, a powerful testimony to her journey of faith set to traditional and contemporary gospel sounds. The live recording in Chicago, Illinois, provides the perfect backdrop for Armstrong to remind her audience of how she came to be where she is today; "Hand Of The Lord" depicts Armstrong's life story and points the crowd firmly in the direction of God's sovereignty. Influence from other gospel maestros is never far away; Armstrong duets superbly with Rance Allen on the praise track "You Bring Out The Best In Me" and a soulful "Any Way You Bless Me" is an apt tribute to the late great Thomas Whitfield, who wrote the track and collaborated with Armstrong on her debut release in 1984. 'The Experience' will inspire joy in those who are joyful and bring empathy to those who are suffering. This is powerful ministry from one of gospel's all-time greats.
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Product Description
Four time Grammy nominee, Vanessa Bell Armstrong, gears up to release The Experience, produced by her #1 fan, the incomparable Donald Lawrence. Recorded live, Vanessa & Donald go back to basics with church friendly Gospel offerings including the lead singl, “Good News” which features Vanessa’s signature vocal runs that made her a #1 selling Gospel artist. The Experience also features “The Best In Me,” a duet with Gospel Music icon Rance Allen & new live versions of 2 of her greatest hits, “The Denied Stone” and “Peace Be Still.” With the genius production touch of Donald Lawrence, The Experience is poised to become Vanessa’s most successful release to date.