I must admit that I was totally unprepared when I first listened to this album. I expected to hear some light, fluffy pop-needless to say, I was very wrong. Instead, the album is set primarily in a jazz setting, with several heavy gospel and R&B influences being felt.
The first half of the album is definitely jazz based, with slight pop tendencies. "Don't Worry" and "Little Jackie," with jazzy and almost scat-like vocals, encourage us to trust the Lord and to live to show the people of the world what they need, despite their mocking. "The Mother and the Bride" basks in the wonder that God calls us his bride and how He will take us home. The most jazz-like tune, however, is "Jesus Belongs in Your Heart," which encourages a friend to accept The Lord.
"You'll Be Back For Me" is a sort of pop-rock tune, which is followed by "Holy Place," a straight-ahead gospel track. Lewis plays well off the gospel choir providing good energy.
Most of the lyrics were penned by Lewis and husband/producer Brian Ray. They are direct and accessible, primarily expressing thanks for the wondrous aspects of God's expressions of love towards us, and the comfort we feel in return.
Lewis' vocals are crisp, enunciated wonderfully, and versatile-blending with the jazzy and turning more soulful on the gospel-ish tunes without straining. The only drawback on the album is that even though the versions are completely distinct (one being a very soulful acapella version with the other a more reserved jazzy rendition), and truly enjoyable in their own right, two recordings of "Amazing Grace" on the same project was still a little awkward. Apart from this, the project shines with a unique musical setting.
Similar sounding releases
1994Janet PaschalJourney of Grace
1995CeCe WinansAlone In His Presence
1993BeBe & CeCeFirst Christmas
1995Amy MorrissI'm A Believer
1995Clay CrosseTime to Believe
2004Nicole C. MullenLive From Cincinnati, Bringin' It Home
