It doesn't raise many eyebrows when you mention that a new male vocalist has just released a debut project. But when you mention that this particular artist has recorded #1 hits with the legendary group The Imperials, and stepped into Michael English's spot with the Gaither Vocal Band, it definitely gets a few more heads turning.
Jonathan Pierce has done all the above and has now decided to step out on his own-a big step in an industry that is limited by the number of male stars it can support. However, after a listen to Pierce's new project, One Love, he is clearly ready for the challenge.
On the surface, this project seemed to be begging for problems. Pierce has always been surrounded by quality voices with The Imperials and the Gaither Vocal Band. He also carries a powerful booming voice, which for other artists has caused some difficulties in providing variation in a ten-song collection. One Love carries three different producers which could lead to an inconsistent sound. He is also the first Christian solo artist from Curb, a mainstream label which has Michael English singing secular music and also features Christian rockers Whiteheart.
Rest assured, however, One Love avoids all those pitfalls very nicely. It is a quality project that introduces a quality artist in Jonathan Pierce.
The title track is a stirring power ballad that shows Pierce's wonderful vocal range and smooth soulful delivery. Produced by Michael Omartian, the cut sets the stage for the complete project. There is a smooth musical flow with plenty of keyboards, horns, and strings. It also adds the right amount of background vocals to give the song a fuller dimension. The lyrics are equally powerful:
With one love Heaven changed the world forever And no heart will ever be the same One hope was born to save us And one faith lives to make us stronger With one love
Omartian also gives his producing efforts on three other songs for Pierce, including "Only Believe," written by Michael O'Brien. It is a snappy number with an up-tempo beat, which gives Pierce a chance to unleash his vocals at full range. Again, plenty of solid background vocals are provided, allowing Pierce to stretch out his delivery a bit.
Omartian gave Pierce a hand in putting together a song called "Bring It On Back," which was originally a secular love song. With the writing help of his new wife, Denise Hildreth, Pierce changed some lyrics to produce a song about the importance of love and commitment in a husband/wife relationship.
Probably the surprise hit of the CD is an old Stevie Wonder song called "Heaven Is Ten Zillion Light Years Away." Produced by Guy Roche (Celine Dion and Michael Bolton) the song has a deep R&B groove with a hint of that 70's musical sound. Pierce works the song skillfully with a wide range of vocal levels. The lyrics are the kind that anyone can relate to and ask the question, "Why does everyone act as if heaven is so far away and is only for the perfect of heart?"
They say that heaven is Ten zillion light years away And just the pure at heart Will walk the righteous streets someday They say that heaven is Ten zillion light years away I know there is a God We need him now "Where are you, God" That's what my friends ask me And I say it's taken Him so long Because we've got so far to come...
Roche also produced one of two songs that Pierce says was inspired by his wife, Denise, "Commitment Of The Heart," a solid pop song that could possibly cross over to secular play. Pierce's vocal tempo on this one will actually remind some of British pop superstar Rick Astley. Pierce lends some writing support in the up-tempo pop tune, "Love So Strong." It serves as a wonderful celebratory vehicle which allows the listener to get excited about the wonderful, awesome love of God.
Love can move mountains Right any wrong Love will surround us Give us strength to go on Love conquers all Picks me up when I fall It's holding me where I belong Love so strong
Those who are looking for a project that carries a nice blend of upbeat Christian pop songs and stirring inspirational ballads will find a fresh and inspiring sound from Jonathan Pierce in One Love.
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