Let me try to explain this. As near as I can tell, "Nicholas" is actually a whole bunch of people. Before I got this album, I had never heard of Nicholas, and I really wish I knew why, because this is one talented group of singers and musicians.
There isn't a lot of jumping up and down in this album, but it certainly delivers on the "inspirational" promise! It has a nice, laid-back, jazzy kind of sound, with a good vocal range and quiet praise.
The group utilizes a wide range of instrumentation, with some very interesting synthesizer work and stirring solos on the saxophone and the trumpet. While you may recognize some of the titles, ("It Is Well With My Soul" for instance) I doubt you've ever heard them done quite this way before.
Overall, the album is a unique and interesting mix of traditional Black Gospel and synthesized Jazz. There are several introductory monologues, with the lead-in to "The Closer I Get to You," being a real stand-out. I guarantee you never quite thought of that song as a hallmark of "family values," but Nicholas will change your mind. And the long monologue prior to the invitation that closes the album takes on some very serious social and spiritual issues.
Similar sounding releases
2004Pastor Rudolph McKissick Jr. / The Word and Worship Mass ChoirWhat a Time!
1998Rev. Milton Brunson's Thompson Community SingersFifty Blessed Years
1998Shirley CaesarChristmas With Shirley Caesar
1993BeBe & CeCeFirst Christmas
1995CeCe WinansAlone In His Presence
1993Crystal LewisThe Bride
