The short and sweet: Really incredible.
The detailed version: To me, this album sounds like happiness and freedom in worship. I kinda wanna put it on and go on a road trip to some outdoor Christian festival. Y’know?
The latest album from Israel Houghton, The Power of One, isn’t due in stores until March 24th, but rumblings about it have been around for months. In fact, I wrote this review at the end of January and have been chompin’ at the bit to post it– all in due time!
It’s a solo album, so the vibe is a bit different from his other stuff, but it’s still got a tinge of that “New Breed” sound to keep it familiar for us. I don’t think praise and worship teams will have much new music to copy, though, which is prolly a good thing. Y’all need to settle down. But I digress…
In addition to giving us more great music, this album succeeds in reminding us that Israel is a great songwriter, not a formulaic one-hit wonder, and an awesome vocalist (dude is SINGING on this album). And with production from Tommy Sims and Aaron Lindsey, and guest appearances from Mary Mary and tobyMac, there’s a little something for everybody.
Standout tracks for me are “Just Wanna Say,” the single that I’ve already raved about in an earlier post, “Everywhere That I Go,” a feel-good, rockin’-out kinda deal, and “Saved By Grace,” a clap and dance-worthy anthem that made me knock into a couple folks on the subway a while back. Sorry, lady! I also groove HARD to “U R Loved,” a funky track that could’ve been a hit by Earth, Wind & Fire. Oh, and “Every Prayer,” featuring Mary Mary… the folks are saaangin!
So, yeah, for the record, you’ve gotta get it when it comes out!
STAY TUNED for a stupendous CD Giveaway RIGHT HERE… coming sooner than you think. In the meantime, check out Israel talking about the song concept for his hit single, “Just Wanna Say”:
Yes sir! I can't wait to hear this project in full! I know it's going to be a highly blessed & anointed project! Thanks for sharing your insights on it!
I'm super excited about this!!!! Why is March 24th taking so long to come? :) Speaking of Israel, I do not appreciate being limited to choosing 1 album in the latest survey. A sixth choice, "All of the Above", would have been preferred :). I was forced to choose the album that introduced me to Israel & New Breed... oh well :).
I agree with you Gale-Ann! I was looking hard for that "All of the Above" choice! I just didn't feel right choosing just one, cause I like them all!
I looooove seeing you make moves, EJ. Great review. Keep it up!!!
[...] 1997, and will feature other artists like Mary Mary and tobyMac. E.J. of the Gospel Pundit did a review of the album, which you can check out. I’m excited to experience it for [...]
There is so much that comes to mind when I hear this song. First the bible shows that God has not given us the spirit of fear, but of love and a sound mind. A minister preached about how fear hinders your progress. The lyrics explain that God is with us (Emmanuel); that's beautiful. He really is omnipresent.*That's one of the reasons why I love this song so much. Our instruments and voices were made to praise God in unity....This song is a perfect example of that. Yeah, read Psalms 150. Bring out all those instruments with a positive message and watch what happens:):)
@katydid: AMEN!