From the first time I heard Brian Courtney Wilson’s voice, I couldn’t help but think of some of soul music’s greatest crooners– like Sam Cooke, Otis Redding and David Ruffin. Wilson’s tone and downright in-the-pocket delivery stand out in a sea of gospel male vocalists who often substitute acrobatics for solid singing.

On his sophomore LP, So Proud, Brian Courtney Wilson affirms the very reasons we fell in love with his artistry the first go ’round– a soulful sound reminiscent of the old school, new songs that are somehow nostalgic and a message that both inspires and encourages.

Stand-out tracks for me include “Right Back,” “One Day At a Time,” “Storm In Mind,” “Perfect,” and the title track, “So Proud.” On each of these, Brian Courtney Wilson demonstrates a keen awareness of his vocal ability and range (it’s more versatile than I think we saw on his first project) and he absolutely delivers.

I encourage you to check it out and grab it. Even more, I think the industry would do well to watch Brian Courtney Wilson as he continues to grow– he’s one of those that will be in this game for a while, especially in the “next generation” of solid artists.

Listen to snippets and buy So Proud right here–

I wrote a review of Myron Butler’s new project, Worship, for gmc this go ’round. I want you to check it out right here.

Listen to snippets and buy it here:

by Mia Paylor

The Very Unofficial EP of Jonathan McReynolds
Release Date: August 2010
Website: www.jonathanmcreynolds.com

Must-Have Tracks: “No Gray”, “Why (feat. Corey Barksdale)”, “Living Your Life”, “Loving Me”

One of the most annoyingly pleasurable moments you can have as a songwriter is when you listen to a great song that you wish YOU wrote. Well, I had three of those moments while listening to The Very Unofficial EP of Jonathan McReynolds.

In the single, “No Gray,” Jonathan sings:

And if it’s You that I’m after/Then I can’t serve two masters/And before something happens/I have to turn it all around because I know you can’t just have your cake and eat it too/Cause it’s real easy to stay on the fence and still do you/And it’d be cool if we could love the Lord and still go do our thing/But see it doesn’t work like that/You gotta be white or black

Clear? Yes. Convicted? Yup, me too. Ministry happens every time you hear it. I also love the fact that the title of the song isn’t mentioned until about 10-15 seconds before the song ends so that the message resonates more than the catch phrase, so to speak.

“Why (feat. Corey Barksdale)” has an attractive simplicity. The light piano arrangement forces you to listen to what’s being said. By the time the song builds to the churchy drive at the end, you’re at a spiritual high point with Jonathan and Corey thanking Jesus for His underserved love. Jonathan and Corey have different sounds but their ad-libs are very complimentary of each other and well placed. (Note to Corey: Submit your project for a review as soon as it’s ready. Thank you. )

“Loving Me” builds like a gospel song but flows like an introspective pop-tune. The balance between the two is perfect. This EP is one of the best introductions to a new artist I’ve heard in a very long time.

Jonathan McReynolds was born and raised on the Southside of Chicago, Illinois. In addition to being the bandleader and organist for his church, he’s also a senior earning his bachelor’s degree in music at Columbia College Chicago. His single, “No Gray”, was featured on Bonnerfide Radio…and he was named one of Bonnerfide Radio’s top new artists of 2010.

Folks, we’re over a year late getting hip to the ministry and stellar artistry of Jonathan McReynolds. Let’s catch up together.

Download The Very Unofficial EP of Jonathan McReynolds today!

In this edition of In With The New, Mia Paylor introduces us to three new artists and the singles they current have available. Check it out!

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Lawrence Haynes
Current Single: “I Will Say Yes”
Website: http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/lawrencehaynes
Album Release Date: TBA

My peoples, my peoples…let me tell y’all ‘bout this young J. Moss that goes by the name of Lawrence Haynes! Hailing from New Jersey (by way of East St. Louis, Illinois), Lawrence is his own lyricist, background vocalist, arranger, producer, and engineer. “What do you don’t do?!” Lol.

After singing background vocals for folks such as Melonie Daniels and Chaz Shepherd…and working in the studio with Meaghan Williams on Bless You God, Lawrence has stepped out on his own. He’s currently recording his first solo project. But, in the meantime, Lawrence released this delightful “teaser” to keep us saying “YES” to God and “YES” to the idea of buying his CD when it’s finally available.

“I Will Say Yes” starts out traditional and churchy and then evolves into this crisp, modern groove with several transitions that keep you spiritually and musically engaged! The production is clean, the vocals are PAJAM-crisp, and the arrangement moves. The band was awesome. The music was churchy, funky, jazzy, and contemporary while remaining seamless.

Keep your eyes peeled for Lawrence Haynes…and download “I Will Say Yes” TADAY!

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Bam Travis
Current Single: “Seasons”
Website: http://bamtravis.viinyl.com
Album Release Date: TBA

“Seasons” is a contemporary reflection of God’s unchanging and unfailing love in contrast to our ever-changing circumstances. Bam Travis’ passionate, tenor timbre fit this arrangement perfectly. The song flows in the vein of an introspective Fred Hammond tune with tasteful lead guitar riffs and accurately placed vocal runs. You’ll love it.

So, who is Bam Travis?

Well, aside from being a vocalist and songwriter, this Detroit native is a graduate of World Harvest Bible College and an accomplished drummer. Bam served as a drummer at Bishop Wayne T. Jackson’s Great Faith Ministries International (who happens to be the father of actor/comedian Brandon T. Jackson). Bam also recently toured with Charlie Wilson as his drummer. And, most importantly, Bam Travis is a worshipper who’s committed himself to sharing God’s love everywhere.

Support this brutha by downloading “Seasons”…and be on the lookout for more to come from the ministry of Bam Travis.

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Teleah
Current Single: “Champion”
Website: http://teleah.weebly.com
Album Release Date: December 26, 2011 (EP/Mixtape)

Now, admittedly, I’m only a fan of exceptional Holy Hip-Hop. Nothing agitates me more than folks who sound like they’re trying to be down…trying to be cool. My “Clown” meter is very sensitive.

But, Teleah Hollingsworth has a flow that is tight, melodic, decodable, and sanctified. Her single, “Champion” shows that she has a mean pen, spits fire (Holy Ghost fire, of course), and sangs! Teleah’s vocal style is gritty, expressive, and dainty. She switches from raspy phrases to crisp, gentle ad-libs effortlessly. The title of the song pretty much explains the lyrical message within the song. And, uh, I had to be told that the track was jacked from an Ace Hood song, lol. I have no clue who that guy is. *shrugs*

Originally from Erie, Pennsylvania, Teleah honed her skills in local competitions and Praise & Worship teams. However, while living in Washington, DC, Teleah was afforded the opportunity to perform, travel, and record with Isaiah Thomas and Elements of Praise from 2007-2009 as a vocalist.

I enjoyed “Champion”. Download the free single at http://www.reverbnation.com/teleah). I also sincerely pray Teleah links up with hot producers to churn out some completely original gems for the Kingdom. If that happens, I truly believe Teleah’s ministry will go far.

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New, developing and indie artists, keep sending in your submissions for features HERE, on GospelPundit.com!

All you have to do is email Mia Paylor at InWithTheNew.MP@gmail.com for consideration!

James Fortune has made quite a name for himself over the past several years. With significant radio airplay and increased television appearances, he’s risen from “just another ensemble frontman” to one of the leading artists of the next generation in gospel music.

With his new project, Identity, James Fortune further solidifies his position and offers one of his best projects to date.

Backed by his group, FIYA, James Fortune presents a high-energy, but often heartfelt, collection of music that will appeal to a broad audience.

What stands out most for me on this 18-track album is the songwriting and lead vocals. Not only does Fortune feature numerous industry peers, from Fred Hammond and Kim Burrell to Le’Andria Johnson and Monica, he does so on songs with heightened musicality and authenticity. To be sure, some of the tunes follow a formula, but the bulk of the project is by far more experimental (and successfully so) than his previous work.

Stand-out cuts include the piano-guided title track, “Identity,” the churchy banger “Could Be Worse” (featuring Le’Andria Johnson and Zacardi Cortez on lead) and “What If,” a true-to-the-Gospel tune set to an absolutely beautiful melody. Pay special attention to “Curse Is Broken,” “Make A Sound,” featuring the incomparable vocal acrobatics of Nikki Ross, and the passionate “With You,” led by Kim Burrell.

My personal favorite on the album, however, is “Hold On,” an old school soul-vibed song of encouragement featuring awesome vocals from Monica and Fred Hammond. It’s just one of those feel-good tunes that doesn’t get old for me.

For fans of James Fortune & FIYA, this project will take your “fanship” to the next level. For naysayers or skeptics, take an open listen to it– you will be thoroughly impressed. If the rest of the new releases in 2012 follow James Fortune’s lead, we’ll be in pretty good musical hands.

Listen to snippets and pre-order right here.

This Christmas season, gospel artists are dropping Christmas singles left and right.

We’ve compiled a list of some of the must-have Christmas singles that you can download for just $.99. That makes for a happy holiday.

1. “Christmas Worship Medley” by Janice Gaines
This one is particularly dear to my heart, so it goes first. She’s my wife, but she’s also an incredible vocalist. This tune highlights her awesome range and heart for worship. I promise you’ll love it.

2. “Silent Night” by Crystal Aikin
Been missing her? Us too. She doesn’t disappoint on this tastefully acoustic-vibed classic holiday song. It’ll tide us over for now.

3. “God Rest Ye, Merry Gentlemen” by Le’Andria Johnson
The raspy, powerhouse voice of this Sunday Best winner is well supported by this jazzy arrangement. She owns it.

4. “Donnie’s Christmas Songs” by Donnie McClurkin
This is a medley of some of his favorite holiday tunes. It’s upbeat and soaring, and makes you feel like you’ve had a good ol’ Christmas in just over 3 minutes. 

5. “God Bless Us, Every One” by Crystal City, Inc.
This Nashville-based production team is comprised of brother duo Dwan Hill and Marcus Hill. They’ve released a FREE Christmas EP to demonstrate their gifts and to wish you a happy holiday. Great musicianship– get it!

6. “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas” by Melinda Watts
We’ve been eager to hear more from this dynamic vocalist and she doesn’t disappoint. Sale proceeds will benefit at-risk girls through her nonprofit org, the Dream Girlz Gathering Foundation.

7. “Angels We Have Heard On High” by Committed
The a capella winners of last season’s The Sing-Off on NBC are precisely the type of artist you want Christmas music from. And this tracks proves why.

Which ones do you have?  Which ones are you grabbing?

Melinda Doolittle, the American Idol alum that impressed the nation with impeccable vocals and a humble heart, released a Christmas tune last week, “God Bless Us Everyone.”

It’s a keeper. Feel-good, warm and classic are all hallmarks of the tune, topped with her heartfelt and passionate vocal delivery.

*runs to pour some eggnog*

In a time when GOOD Christmas music is lacking, and no one is really making classic stuff anymore, this is a must-have.

Get it–

Quiet as it’s kept, B Reith has got to be one of GospelPundit.com’s favorite artists because of his style and sound, but also because of his innovation and refusal to be boxed in. We’ve covered him before and, though he’s not as widely known in the gospel industry, he’s someone you ought to know about!

B just finished several dates on the MisFit Tour, which featured Da’ T.R.U.T.H., The Ambassador, Mali Music and more. His latest album, How The Story Ends is in stores TODAY.

The 12-track project features B Reith in his sing-song style of hip-hop and soul. He’s both a gifted rapper and vocalist, and he beautifully weaves the two together. B could definitely have let this project be a one-man show, and it would have been great, but he’s got enough smarts to know that two heads (and sometimes three) are better than one, so the project features guest vocals from heavy-hitters like Lecrae, as well as underground faves like Lisa Gungor and PJ Morton.

Standout tracks on this project abound, but some of my faves are “For Once In My Life” with PJ Morton, “New Found Love,” and “Made for More” with Lecrae and Lisa Gungor.  Look out, also, for “2 Steps Forward” and “Not Who I Am” featuring Dave Barnes.

Check out snippets of How The Story Ends and buy it right here, right now–

In stores today is Kierra Sheard’s Free, an urban and pop-themed praise and worship album featuring tons of energy, inimitable vocal acrobatics and Kierra’s BRL Choir. With it, she stands firmly in a space of gospel music that may not have even existed previously, and she sets the bar for others to follow, if they can.

Kierra’s first release on her parents’ label, Karew Records, Free is intricately produced by her brother, J Drew Sheard II, and was recorded live in Chicago earlier this year.

Fans will appreciate her cover of Chris Tomlin’s ”Indescribable,” the playfully melodic “People,” and the whimsical choir cut “Victory,” which features James Fortune (it’s my personal fave on the project).

Other standout tracks include the hard-driving single “You Are,” the pop-flavored “War,” with a chorus that reminds me a bit of something the Black Eyed Peas might do, “Since I Found Christ” with Mali Music, and the title track, “Free.”

Kierra Sheard has said that this album is her best to date, implying that it represents her better than any other. Consumers may be surprised to hear that, as many considered her 2006 sophomore album, This Is Me, to be sonically definitive of her artistry. Or, at least we want it to be.

But it’s clear– on Free, Kierra is probably most “herself.” She is vulnerable and transparent, at times absolutely overcome with emotion and tears as she worships God or challenges the crowd to a lifestyle of holiness.

Undoubtedly, Free is a musical wonderland with plenty to take in. I had to listen repeatedly to even get a sense of all that was happening. Still, I can’t help but wonder if a segment of her earlier audience will feel a bit lost among the complicated melodies and arrangements.

For those expecting an urban album, this isn’t it. For those expecting a churchy project, it isn’t that, either. Free is the recorded result of a live worship experience featuring Kierra and the BRL Choir singing songs as imaginative as they could dream, reaching out to a God as mighty, but as personal, as He is.

Free is in stores NOW. Listen to snippets and/or buy it right here–

Shirley Murdock’s new album, The Journey, is a 17-track collection of music with an underlying theme of encouragement running through them. It’s solid, though perhaps not astounding, as a demonstration of great vocals and heartfelt ministry.

With Grammy Award winner Cedric Thompson at the helm of production (Donald Lawrence,Karen Clark Sheard, LeJuene Thompson), The Journey is the culmination of the first live recording of Murdock’s career. And it’s packed with powerhouse vocals from favorites in gospel and mainstream music, including Kelly Price, Beverly Crawford and Regina Belle.

Standout tracks on The Journey include the urban soul-tinged groove “It’s In Your Hands,” ”Upward Way” featuring Regina Belle, and “Lord You Reign,” a building and beautiful worship chorus.

Also, look out for “He Is the Rock,” on which Beverly Crawford outright shines with Murdock, the piano-driven “Keep Lovin’ Me,” which features the incomparable Kelly Price on guest vocals, and the project’s inspiring first single, “Dream.”

Given her success as a touring mainstream artist, it seems that a live set like this would’ve come earlier. Murdock is a natural as she interacts with the audience. Her sweet and genuine personality translates beautifully to this album and leaves you just plain old enjoying her.

My only qualms with the project are that some of the songwriting could have been a bit stronger and, at the height of some of the singers’ ranges, there was audio distortion in the mix. Still, Murdock’s vocals do a great job of making a lot of the songs work well and it’s a pretty good offering.

The Journey hits stores on October 18, 2011 (Tyscot Records), but you can listen and pre-order it right now, right here–