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For The Record: Vanessa Bell Armstrong - The Experience

by EJ on Oct.05, 2009 at 3:25 pm, under Music

The newest project from Vanessa Bell Armstrong is due in stores tomorrow and this time around, the formula seemed destined for success– take one of the cornerstone voices of contemporary gospel music and let one of the most gifted producers in the game work the record.  On The ExperienceArmstrong reminds us why she’s a legend and Donald Lawrence again demonstrates that he has the midas touch in this industry.

Musically, this 13-track project moves well– from the jazz-laced traditional tunes to worshipful ballads with the rousing vamps that Armstrong is known for riffing and roaring through.  Lyrically, the songs encourage and reassure– something that the Body seems to need in this season.

For VBA fans, the purchase of this album is a no-brainer– it’s a salute to her signature style and you won’t be disappointed.  For folks who’ve merely heard of her (or perhaps, only know that they’re supposed to appreciate her), check out this project– it provides a nice snapshot of her abilities by way of relevant and timely songs with masterful production.

Stand-out tracks for me: a modernized version of her 1980’s hit, “You Bring Out The Best In Me,” featuring a staggering vocal duet with Rance Allen and background vocals so sweet that you don’t want them to end; “Greater,” an ever-building declaration about the power of God that rests in each of us; “Hand Of The Lord,” a grand track with Donald Lawrence’s signature sound all over it (think of swelling background vocals and a beautiful, yet simple, melody); and “The Greatest Power” an encouraging testament to God’s omnipotence and our the peace that comes from trusting in Him.  Of course, I’m also still enjoying her single, “Good News.”

A part of me wanted to see her venture out more, perhaps to be challenged (musically) by blending her signature style with some new styles of gospel music (maybe a track with a Caribbean twist or something).  At the same time, however, it means more to me that Armstrong has rendered an album that showcases her classic sound without musical missteps.  She stayed in her lane and the project is really good because of it.

Vanessa Bell Armstrong has successfully captured a more-than-impressive live set.  In sum, The Experience is just that… even more, it’s a musical journey worth a purchase.

For your convenience, you can pre-order the project now by clicking here.

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6 comments for this entry:
  1. Byron

    I’ll be on it at midnite!!! You wrote this one here! :)

  2. matthew5and9

    Ok, EJ. I know you are not skipping out on “Help”. That song was blazing at the recording session. Of course one cannot say every song is a favorite, however that one stood out. They were trying to get past it but the Holy Spirit was in the house and that one really worked for Vanessa. It’s an excellent cd. I’ll have to rotate this one YP’s Still Mighty, Still Strong and J. Moss’ Holy One.

  3. NY

    Man, I gotta get this album too…..Gospel artists are going crazy right now putting out all these album around the same time, don’t they know it’s a recession, lol, I aint got all this money to be buying all these albums……. betta start working over time, lol!

  4. Joe

    Vanessa Bell Armstrong and Donald Lawrence are quite the dynamic duo! I have this CD on repeat (listening to it right now)… I keep saying that I’m just gonna listen to one or two tracks, but I keep ending up playing the entire thing… It’s that good! This is definitely an anointed set that’s a worthy addition to your music collection.

  5. Glenda

    Haaaaaa!!! NY you said it!! That song she sang on TBN the other night had me at the first note. Gotta get this one soon… I’ll just have to get one every pay day til I have all the ones I need! LOL!

  6. Evangelist Gail Preston

    I purchased this cd WOW it is AWESOME!!! I love mighty women of God.

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