JJ Hairston & Youthful Praise boldly return to the gospel scene with their fifth album, Resting On His Promise, due in stores this Tuesday, September 1st.  From this 12-track project, two things are abundantly clear to me– the choir is establishing itself as the contemporary choir standard, and it’s only getting better with time.

There’s plenty to love on this album– from the great songwriting to the talented band and excellent production.  What I appreciate most, however, is that JJ Hairston & YP are able to significantly contribute to the progression and development of the choral genre, while respecting the foundation upon which it is based.

It’s clear in the varied, but cohesive, styles of songs on the project.  YP easily navigates the rock-infused “Hear Me Lord,” the staggering worship ballad “Awesome Wonder,” and the jazz-laced “Still Mighty, Still Strong,” with vocals from powerhouse Dorinda Clark-Cole.  But they remind us that they’re more than capable of mastering the traditional “High Praise,” featuring the legendary Pastor Shirley Caesar, and the downright churchy “You Can Make It.”

Other stand-out tracks are “Great Expectation,” a timely single-worthy song of encouragement featuring Myron Butler, “Powerful God,” with jaw-dropping ad libs from YP’s own David McClure, “Lord You’re Beautiful,” with the boundless Lorraine Stancil leading the vamp, and the title track (and current single), “Resting On His Promise” featuring Bishop Eric McDaniel.

More than catchy songs, the album’s message of trusting in God is timely, encouraging and full of life.  I urge readers to not regard this project as “just another choir album.”  Resting On His Promise is definitely worth a listen (and probably a purchase) from any lover of gospel music.

The project is available everywhere on September 1st, but you can pre-order it NOW by clicking on the image to your right. >>>

I got me a nifty Facebook event invite to the JJ Hairston & Youthful Praise live recording.

Y’all prolly did, too, huh?  Whatever.

The recording is on Sunday, March 15th at 6pm (doors open at 5pm) at Cathedral of Praise COGIC in Bridgeport, CT.  Special guests will include Lorraine Stancil, William Murphy, Angela Spivey and Dorinda Clark-Cole. *picking out my outfit now*

Tickets are $10 in advance, $15 at the door.  Get details and what not at their website: www.youthfulpraise.org.

Should be good.  Anyone else thinkin’ about going???