TAMELA MANN - GOTTA KEEP MOVIN'
What a voice! What an anointing! Tamela Mann is no stranger to the gospel music industry. For years we've seen her throwin down with Kirk Franklin and the Family and recently we've seen her cuttin up with Tyler Perry aka Madea and Crew. She's finally got a CD of her own and what a treat it is! With writing credits going to David Mann, Tyler Perry, Myron Butler (who also serves as producer, musician and background vocalist) and a few others, the music showcased on this CD fits Mann's vocals perfectly. She shows great control when needed, and takes us to church like we know she's capable of doing. Please believe me when I say that Speak Lord is one of my favorite songs released recently. Props to her Madea's Family Reunion and Meet The Browns co-star Terrell Carter for his work on this track. PICK HITS: Alright, Speak Lord, Hallelujah, Praise Medley

MARY MARY - A MARY MARY CHRISTMAS
out of 5
Written By: Krystal Lynch - Raleigh, NC
Just one year after their third studio album, the Campbell sisters, Tina and Erica, better known as Mary Mary, are back with a collection of Christmas classics and contemporary holiday songs. Mary Mary's signature powerhouse voices go full throttle for this holiday outing; but sometimes, less is more. If you are the kind of person who likes the classic Christmas songs sung the traditional way, you may be disappointed as Mary Mary take liberties with "Merry Little Christmas" (I'm surprised it's not spelled "Mary"), "O Come All Ye Faithful," "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing," and "Carol of the Bells." Let me break it down. "Merry Little Christmas," a melancholy but lovely standard, starts out soft and pleasant but is greatly oversung at the end. This song does not need to be sung in full voice, even if Tina and Erica are more than capable. The arrangement of "O Come All Ye Faithful" takes a departure into African tribal territory reminiscent of The Lion King, while "Hark!" experiments with some unusual melodies. "Carol of the Bells," loved for its succinct phrasing and exquisite harmony, sounds quite underwhelming set to a laid back groove. If Mary Mary could have over song anything, "Carol" should have been the one. However, the ladies do provide us with some original gems to cherish. Emotive "Still the Lamb" is the most worshipful cut including narration and a full choir. "The Real Thing" rings with contemporary sensibilities that speak to a generation far removed from the true meaning of Christmas ("He's more than a holiday"). Also the remix of "California Christmas" bounces and skips along while extolling the virtues of Christmas on the West Coast ("It's a beautiful day and the sun is shining/ The family's all here and the baby's smiling"). Though there are several head-scratching moments, Mary Mary fans will most likely enjoy this new addition to the duo's catalogue. PICK HITS: Still the Lamb, The Real Thing, California Christmas (Remix)

MARY MARY - MARY MARY
After a 3-year absence from recording to do the marriage and motherhood thing, my girls Tina and Erica are back with their 3rd self-titled release. Mary Mary contains 11 tracks that leave me with mixed emotions. Why? Glad ya asked. After being spoiled with jam after jam [can get through the first 9 tracks without pressing fast forward) on the Incredible CD, I've only found maybe 5-6 tracks that suit me this time around. This CD starts out hot and simmers down quite a bit as it moves toward the end. Warryn Campbell handles most of the production as before, but noticeably absent is a contribution from the Darkchild (Rodney Jerkins) camp. Kirk Franklin makes a guest appearance on And I. Even though my emotions are mixed, I'm just glad to have new music from my girls. They're still sangin up a storm! Hopefully the wait won't be as long for the next project. PICK HITS: Believer, Heaven, The Real Party, Yesterday, Love You That Much, Stand Still, Speak To Me

GARY MAYES & NU ERA - DIARY OF A STRONG SOULJAH (2007)
Written By: Louis Williams - Washington, DC
out of 5
PICK HITS: Hit The Deck, Wait On Him, We Owe U More, U Did It
They say "things grow bigger in Texas" so we expected nothing but big things with the pending release of independent artists Gary Mayes and Nu Era's latest double-disc opus, Diary of a Strong Souljah. Since 2001, this group has appeared on the radar with 2 full quality releases and appearances on various compilations. Chronicling the group's 4 year absence from the industry and various trials that has brought Mayes from struggle to victory, Strong Soulja employs a formula from previous Nu Era projects, namely power ballads interspersed with hard knockin' jams featuring Mayes' Kirk Franklinesque call and response vocals. Originally released independently and now distributed nationally through Light Records, the project features vocal contributions from the likes of B.B. Jay, Nikki Ross, Nakitta Clegg, Jonathan Dunn, Gene Moore and Kathy Taylor Brown. Ignoring the standards for radio only having the heart of the consumer in mind, Mayes opts to allow most of the disc's 17 tracks to extend beyond normal play (thus the double disc). If I had to make one constructive criticism along those lines, I'd say that the Mint Condition-like intro on "Word From The Father" could have been cut short. Still, while the extended-play option doesn't work for everyone, the flow of the material and the atmosphere from track to track is so engaging that you almost forget that almost 2 hours has passed at the discs' end. After one listen, you'll be glad you took this musical journey. ADDITIONAL PICK HITS: I Think I Can/I Kno I Can, This Joy

JUDITH MCALLISTER - IN HIS PRESENCE LIVE!
out of 5
If there's one artist (though she doesn't prefer that term) who has been consistent in her craft, it's Judith McAllister. From her work with the West Angeles Saints in Praise series, to work on two projects of her own, she has excelled in giving us music not only to praise God, but music that causes us to worship. Her latest CD In His Presence Live! is no exception. Recorded live in January of this year, and offered through her new label home, Artemis Gospel, this CD features the awesome power ballad One Thing, the Caribbean flavored Zion Rejoice and the fun Bless The Lord Oh My Soul (He's Worthy). Hallelu! Hallelu! I must say, I'm not too crazy about the album version of the latter song with its added lyrics and movements. I prefer the pre-release edited version. McAllister also revisits Like The Dew from a previous release and adds a new twist. P&W leaders across the country will love this one. What an incredible session this was! Kudos also to Michael Bereal, who is proving to be quite the producer and music director. PICK HITS: We Sing Your Praise, One Thing, Bless Thou The Lord Oh My Soul (Anthem), Bless The Lord Oh My Soul/He's Worthy, Zion Rejoice, I Live To Worship You

LISA MCCLENDON - LIVE FROM THE HOUSE OF BLUES
out of 5
With each release (this being her third), Lisa McClendon continues to build a solid fan base. This, her 2nd release for Integrity Gospel and first live project, should continue that trend. Recorded Live at the House of Blues in New Orleans, while McClendon was 8 months pregnant, this CD, while enjoyable, took some getting used to. I can't exactly put my finger on what throws me about this particular project. Maybe it?s due to her being real pitchy on some songs and/or the fact that Move on Over being released as a first single did not make me want to rush out and buy this one. I really enjoyed the cover of the Winans' Uphold Me. PICK HITS: But For Eternity, You Can, Uphold Me, Who Can Love You More

DONNIE MCCLURKIN - PSALMS, HYMNS & SPIRITUAL SONGS
Written By: Roderick Meadows - Atlanta, GA
The long-awaited double CD from Donnie McClurkin is indeed a mixed bag, running the gamut from traditional "old-school" songs from Grandmother's church to inspirational R&B. Donnie leaves no musical stone unturned during this live project recorded last year at The Rock Church in Virginia Beach. Although not as spectacular as his previous "Live in London and More" offering, Psalms, Hymns and Spiritual Songs will definitely speak to your soul, fueled by Donnie's soulful vocals and his infamous background ensemble. Added attractions include appearances by Gospel mainstays Kirk Franklin, Richard Smallwood and Joann Rosario. PICK HITS: I Call You Faithful, Total Praise & Ooh Child.

DARLENE MCCOY - DARLENE MCCOY (2007)
Written By: Kenisha Ringgold - Newark, DE
out of 5
PICK HITS: If There Was No You, I Adore You, Fallen in Love, Be With You
This year has illuminated several promising female artists who could be poised to take over the game. Darlene McCoy may be one to add to the list of contenders. It doesn't hurt that EMI went all out featuring great production from Tommy Sims, Dallas Austin, PAJAM, Fred Jerkins, Antonio Neal and PJ Morton. The effect is a compilation featuring drop top cuts, soulful praise & worship songs, mellow ballads and even a little bit of disco. The eclectic collection of songs is held together by the strength of Darlene's vocals. Her vocal range and pliability morph into whatever style is needed to fit the track. The first single If There Were No You, settles Darlene's relaxed vocals next to a mellow PAJAM joint. Another winner is Believe, it is an upbeat summer time jam and it starts the record out perfectly; though it cannot escape musical and even vocal comparisons to much of the Jerkins work on Kierra "Kiki" Sheard's last project. Simply Because displays PJ Morton's signature warm horns, and easy old school vibe. Darlene brings a sensibility for the relaying meaning and intent of the song. One of the standouts, I Adore You, is adorned with soft strings, layered vocals, and piano. What I didn't get is why that beautiful song is followed by a remake of, I Want to Thank You, the classic by Alicia Myers. It was jarring after listening to I Adore You and it took me right out of the record. Her latest self-titled EMI release is a great template for making great urban inspirational music. I can only hope that future projects will innovate and lyrically challenge her first effort.

STEVEN MCCOY & GREATER PURPOSE - STRIVIN DA STRUGGLE
out of 5
2004 saw the release of one my favorite independent artist CD's. Baltimore, Maryland's Steven McCoy and Greater Purpose and their debut project Strivin' Da Struggle is definitely a winner in my book. I've been so busy listening to it all this time, that I forgot to actually review it (no, not really). In all seriousness, this singing aggregation covered quite a few bases -- contemporary (No Doubt, We Worship You), praise & worship (Great & Mighty, Draw Me) and even a touch of jazz (My Soul Says Yes). Track after track, hit after hit, there's bound to be something here for you to enjoy. One would wonder though, it sounds like most of the vocals were recorded in falsetto (or with great control) -- on the next CD, we want to hear y'all SANG for real! Put some stank on it. Just jokes. Special guest appearances by Natalie Wilson & Jason Nelson. PICK HITS: No Doubt, Faith, My Soul Says Yes, Desire, Love, Heaven Belongs To You, We Worship You, The Blood, When I Get Home, The Presence

DARRELL MCFADDEN & THE DISCIPLES - I'VE GOT A RIGHT
out of 5
Groups like the 7 Sons of Soul, The Soul Seekers and Darrell McFadden & The Disciples have made quartet music more appealing to today's generation. The days of jherri curls, excessive jewelry and loud colored suits are long gone (are they? I don't really know lol). Their new project I've Got A Right is an interesting mix. Tracks like Calling Me, Who'll Be A Witness (featuring Coko Gamble of SWV) and Spirit Now sound like music by the mainstream male groups from back in the day, while songs like Shackles, Hold On and Be Ready are straight quartet -- once you hit the vamp (or the drive as most would call it), you're headed for a Holy Ghost fit. This type of music isn't necessarily at the top of my play list, but I enjoyed this. PICK HITS: Be Ready, I Believe, Hold On, Who'll Be A Witness, Shackles, Oh How I Love Jesus/Further Along

MEN OF STANDARD - SURROUNDED
out of 5
10 years in the game, 5 albums in, on a new label (Sony Urban), and now down to 3 members, Men of Standard is back with their new project Surrounded. In all honesty, not since their debut and sophomore projects have I completely vibed with an entire MOS CD from start to finish. All of that changes with this release. With Warryn "Baby Dubb" Campbell at the helm of production, and with writing help from the likes of Erica & Tina Campbell (Mary Mary), Gerald Haddon and Eric Dawkins, the material consists of the hot urban bangers we've come to expect from this group, power ballads (though Surrounded is the title track, the song Cover Me is MY personal favorite) and even a lil reggae and heavy metal. It is a perfect fit for a group of brothers that can flat out SANG! From the guest appearances (Heavy D, Tye Tribbett & Kirk Franklin) to the packaging, to the way each track flows seamlessly into the next, everything about this release is top notch. With 10 tracks in all, Surrounded is, "to borrow" a phrase from of one my younger colleagues, the BUSINESS! What more needs to be said? PICK HITS: I Will, Power, Alright, Everybody, Cover Me, Surrounded, Last Time, I Need You, Yours, Latter Rain

VASHAWN MITCHELL - BELIEVE IN YOUR DREAMS
There are certain artist that can get my money without me having to hear a sample of their latest project. VaShawn Mitchell is one. Having two independent projects under his belt and several songs on projects from everybody and their mama, VaShawn has quickly become one of my favorite artists. This latest release finds him on the Tyscot record label. The same patented grooves and signature ballads that he's become known for are here. Believe in Your Dreams features a guest appearance by Evangelist Monique Walker on the moving track Your Tears Have Paid Off. Don't sleep on this one! PICK HITS: No Way, Dreams, Good News, Grace and Mercy, Lost In His Presence, Your Tears Have Paid Off

LUCINDA MOORE - SELF TITLED
out of 5
Time spent behind the scenes supporting other artists has prepared Bridgeport, Connecticut's Lucinda Moore for her own debut on Tyscot Records. Moore's self-titled debut project allows us to hear up close --- and see center stage on the accompanying DVD --- what she has spent years preparing and perfecting. Recorded live in Connecticut and produced by VaShawn Mitchell, the project features mostly traditional material with a touch of the contemporary here and there. Noteworthy tracks include Celebrate, Balm in Gilead and Already Done, which features a guest appearance from Daryl Coley. Other highlights include her cover of Darius Brooks' Safe In His Arms and medley of down home, old fashioned "devotional service" songs on the track Going To Church, which also features a throwback to the Institutional COGIC Radio Choir's Pressing My Way. Now that her first recording (not counting her independently released EP) is done and has been finally released, here's hoping that the second hardest working woman next to Vickie Winans will now step into her time to shine. We're looking forward to a sophomore project that will show more attention to production details such as vocal overdubs (both lead and background) and mixing. PICK HITS: Celebrate, Balm in Gilead, Holy, Safe In His Arms, Going To Church (Medley)

TONY MOORE & JEHOVAH'S CHOSEN (TMJC) - ACTION FIGURES
out of 5
Written By: Louis Williams - Washington, DC
Back in 2000, Philadelphia, PA artists Tony Moore and his then dubbed choir Jehovah's Chosen hit the scene with their unique presentation of contemporary gospel with their independent project "Love Lifted Me" with four hit singles ("Love Lifted Me", "The Rock", "He's Sweet I Know", and "King Glory") in tow. I don't think the industry was ready for what they had to offer and though not heavily active on the industry scene, quietly under the radar over the next couple of years Moore and crew with its varied membership stayed busy working in non-traditional venues (doing club dates and backing various artists) honing their musical craft. Now 7 years later, revamped and now going by the name TMJC, the group is ready to go beyond the four walls of the church with their long-awaited sophomore project "Action Figures: New Wave Disciples". Consisting of 13 tracks, Action Figures offers an interesting mix of music. The challenge comes in deciding what songs fit your musical tastes. It seems like just when you're settling into the nice choir/ensemble grooves of "Another Chance", "Love. Peace. Prosperity." and "Mahogany", you're thrown into left field with songs like the title track "Action Figures", "Soldjas We're Marching" and "Revolution". This is what makes the group unique though, their ability to shake things up musically (even if to some, there's a lil' too much shakin' going on). Though many have now adopted their musical style and it's much more widely accepted, TMJC's return to the industry is welcomed. If you're tired of the same ole, same ole, give this disc a spin. Cross Movement artist Da Truth, drummer extraordinaire Sheila E., and up coming songbird Jasmine Sullivan make guest appearances. PICK HITS: "Another Chance", "Eclipse Moon", "Finally", "Love. Peace. Prosperity.", "Mahogany", "Super Hero", "Trust and Obey"

BISHOP PAUL S. MORTON - STILL STANDING
out of 5
Written By: Dan Walker, III - Newport News, VA
Recorded in the city that we all know was greatly devastated by the fury of Hurricane Katrina, this latest musical effort by the Bishop is a testimony to his strength and tenacity as well as those who are yet still overcoming the losses on that fateful storm. It seems to be his goal to assure us of this in his opening cut for which this project was aptly named. Produced and primarily written by Kurt Carr, the live experience that you expect is present. The background vocals are on point throughout, having been provided by the Greater St. Stephens combined choirs and The Kurt Carr Studio Crew. Each song in some way speaks of victory and gives credit to the Lord for His restoration and deliverance. One such example is "Oh Hallelujah (It's Over Now)" which has a shared lead by Bishop's daughter, Jasmine Morton-Ross. Other family members appear as guests on the CD as well. His son, PJ Morton appears with credits for keyboard and organ. His brother Bishop James Morton contributes lead on "If it wasn't for Your Grace" and his sister Gwendolyn Morton who assists in a two-song tribute to Thomas "The Maestro" Whitfield that focus on the Cross and the blood of Christ. From there the atmosphere transitions into a sweet time of worship with the awesome "Holy Medley". The medley features "Agnus Dei" written by CCM artist Michael W. Smith, a reintroduction of "Bow Down" which initially appeared on a previous release by the Full Gospel Baptist Mass Choir, and closes with the splendid Hawkins classic, "Holy One". The incomparable Tramaine Hawkins is granted lead vocals on this tune and, true to form, squalls like it's her last time. It's fairly easy to imagine why a praise break immediately follows. I can appreciate the mix of new songs as well as the revisit of others that we know and love. They are all Sunday morning friendly. Be prepared to receive encouragement for the storms you may have faced. You should find yourself "Still Standing" at the end of this 15-track album. PICK HITS: I'm Still Standing, Not Me Lord, You, Holy Medley, Be Blessed

J MOSS - V3...
out of 5
Written By: Dan Walker, III - Newport News, VA
Having developed an impressive catalogue of artists for whom he has produced hit after hit throughout the gamut of the musical stratosphere, James L. Moss released his debut CD in 2004. He entered the scene as an artist to critical kudos and a new band of fans that could now experience the voice in full luminosity. Now he returns with a follow-up that will only broaden his audience. No sophomore jinx here, the release is solid. Full of lush R&B-laced ballads and strong resonating urban vibes, the CD is sure to quench the thirst for relevant messages of hope and truth while nodding and snapping your fingers. It seems there must be no end to the creativity that lies within the PAJAM camp. The groovy bass line of "Dance", is reminiscent of the 80s, features Gospel Music icon Kirk Franklin. It bids that you move something while encouraging the listener to dance and cry no more. Other musical guests are A-listers: Kierra KiKi Sheard with 21:03, Anthony Hamilton, Marvin L. Winans, Byron Cage, "pda" of PAJAM, and Karen Clark-Sheard. "Praise on the Inside", "Abundantly", and "Holding On" displays Moss's solo artistry, allowing him to croon with little instrumentation and lyrics that once again prove his knack for writing songs that reach the heart. Giving a hearty balance to the project are banging up-tempo numbers that thump the speakers but don't offer watered down, cookie-cutter topics. An unforeseen moment of laughter and intrigue is the "Steve Harvey Show Interlude" which reveals recordings from back-in-the-day from a very young though definitely talented J. Moss. It serves as an intro to what I feel is the highlight of the disc, which would be the hidden treasures, tucked away in the Bonus medley "Florida". The one-track medley contains three (3) individually intense songs. Three different messages, three different flows. An interesting finish that seems to suggest that there is more music in the portfolio and therefore more music to come. PICK HITS: "Dance", "Abundantly", "Praise on The Inside", "Afraid", "Nobody", "Florida"

J. MOSS - THE J. MOSS PROJECT
What more can be said about J. Moss, that hasn't already been said? The man writes, sings and produces. A musical genius? Depends on who you ask. After waiting for what seems like an eternity, the J. Moss Project is finally here. From the head-banging tracks that PAJAM has become known for, to the heartfelt ballads that find J singin his face off -- they're all included on this project. If you're like me, you'll get lost in it all while listening -- the background vocals, tracks (although, I want y'all to lay that Holla track to rest) and those lead vocals, it's all just crazy. For those that enjoyed Work Your Faith on the Straight Gate CD, you'll love the studio version that's included as a bonus track here. Why they faded it, I'll never understand. My repeat button has this annoying habit of getting stuck on Don't Pray and Worry, You Brought Me & Unto Thee. PICK HITS: I Wanna Be, Don't Pray & Worry, We Must Praise, You Brought Me, Unto Thee, Work Your Faith [originally posted 11.04/edited 08.05]