Greg Botts - God Has Smiled On Me

Published Monday 9th May 2011
Greg Botts - God Has Smiled On Me
Greg Botts - God Has Smiled On Me

STYLE: Gospel
RATING 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8
OUR PRODUCT CODE: 106483-17766
LABEL: HB
FORMAT: CD Single
ITEMS: 1

Reviewed by Keren Perrott

This single is another fresh spin on an old classic that has been covered by many a gospel and R&B artist over the years. This version is warm, mellow and sensationally soulful. Though released in 2010, from the first twang of the opening guitar you find yourself climbing aboard the '60s soul train. In fact, in spite of the '90s style keyboard effects, Botts' version is distinctly Isley-esque. His inclusion of a verse from "Amazing Grace" works perfectly but even without it, this track would have been equally rich. Part of the beauty of this version lies in the simplicity; Botts is accompanied by just the right volume of backing singers and there are no attempts to do anything other than let Botts' velvety vocals speak for themselves. Botts is no newcomer to the gospel scene. Hailing from Compton, California, he was one quarter of the gospel group The Starlights, themselves part descended from one of the great groups of the '50s, the Pilgrim Travelers. If you're looking for a slice of old school gospel soul with a fresh twist, look no further.

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