Reviewed by Trevor Fitzgerald

This is the second album from Virginia-born Masterpiece Christian Records artist Hope Askew. Having been nominated for the 2006 New Gospel artist for Virginia GAG Hope certainly has the talent to be up there with the biggest names in gospel. 'Life, Love And Music' comes in at just under an hour in length and introduces 12 new tracks and a new remixed version of "Try Jesus" from her previous album. Gospel, urban, soul and R&B are encompassed here, but through it all are the binding threads of Hope's big, expressive voice and honest, God-focused lyrics that bring continuity to the whole album. The album has lots of little clever production detail that make for a compelling listen. For example, halfway through the song "Lift Him Up" there is the horn riff from Stevie Wonder's "Sir Duke" that links the track into an old gospel section. "Love Lifted Me" sees Hope duet with Light Records' Earl Bynum and their two voices complement each other very well on what is one of the standout tracks. This is an album that delivers, especially Hope's vocals that are powerfully soulful throughout. Definitely one to listen to and watch out for in the future.

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