Reviewed by Paddy Hudspith

Freedom is very much theme here, as Kevin Jarido and his backing group Nu Virtu offer us their first CD. Gathering together originally as Virtue Ministries at Bethany Baptist Church in Lindenwold, New Jersey (where after college Kevin became worship leader), the Nu Virtu sound and direction was forged in practical ministry settings, like homeless shelters and prisons, where the group would bring the message of salvation through song. Furthermore, many of the tracks here find their roots in the members' own testimonies (including Jarido's own struggles with depression) of being set free from their respective "shackles" and overcoming by the grace of God. So, 'I'm Free' is quite rightly an exuberant, stirring collection, heralding Jarido and the others as an exciting new voice on the contemporary gospel scene. First single "Sunday Morning" begins with a laid-back groove, building to a memorable climax. "Awesome God" (no relation to the well-known Rich Mullins song) is an anthem featuring a big Tracy Harris outro. "Come In", with its reggae flavourings (steel drums and more), offers some stylistic variety and "King Of Kings" has a guest appearance from Kirk Franklin alumnus Chris Simpson. One minor observation however would be that Kevin Jarido and Nu Virtu don't yet offer a very distinctive voice musically, because although there are significant songs here and Jarido is a talented leader, I would find it hard to pick the group out of a US modern gospel crowd (except possibly Kevin himself, but that might have more to do with his clothes on the cover photo: checked tie, brown blazer, bright orange slacks... None more '70s, Kev!).

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

Interested in reviewing music? Find out more here.