STYLE: R&B RATING OUR PRODUCT CODE: 13806-10822 LABEL: LL Music Ministries NCCD01 FORMAT: CD Album ITEMS: 1 RRP: £4.99
Reviewed by Phil Thomson
This is one dedicated to Daddy God. It's black and proud and very, very good. The lyrics alone do it for me - so meaty and on message; right from the opening track "I alone know the plans I have for you" ("Bright Future") you feel you are being taken care of. The beauty is in the focus - almost every song Bible-based and located in Scripture - and just to make sure, sung with sincerity and the relaxed assurance of Someone Who Knows. Not only that, Niki Carless' timing gives free expression to a bunch of solid musicians who clearly understand that "groove" (yes, that word) on any instrument is still an art form in these clinical post-20th century days. Perhaps you might detect a fragility and unassuming quality to the voice, yet it is in the construction of the songs you find the true secret of this album. They are complex, yet at the same time draw you in by degrees till you are transfixed. No better example than "How Clearly" based on Psalm 19, immediately followed by "The Lord Is Your Keeper" (Psalm 121) - relentlessly convincing, rhythmic and totally absorbing. I have rarely come across a co-producing artist with such an assurance of touch in knowing just what to do with her own creativity. Perhaps the bvs waiver here and there, but since most of them are Niki herself, it all makes perfect musical sense. If I was looking to be reached, to be blessed - in the words of quiet and contemplative track 11 - "It's Been Done". This is a remarkable album and worthy of the title: words of life indeed.
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