CD
| 1 | |
| 2 | |
| 3 | |
| 4 | |
| 5 | |
| 6 | |
| 7 | |
| 8 | |
| 9 | |
| 10 | |
| 11 | |
| 12 | |
| 13 | |
| 14 | |
Fast-forward past the spooky futuristic intro with Armageddon overtones and jump straight into Natalie Wilson's Good Life. Wilson is unabashed in her message -- the "good life" can be found through Christ alone -- but her preaching is delivered amid delicious hip-hop grooves, sultry R&B, and energizing gospel harmonies with even a dash of reggae thrown in. It's a delightful concoction that brings some fun to its overt message, skillfully delivered by the talented Wilson and her SOP cohorts. The don't-miss track is "When You Need a Friend," an awesome ballad that's a little bit bluesy, a little bit jazzy, and wholly moving as sung by the exquisite Tina Marshall. The title cut, featuring the rapping of Rodney Jerkins (who co-wrote the song with Wilson), is mesmerizing in its looping harmonies, convincingly delivering a message of finding the good life in Christ. The infectious "Free" is joyous in its praise, punctuated by a jamming backing choir -- this is a party we all want to join. Wilson has fast garnered a reputation as one of gospel's most creative visionaries; with Good Life, she raises the bar to new heights. Lisa Zhito, Barnes & Noble