Stronger by Myron Butler & Levi

Reviewed by Paul Poulton

This isn't your average meat 'n' potatoes gospel fare. Myron has a fine ensemble of vocalists helping him in his quest to push the limits of gospel music. They use space with attack to execute the engaging songs; an undercurrent of modern keyboard/guitar grooves help to give the tracks their contemporary feel. The songs are mostly new yet have a familiarity about them, which is usually a sign of a great writer. "Stronger" is a strong song and along with "I Live" and the subtle "More Than You'll Ever Know" could move from its pigeonhole into the larger music listening community. This is Myron's follow up CD to his critically acclaimed debut, 'Set Me Free'. Kirk Franklin, Myron's one time band leader, may have trail blazed for Mr Butler, yet this music is innovative in a different direction to Kirk's music - Myron Bulter is certainly no clone. Towards the end of this smart set of songs, a traditional slow gospel feel sets the tone. In some ways I wish it hadn't, it can be found elsewhere. What Myron does best maybe Myron ought to stick to.