STYLE: Gospel RATING OUR PRODUCT CODE: 150722-22066 LABEL: My Block 099923934028 FORMAT: CD Album ITEMS: 1 RELEASE DATE: 2014-08-01 RRP: £13.19
Reviewed by Stephen Luff
This set has already made number one in the US gospel charts and clearly, now that Erica has broken free from Mary Mary, more success awaits the diva. With top rate production from husband Warryn Campbell, the sound here steers the Campbell ship away from the shores of R&B, to a more contemporary gospel location. The album starts with a laid back simple backing, allowing Erica's vocals to have free reign, something maybe we have not seen in the same way previously. The pace builds steadily with an infectious groove with "You Are" and the lively "A Little More Jesus". The title track single features Christendom's top selling rapper Lecrae and is an honest cry for help. The only track I grew to dislike was "I'm A Fan", one of two tracks not receiving the Campbell writing touch (the other being the much more likeable "Changes"), simply because of its plodding beat, which got more irritating with each listen, although the lyrics are thought provoking! This is a top debut solo album with the potential for more radio friendly songs such as "P.O.G" (Power Of God).
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Product Description
Taking a break from her usual gig, the album Help marks Erica Campbell's solo debut away from the group Mary Mary, but don't expect a drastic change. Sister and fellow Mary Mary member Tina is present, although only on background vocals, as is Erica's husband and frequent Mary Mary contributor Warryn Campbell II.
As for as the differences, Help is a return to more traditional themes like prayer, creation, and the struggles of everyday life, while traditional gospel plays more of a role than the usual R&B, thus allowing Erica to show off her vocal talents. Rapper Lecrae makes a guest appearance on the album's title cut.