Producer/writer/actor Rob Hardy (Motives, the Trios series) switched gears for his latest project, The Gospel, a modern day retelling of the Prodigal Son, one of the most famous parables in the Bible. Hardy joined forces with music ace Fred Hammond, who helped jumpstart the project after it had originally stalled. The accompanying soundtrack is a glorious collection of praise and worship songs that rumbles from the opening track and doesn't let up until the last note falls silent.
The Gospel Soundtrack is an uplifting 13 track disc, featuring some of Christian music's most talented singers and songwriters. Kirk Franklin and Papa San let the Holy Spirit loose with the fiery "He Reigns," a medley that also includes parts of Rich Mullins' "Awesome God." A backing choir helps the duo out as they stretch their arms heavenward. Franklin appears four tracks later praising God for all he has done, on the horn-peppered "Still Alive." The singer, with the accompaniment of the choir, declares that the everlasting God is still alive and well in the hearts of men.
Yolanda Adams, who also acts in the movie, exercises her golden vocal chords for the beat-driven "Victory." "I'm not worried about material things I don't have/ I just rest cause I'm sure in my savior's care," Adams sings confidently. The spirited "Glorious," featuring vocalist Martha Munizzi, and the organ-stained "You Are Good," with Greg Kirkland and 'The Gospel' choir, are roof-raising numbers that get the juices flowing. The latter track is filled with slap-happy bass lines and electrifying keyboard shots. Deitrick Haddon puts a heavenly shine on Sam Cooke's classic "Change Is Gonna Come." Haddon injects the track with a ton of soul.
Donnie McClurkin (who acts in the film as well) and Roberta Flack both chip in heartfelt numbers. McClurkin and Kirk Franklin split the vocals on the hip-hop tinted "Ooh Child," while Flack, with Donny Hathaway, takes the soft approach with the affectionate "The Closer I Get To You." Fred Hammond appears on the slow-moving "All Things Are Working" and the spirit-jolting "Put Your Hands Together." The latter also features the angelic voice of Natalie Wilson. The disc is rounded out with songs by Joann Rosario ("When I Pray"), Hezekiah Walker ("I Need You To Survive") and Tamyra Gray ("Now Behold The Lamb").
An amazing combination of the best voices in Christian music and 13 heart-piercing tracks makes The Gospel Soundtrack a winning collection. If the movie is half as good, then the producers should have a big hit on their hands.
By Todd Sterling
