|  | |
Previous | Next Dazzling deconstruction of American pop
Clay Gergen
The Nu Nation Project
Kirk Franklin. Gospo Centric Records, 1998.
Lean on Me. Univseral Music, 1998.
When the hip hop and rap movement began in the early 1980s, it was born out of the depression and desperation of largely black, inner-city America. Since then, however, voices have arisen to challenge that desperation, and Kirk Franklin is one of those voices.
Franklin himself has risen above the desperation and defeatism of inner city life to become one of Christian music’s stars. Rolling Stone magazine held nothing back in a recent review of The Nu Nation Project, calling it a dazzling deconstruction of American pop music.
Musically, there’s a passion within the songs that is undeniable. The voices and spirit of those who have been forgiven are unbridled in their praise and worship of God. With the flowing voices of “The Family,” his regular backup ensemble, Franklin winds from strong, praise-filled ballads to frenetic, jump around dance type music. Franklin melds pop, rock, hip hop and soaring gospel stylings into a cohesive and compelling mix. It is well worth a listen.
The video for the first single release of the album, “Lean on Me,” also is a treat to watch. Initially, I thought this was going to be another rehash of the classic song everyone and his dog have done. It proved to be pleasantly different and refreshing, and included a surprise. In addition to including mainline stars such as R. Kelly, Mary J. Blige and Crystal Lewis, Franklin convinced Bono (lead singer of U2) to sing.
Although the album is well-crafted and musically unique, it is not for everyone. If you are looking for something interesting to add to your CD collection, Franklin is a great choice. If your tastes, however, run closer to Mantovani, this album is not for you.
Clay Bergen lives in Big River, SK.
Previous | Next
Last modified July 20, 1999.
© 2000 Mennonite Brethren Herald.
Published by the Canadian Conference of MB Churches.
Masthead and usage information.
|
