Collage IIIUnder Construction
Collage Worldwide Entertainment
By Bob Marovich for The Black Gospel Blog
Blend the contemporary pizzazz of Commissioned with the muscle of ‘70s soul harmony singing, and toss in some rap at intervals, and you have Collage III’s Under Construction.
The trio’s meaty voices deliver eleven selections on hope, encouragement, patience, and praise, familiar themes in the gospel lexicon.
“Better Man” (not the Eddie Vedder/Pearl Jam song) is the lyrical and melodic high point of the album. To a mid-tempo ballad, the team reminds us that we are made in the image of God, which automatically gives us the pedigree to be better husbands, fathers, and role models. Other ballads on the album are nearly as striking, notably the praise piece “You,” and the inspirational “Keep Ya Head Up.” Here, Collage III is joined by Pastor Samuel Blakes and, together, they encourage listeners to keep hope alive, because change is coming.
Based on the church catchphrase, “I’m too blessed to be stressed,” the funky “2 Blessed” is an entreaty to maintain faith in Jesus, regardless of the problems at hand. It comes in two varieties: one with a rap interlude by Y. Luck, and one without.
Collage III is Larry Jones, Dominic Davis, and Edward J. West Sr., all from New Orleans or the Greater New Orleans area. Although each has roots in church music ministry, West’s path eventually led him to secular music, and some of its less desirable trappings, before he resurfaced. The trio originally discussed establishing an R&B vocal group—hence the street-smart sound—but redirected their attention to gospel.
Under Construction will appeal in particular to fans of Men of Standard, Commissioned, and practitioners of the contemporary quartet sound.
Three of Five Stars
Pick: “Better Man.”
Written by : Bob Marovich
Bob Marovich is a gospel music historian, author, and radio host. Founder of Journal of Gospel Music blog (formally The Black Gospel Blog) and producer of the Gospel Memories Radio Show.
Visit Today : 672
This Month : 42684