Bloodline – Time for Change (BAMM Records 2008)

Bloodline
Time for Change: Live in Columbus
BAMM Records 2008
www.BloodlineMusicGroup.com

“Originality with no compromise.” “New Sounds for Generation Now.” “Urban gospel with a twist.” “Crazy Praise.”

These are just a few of the ways Bloodline describes itself. Listening to the Richmond, Virginia group’s first full-length project, Time for Change, I must say the descriptions are spot-on.

While the lyrics are standard issue from the praise and worship catalog (an exception is the apocryphal “Ready”), the music is far from standard. Bloodline uses its youthful creative energy to conjure a percussive, condensed and complex blend that is parts symphonic rock, hip hop and neo-soul. The musicians even dabble in rock steady on “Love Always” and “Jesus Jesus.” And the high-pitched moan of Middle Eastern bagpipes, courtesy of the keyboard, invites listeners to “Clap Your Hands” on the opening cut.

Bass player and gospel singer Debra Killings makes a special appearance on Time for Change. She provides a splendid lead on “Just Hold On,” the album’s most gospel-centric performance.

The title track and current single is mellow and easy-going, but changing your heart and mind – made musically and lyrically throughout the project – remains the group’s primary focus.

Comparisons to Benita Farmer & New Journey naturally follow. The two groups provide an overall musical experience versus a track-by-track offering of memorable tunes for congregational singing.

Thus, when the CD stopped spinning, I couldn’t help but wonder: might this musical mix be the future of gospel music? Bloodline speaks to teens and young adults in particular, and since youth have always been the change-makers, only time will tell. Meanwhile, the group has opened for Yolanda Adams and are scheduled to perform on Jeff Majors’ and Bobby Jones’ television programs this year, so they are definitely on their way.

Three of Four Stars