GI – The Next Dimension

GI
The Next Dimension
BGA Records (2011)
http://www.giforever.com/

The youthful harmonies of GI (God’s Image) call to mind the early work of Boyz II Men and a techno-fueled version of New Edition.

This Virginia-based group has been singing together for more than a decade, and although it was once a quartet (in number, not in style), it is now a trio, comprised of Branden Anderson, Lamonte Harris and Curtis Langley.

GI’s new CD, The Next Dimension, contains a baker’s dozen of songs with spit-polished harmonies and passionate vocals atop friendly pop melodies and hard-hitting electronic arrangements. The music and lyrics are aimed primarily, but not exclusively, at a young church-going demographic. For example, “He Go So Hard,” featuring The Official Artist, declares God to be harder (e.g, more powerful) than any street tough. Later, on “Lead Us to Truth,” the group shouts “Jesus is a keeper!”

The selections on The Next Dimension are predominantly praise and worship-oriented, though “Come Back to Me” and “Only You” focus on the importance of discipleship. “I Choose You” is a squeeky-clean love song, the latest in a line of love songs showing up on gospel and inspirational projects these days.

The two standout tracks are “All I Need,” with its litany of similes for how badly one needs the Lord; and “Forever we will Worship,” the current single that gives a conventional praise and worship melody a dose of the group’s signature electronic treatment. “For Tha’ King,” “You Should Already Know” and “Daydreamin’” are excellent examples of the group’s radio-friendly pop sensibility.

GI fans will appreciate this new project and those unfamiliar with the group will enjoy the easily accessible melodies and lyrics.

Four of Five Stars

Picks: “All I Need,” “Forever We Will Worship.”