J. Fraze – Brighter Days

J. Fraze

On his CD Brighter Days, Johnathan Frazier (aka J. Fraze – the Minister of Praise) provides the first gospel house version of “Amazing Grace” that TBGB has ever heard. But it’s an appropriate selection, since the grace of God turning bad days into brighter days is a running theme on the album.

Born in West Virginia, J. Fraze brings a crisp urban R&B sound to his music. His lyrics are a combination of publicly-uttered prayers and effusive worship. And testimony.  But before we get to the testimony, the Minister of Praise primes the listener with “Dance in the Spirit.” It channels an old-fashioned Holy Ghost praise party through what J. Fraze calls “church crunk.” Lifting praises to a steady humming beat is J. Fraze’s sweet spot.

Picks: “Dance in the Spirit,” “I Am Not Ashamed.”