Sam Adebanjo & DTWGThe Mission/The Vision (2013)
By Bob Marovich for The Black Gospel Blog
A new double CD set, The Mission/The Vision, showcases two sides of UK gospel ensemble, Sam Adebanjo and DTWG (Desire to Worship God).
On The Mission, the group channels its African roots. The songs—some in English, others in Yoruba—possess bright beats that pulse with the mesmerizing ostinato characteristic of the music of many African countries, and African gospel in particular. The lyrics of praise, worship, and commitment to faith also follow the African gospel tradition, concluding with Sam worshiping in Yoruba.
The single “Mama,” featuring Snatcha and Shabach, is, as TBGB reported last year, a remix of “Seun Rere,” a popular African song. This African holy hip hop mash up is the highlight of disc one. Another pick, “Prayer for Africa,” is dedicated to the more than 70 victims of a mass shooting in Nairobi.
Disc two, The Vision, is more typical of Sam and DTWG’s P&W and Christian rock orientation. While mid-tempo P&W tracks such as “Praising Praising” and “Everything Within Me” are rather conventional, the disc’s ballad selections are compelling. “I Am God” is a lovely ballad about trusting in God because He will make a way. Of special note, however, are the pop-infused “You Can” and “Holding On.” “You Can” features an arresting solo by UK soul-pop phenom and Decca recording artist Kristyna Myles. “Holding On” is another fine selection, deserving of single release. Other artists who cameo on disc two are Keshia McFarland, Osmond Collins, Andrew Bello, Adrian T, and Muyiwa of Riversongz.
Although “You Can” and “Holding On” are two of the strongest songs on the entire album, The Mission is the most interesting of the two CDs because of its overall dynamic and distinctive Afro Beat rhythms.
Three of Five Stars
Picks: “Mama,” “You Can,” “Holding On.”
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.
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