marilynn dunnMarilynn Dunn
God Will
Dunn’s Ministries (2014)
www.Marilynndunnministries.com

By Bob Marovich

Singing in choirs since age eight, Marilynn Dunn of St. Louis released her third CD, God Will. It is a collection of personally-penned and personally-arranged compositions as well as covers of familiar gospel and CCM tunes.

Dunn’s forte is traditional singing and specifically church selections that are to gospel singers what coloratura arias are to opera sopranos. To wit, Dunn includes two signature favorites among gospel soloists: Dottie Rambo’s “We Shall Behold Him” and Rev. Paul Jones’ “I Won’t Complain.” “I Press” is a bluesy neo-traditional song about one’s steadfast commitment to Christ. “He’ll Do It Again” and the title track are quick-tempo songs. The congregational favorite “This Little Light of Mine” gets an interesting funky treatment.

Dunn really belts out “Your Grace,” a smoldering worship song that features her penchant for long, arcing vocal lines. She is spot on throughout the extended solo, whereas in other spots on the CD, her lower register could have used additional diaphragmatic support to keep from stalling or straining.

The musicians are uncredited on the album, but the pianist does an especially fine job supporting Dunn on “I Won’t Complain,” though less synthesizer and more acoustic piano would have given the CD more musical authenticity.

Marilynn Dunn has that trademark gospel voice—piercing and powerful. Working with a vocal trainer on her lower register could give her just the boost she needs for her next CD.

Three of Five Stars

Picks: “Your Grace,” “He’ll Do It Again”

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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.