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 Hold On Signed to Tehillah Music Group, Washington's Hold On debut comes with plenty of high profile support, including production from Alex Asaph Ward and Roger Ryan, and a band that counts Elijah D. Holt and Calvin Rodgers as members, and mass vocals from the Mt Zion Baptist Church Choir.  Washington's vocal presence dominates the project —as it most certainly should on a live solo album. Her clear, soprano tone dominates, soaring over traditional arrangements and solidifying contemporary ones.There's an abundance to sink your teeth into, from the gratitude cut "Thank You" (where Washington lets loose vocally by the time song vamps out), to her spirited covers of Donald Lawrence's "When The Saints Go To Worship" and Walter Hawkins' "When The Battle is Over". Ward also contributes a couple of compositions, writing the rousing church-throttle "Hold On" and the opening "Use The Word", both which showcase Washington's ability to deliver gut-bucket Gospel over brassy accompaniment.  Conversely, "Press On", from Roger Ryan's pen, is a fine example of balladry, and the Gospel Dream winner handles it well, as she does on "Expression", a nice, soulful praise jam.If you're after an album highlight, then "High Cost of Praise", written by V. Michael McKay, would be it. After a spoken intro from Bishop Joseph W Walker III, Washington joins with Bishop Paul S. Morton to weave together a gorgeously soulful duet featuring close harmonies and powerful lyrics about the cost (suffering) that Jesus paid at Calvary. On the basis of Hold On, Benita Washington looks to grace the scene for some time to come.
Email This To A Friend Tehillah Music Group / Light Records — reviewed by Stan North —
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