IMAGE - Reviews - GOSPELflava.com

IMAGE

It seems only right that family groups are the mainstay of the Gospel genre; the unity, the togetherness, the strength of the family unit, this is a testament to God's purpose not only for a physical family, but for His people as a whole.

With that being said, IMAGE, the new quartet on the scene, exemplifies all of these characteristics, while displaying a musical force to be reckoned with. Combining the foundation of the traditional quartet and the freshness of today's sound, the group is relevant to the musical scene, and a joy to listen to.

Mark Mathis, Nathan Mathis, Tim Mathis & David Mathis — four brothers out of Arkansas —work with producers Montrell Darrett, Mark Willett and Paul Wright III, delivering an eponymously-titled, 11-song project on NuSpring Records. From soul-driven cuts to traditionally-rendered selections, and a sizeable number of pieces that fall in between, there's plenty to tilt the ear to on the album.

Online Jukebox

Check out the online jukebox for IMAGE.

Link to Jukebox

"I Feel Good", the lead single, is rooted in the church sound. Close-knit harmonies and a syncopated rhythm underneath the vocal bed propel the cut into hand-tapping territory.

On "Sunny Day", the feel-good vibes continue as the foursome sing the verse ("When the tempest is raging and the billows are tossing high / Jesus is my beacon He'll lead me to daylight") before delving into the infectious chorus "(Aren't you glad God gave you) one more sunny day". The songwriting is superb; the delivery is excellent.

On the soulful tip, "Redeemed" (co-written by the group with Darrett), IMAGE finds their vocal pocket amidst a percolating, contemporary track from Darrett. The "Starting All Over Again" also gets the Darrett treatment (as do three other songs on the album), and is a slow but persistently-grooved cut that merits attention. Mark Willett writes and produces "Live and Love", an inspirational ode that is a cry for the world to embrace forgiveness. Check out the opening lyrics:

"Sticks and stones may break my bones
But words have often killed me"

Other notable songs on this memorable debut include the group's wonderful cover of The Winans' hit "Restoration", and the quick-tempo'd, clap-track driven "Fight On".

With a great sound, refreshing lyricism and passionate delivery, IMAGE delivers a must-listen project. Don't sleep!

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Production: Paul Wright III, Montrel Darrett, Various album release date: April 1, 2008
NuSprings Records

— reviewed by Stan North —