Micah Stampley (Ransomed) - Reviews

Micah Stampley
Ransomed

Micah Stampley has dazzled many with his passionate worship and stunning vocal range. He has inspired those who have families (or desire to do so) with his love for his wife, Heidi, and his five children.

Since he is a worshipper, Stampley works best with a live recording. On Ransomed, he demonstrates his innate ability to interpret songs in a way that works best in a live setting. Kevin Bond masterfully produces this one with most of the songwriting by Micah and Heidi.

Stampley brings his A-game with beautiful "How Great You Are" and the free-flowing, "Lend Your Song to Me". The latter features worship leader Hector Soto on the reprise and things go up a notch as they challenge believers to go to a place in worship that breaks protocol. This reprise is not just an extended version of the original song; it's a time where Soto and Stampley go into spontaneous worship themselves.

Many will be familiar with "The Corinthian Song" since it was the song that Stampley sang in the contest that caught the attention of Bishop TD Jakes. This time he adds some breathtaking backing vocals, making sure that he does not overpower.

The album's diversity of selections is notable and showcases the strides that both the Stampleys have taken as songwriters. Included are timeless songs such as "Solid Rock" and a rousing rendition of Andrae Crouch's "Always Remember". The funky title track continues in the vein of Stampley's breakout single, "War Cry" without being a direct copy.

Traditional Gospel enthusiasts will be even more thrilled to dive into "Be Encouraged", a rousing selection featuring the incomparable, Nakitta Clegg-Foxx (of the Kurt Carr Singers). Together with Stampley, they take us straight to church as they trade ad-libs with potent backing vocals from Theory and Voices of Praise.

"Speak Into My Life" is another number tailor made for church choirs and worship teams alike and is powerfully geared to encourage prayer and worship.

There is so much to chew on and enjoy on Ransomed; indeed there is truly something for everyone, no matter the musical style preference. With Bond wonderfully interpreting the writing (and the heart) of the dynamic duo of Heidi and Micah Stampley, the project soars musically. Micah Stampley has simply gone to that 'other level' on Ransomed.

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Production: Kevin Bond album release date: November, 2008
Interface Entertainment

— reviewed by Dwayne Lacy —