Men of Standard (Surrounded) - Reviews

Men of Standard
Surrounded

The most successful male urban contemporary group of the last decade is back on the scene with a gem of a project. Men of Standard (pared down to three members with the departure of Michael Bacon) celebrate ten years of music ministry with their fifth release, Surrounded. This ten-track studio effort commemorates several firsts for the group, for not only is it their first entry as a trio, it's also their debut on the Sony Urban Music imprint.

The star power on Surrounded is simply undeniable as the group is literally "surrounded" by greatness with full-scale production duties handled by the incomparable Warryn Campbell, together with Nisan Stewart and the rising Gerald Haddon.

Isaac Carree, Lowell Pye, and Bryan Pierce showcase their musical dexterity as they tap into new-found territories, evidenced on the reggae-infused "Alright" (featuring the legendary Heavy D) and the rock-filled ballad "You" (featuring labelmate Tye Tribbett).

Kirk Franklin teams with the group on the worshipful "Latter Rain", returning a musical favor to Carree, who sung background on Franklin's Hero project. Producer Campbell even adds his flava to the mix on "Everybody", which first appeared on Woody Rock's Soul Music effort.

Look for "Cover Me" and "I Will" to make it as further star cuts on the project.

While blazin' collaborations rule the day, none take away from Men of Standard's ability to flat out sing. Surrounded merges the group's trademark harmonies and energy with a burgeoning freedom and increased passion for God. The result is an effort that continues to solidify the group as the leader in the urban contemporary genre.

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Production: Warryn Campbell, Gerald Haddon, Nisan Stewart album release date: July, 2006
Sony Urban Music

— reviewed by Gerard Bonner —