Norman Hutchins (Where I Long To Be) - Reviews

Norman Hutchins
Where I Long To Be

Since his eponymously-titled debut in 1992, Norman Hutchins has been accurately pegged as a (young) master of traditional, hard-edged Gospel with a flair for infectious melody. Where I Long To Be is his fifth outing on JDI Records, and true to form, demonstrates that he remains in the vanguard of the genre.

With production partners Jason White and James Roberson guiding the project, Hutchins digs into a choice set of 9 songs, accompanied by The “A” Team on background vocals, and the usual complement of excellent musicians: Jason White, Michael Bereal, Jimmy Neuble, Eric Walls, Donald Hayes and others.

Hutchins declares that a ‘God is up to something’ on “Get Ready For Your Miracle”. It’s an all-abandoned, bumpy, Sunday morning ride that flows thematically into “A Move Of God Is On the Way”, which features some great call and response between Hutchins and The “A” Team, laid over a brassy musical foundation.

Shervonne Wells of The Kurt Carr Singers guests with Hutchins on “Everything Will Be Alright”, a quick-tempo’d encourager that is destined for multiple radio spins.

Hutchins is equally adept at the praise ballad, as he shows again on the title cut, a gently-flowing vertical expression of intimacy with the Father. The “A” Team is vocally on point again, as Hutchins sings “I give you permission to live in my heart”. Piano and strings fill the song out nicely. The sprightly “I Really Love You” raises the temperature slightly, finding a niche halfway between a traditional and contemporary feel.

Don’t miss the boisterously funky “I Won’t Forget” and “I’m Standing On the Rock” with its reflection of the unfailing promises of God.

The award-winning Norman Hutchins remains a fixture on the Gospel scene, and this latest album seems sure to further his winning ways.

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Producers: Various album release date: May, 2006
JDI Records

— reviewed by Stan North —