H E R O - Kirk Franklin

I don't think for one minute that Kirk Franklin came onto my blog and read the original HERO post from 11 September 2005 (of course not!!), but here he is, a month later with a new CD release called..., H E R O !! Coincidence?? I think not !!! But seriously, this CD is soooo good it deserves a preview, something I rarely do. Here's why it's good:

• it's deep
• it's musical
• it's melodic
• it's got slamming vocals
• it's got fewer vocal interuptions from Kirk (you know you've wanted to say Shut Up a time or two, now didn't you!!)
• it's the next level of gospel music, God willing, cause let's face it, we who buy gospel ALSO buy Kanye, Beyonce and Barry Manilow... (don't you dare bust on Barry!!)
• it's deep, which bears repeating, 'cause you don't believe me, I know. When you hear these lyrics, you'll understand just what I'm talking 'bout. (Sang, Stevie!!)

THIS IS NOT YOUR MAMA's GOSPEL MUSIC, unless your mother just happens to be Patti LaBelle! With the release of HERO, Franklin steps to the next level in his remarkable career and remains in the forefront of influencing future generations with his inspiring and timeless gospel message. In addition to the first single, “Looking For You,” a signature hype record -- featuring the classic Patrice Rushen sample “Looking For You”-- that Kirk’s fans have come to love and expect from him, the CD includes the title track, “Hero,” which chronicles the journey of mankind from destitution and depravity to redemption and restoration, and features guest vocals by one of the legendary Clark Sisters, Dorinda Clark-Cole. “Let It Go,” featuring guest vocals by tobyMac and Sonny Sandoval of P.O.D., is a haunting musical testimonial where Franklin tells of a past filled with sex, drugs, pornography, insecurity and growing up without a father. “Without You,” one of the most intimate moments on the CD, features a rare and deeply personal lead vocal from Franklin himself as he expresses his deepest sentiments of dependency on Christ. The one and only Stevie Wonder makes a featured guest appearance on the Motown-inspired song, ”Why,” a semi-tongue-in-cheek take on many of the social ills plaguing society, both inside and outside the church, that also features a scorching percussion by Sheila E. Several other tracks round out HERO including, ”Afterwhile,” featuring Yolanda Adams’ velvety vocals along with a gentle piano accompaniment delivering a message of assurance and encouragement that will undoubtedly resonate with all who hear it.

Just go get it, and write your own review !!!

Kudos Kirk, you're gonna catch holy hell, again, from the church.., but that just means you're doing what no one else had the courage to do.., 'till now. Hard being a pioneer, but quite rewarding. Thanks for paving the way. ~~BD