ALBUM DESCRIPTION

In the liner notes to "No Boundaries", the first major label release from reggae gospel pioneer Lester Lewis, the man himself writes: "It is safe to say this album is now well-soaked. The cake is baked and ready to eat. Enjoy this spiritual food!!!" Indeed, the line of hungry listeners goes out the door and around the corner as many a Christian reggae connoisseur have been waiting patiently to be dished up some new Lester Lewis material. Actually, any Lester Lewis material.

Having achieved success with his first reggae gospel single ("Everytime I Read My Bible") in 1988, one would think that by now there would be a wealth of Lewis recordings to choose from. Not so. In fact, I am very thankful for my friend and fellow Christian reggae deejay, Mike Francis in the UK for sending me cassette copies of two very hard to find albums- "Bible" and "Positive" (as well as the "No Boundaries" CD). As great as they (the cassettes) are to listen, they're no fun to cue up for airplay. To give you an idea how rare Lester Lewis recordings are, I had a number people from different geographic locations willing to purchase the cassette copies off of me!

"No Boundaries" represents one of the few Lester Lewis recordings available on CD- to my knowledge. As far back as late 2001, there was news of a coming album called "Reorder" on Danny Browne's Main Street Music label, but that album never did come to fruition. Having said that- let's focus on what we do have.

For those looking for both old and new Lewis material- your wish has been granted! "No Boundaries" contains several previously released tracks from out-of-print albums including "Super Star," "Sooner," and "The Lamb." Indeed, this album consists of collaborations between a several different musicians and studios, yet the result is rather cohesive. The newer selections, recorded in London along with strong support UK Christian reggae stalwart Tony Rich include the majestic hymn-like "In Your Presence," the traditional gospel-influenced "Fool For Jesus," the contemporary and melodic roots reggae of "One More Chance" and more.

Lyrically, Lewis gathers much inspiration from the bible and his relationship with his heavenly Father through his Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. The depth of this relationship seems evident in that the messages in the songs come across as personal rather than preachy, yet with confidence and conviction, avoiding cliches. In "Super Star" Lewis sings, "Some people say that Jesus is a ship...I wonder who those people think they are...When Jesus said to Lazarus- "Lazarus come forth!!"...Jesus is the resurrection and the life...We gotta tell the world...He's more than just a super star to me..." Employing his full and rich voice, Lewis sings with sureness and authority. The result is inspiring.

Lewis effectively examines the plight of the world versus Christian principles and solutions in songs like the impressive roots "Gonna Have To Live Together," the melancholy and touching "Peace In The Ghetto," "One More Chance," the heart-rending ballad "Sooner" (definitely a highlight) and the deeply worshipful "The Lamb," featuring Sandra Bryan and Lester's wife Singing Rose- his partner in life and ministry. "Jah Love," also featuring Singing Rose, is a beautiful Motown-flavoured reggae track which nicely conveys the love message of 1 Corinthians 13. "Word" likewise incorporates a roots rhythm, pleasant melody, Impressions-influenced backing vocals and Psalms 119 admonishment, "How can a young man cleanse his ways? Only by taking heed to your words, O Lord." One slight complaint about "Word" is that the recording levels are a bit off, but it's a very good listening experience nonetheless.

One last word about the final track "Everlasting Love", featuring label mate Charmain. It is an impeccably recorded, achingly tender love song to the Bridegroom Jesus with the angelic lyrics such as "Your love is so divine/Your love suits me fine/Your love was right there on time...With an everlasting love that draws me." Charmain's sweet vocals provide the ideal compliment to Lewis' husky delivery, adorned with pristine guitar licks and crisp nyabinghi-flavoured drums. No word could adequately describe this beautiful piece.

"No Boundaries" is full of quality tracks containing spiritual gems, inspired instrumentation, soulful backing vocals and numerous musical styles. There is great depth and relevancy to the Spirit-filled musical ministry of Lester Lewis who connects with and engages the listener with his confident yet tender touch. I would say it has been well worth the wait!

Review by: Mike Roots