ALBUM DESCRIPTION

It's been quite a while since we've released a straight ahead worship album on GospelReggae.com, so Jermaine Edwards' new release, "Island Worship: A Jamaican Experience," is a welcome addition to our webstore. Hailing from the island of Jamaica, Edwards has been making quite a stir with his unique blend of worship, Caribbean worship, and smooth reggae.

When listening through this inspiring release, one thing stands out above all else: song after song, Jermaine delivers heartfelt, worshipful lyrics with complete sincerity. On songs such as "Fresh Anointing," "Holy of Holies," and "I Want To Stay In Your Presence," Jermaine carries his reverent lyrics with easy vocal gymnastics and a strong tenor presence.

Particularly interesting tracks on "Island Worship," include "Rise Up," "You Deserve The Glory," "Most High," and "I Come to Praise and Worship." "Rise Up," begins with a pulsing nyhabinghi rhythm and gives way to a syncopated bridge complete with stirring horn blasts and smooth saxophone and keyboard solos. "You Deserve The Glory," also stands out with a particularly exceptional vocal delivery over thick, uplifting instrumentation.

On "Most High," Jermaine shifts to straight reggae with a dense rhythm section providing the backdrop for reverent, personal lyrics, as he sings: "even though I've done many things / even though I've gone astray / I'm coming back to your arms Lord / 'cause I know that's where I belong!" Track 3, "I Come To Praise and Worship," is sure to be a favorite with a stunning verse delivered by none other than Jamaica's hottest new artist, DJ Nicholas!

With 14 tracks of pure praise and worship music, Jermaine Edwards' "Island Worship: A Jamaican Experience," is a sure-fire pleaser. If you're looking for a fresh new worship album, make sure to add this to your collection today!

Review by: D.M. Gahn