ALBUM DESCRIPTION

Every once in a while I do a bit of surfing on the web to see if any new reggae gospel music is available in hopes of sharing it with my radio and internet listeners. On one particular day I typed "reggae gospel" into my search engine, hit the enter key and guess what came up? I'll have to admit that when I first saw photo of Mo' Than Conquerors I was thinking more of contemporary gospel group Commissioned than one from the Caribbean. Sharply dressed in shades of black and gray, they just didn't typify what I have come to expect of groups coming from the sunny US Virgin Islands where MTC are from. Once again the old saying, "Never judge a book by its cover" comes true.

Thoughtful lyrics, great melodies, stellar production, true Caribbean flavour and a touch of R&B gloss make "Power" a very pleasing disc from Mo' Than Conquerors. For those who hunger for the group vocal sounds of Broadway Boyz International and Change, these five brethren offer plenty of gorgeous harmonies for you to enjoy as they explore everything from soca, pop-infused reggae, roots, gospel and a bit of jazz. To start things off, MTC let us know they mean business with "Triumphant Intro" in which strong interlocking vocals, a tight roots riddim, synth accents and wailing electric guitar are employed. The message is that they (and all who are in Christ) are triumphant over the enemy (Satan). So much for a subtle start!

"Praise Him (God)" is a highly infectious soca celebration of praise with lyrics which exhort us to praise God- even if we're feeling down. I think this song could get me singing praise on my gloomiest of days with its catchy melody and uplifting message. The warm Caribbean currents shift to a more rootsy style with "Changing Us"- an album highlight with its tasteful keyboard colourings, confident vocals and solid reggae beat. Lyrically, Christians are encouraged that in Christ they are being conformed to His image and that although we're not yet who we want to be, we're not who used to be neither. "The Cross" presents us with a musical masterpiece- touching and meaningful lyrics, lush vocal harmonies and memorable hooks all laid across a solid one drop reggae riddim. To say the message of "The Cross" provokes contemplation and reflection would be an understatement. In fact, after playing this song for the first time on my radio show the phone began to ring as listeners called in to give their affirmatives and inquire about the group who recorded it. Simply a beautiful and powerful song!

With songs like "Let The Life You Live/Recognize The Voice", "Friend" and "Stand" we are treated to more of MTC's unique brand of contemporary reggae filled with lyrical artistry, buoyant melodies and even some guest backing vocals (on "Stand" and "Friend"). Amidst the swirl of tropical rhythms, "No One Ever Cares For Me Like Jesus" provides peaceful instrumental refreshment, featuring some lovely bass guitar work with a jazzy touch. "We Worship You" likewise presents an excursion from the predominant reggae and soca into what is a love song to God the Father. MTC continue to wow us with spectacular yet tender harmonies that must truly be heard. "We Worship You" is the perfect song for personal times of worship with its soothing feel and heartfelt lyrics of reverence.

"Somebody Touch Me" closes out a teriffic album with a danceable soca/gospelypso expression of gratefulness for salvation that encourages the listener to remember the day when they gave their heart to the Lord and were saved. Not quite as captivating as "Praise Him (God)", it is still a strong close that puts an exclamation point on the aptly titled "Power." In listening to this entire album over several weeks it is evident to me that MTC are much about challenging the listener to live more fruitful lives in Christ and making an impact in the world around us.

Packed with spiritually nourishing, well-crafted and Christ-centered songs "Power" from Mo' Than Conquerors is an album which is sure to bless many a listener for years to come. For those who long to be changed by God and to realize the maturity that is evident by praising and worshipping Him regardless of circumstances, this album is a refreshingly good resource.

Review by Mike Roots