Chris Jasper - Amazing Love (2005)

There is very little if anything more that I could write about Chris Jasper than I have done so already over the years. I rate the man and have enjoyed everything he has done over the years with the Isley Brothers, Isley Jasper Isley, Liz Hogue, Outfront and then his solo projects both soulful and non-secular. Thirteen years after his "Priase The Eternal" set comes another solid Gospel effort called "Amazing Love".

Chris certainly does not mince his words with his faith. He has such commitment, passion and a forthrightness that shines through on every track. It is aggressively and uncompromisingly Christian and espouses all that is good about Chris’ outlook on the human condition. As a person who is to any religion what the charge of the light brigade was to army recruitment, I admit that lyrically I struggle with it, but I am impressed with Chris’ sincerity, belief, honesty and steadfastness in doing and proclaiming his belief.

Musically, it’s a different ballgame. I believe that this is Chris’ most consistent and solid set since 1994. I hope that he sets this sort of standard for any future, romance based set should he choose to do this. Chris has reached deep inside his soul; and has brought forth some soulful grooves, some funky basslines and hand-clapping testimony.

Those of you who lost interest in the Isleys after Between The Sheets should feel as if with "Amazing Love" that they have found an old friend again. The slamming, flare-flapping funk I adore from "Live It Up" finds a place in the righteous groover "Stand Up" and stands as a fantastic track to crack open this new chapter in Chris’ career. Echoes of "Caravan Of Love" filter out of lovely numbers such as "Faith" and "Glorify You", and the simmering 70s flavours come on stronger than ever on the title track (Harvest For The World as a starting point.) "True Believer" reminds me a little of "Earthquake" from 1987’s "Superbad". "I Forgive You" is another great track urging us to turn against recrimination or revenge.

You don’t have to be religious to truly and deeply know that negativity does nought but bad, and is not a worthwhile feeling at any rate, so making this a song that anyone of any leaning could follow. The only song I do not really connect to is "He Walked Alone", and although inspirational to many, musically does little for me. That aside, I can leave the CD on and let it play. As I say, I just love this man’s arrangements and melodies and his style is so unique. I could listen to Chris all day. Please take a listen yourself, as whether you are a worshiiper or not, as in my case, I do not think that this CD should be dismissed. Excellent Gospel music from a musical giant.- Barry Towler