The Praise and Worship Songs of Yolanda Adams (CD - 2003)

Personnel includes: Yolanda Adams (vocals).

Producers: Ben Tankard, Yolanda Adams, Tyrone Dickerson, Marquis Hunt.

Compilation producer: Monica Coates.

This is an Enhanced CD, which contains both regular audio tracks and multimedia computer files.

Audio Remasterer: Chaz Harper.

Despite her strong voice and nuanced delivery, Yolanda Adams hasn't always been one of the first choices for praise & worship audiences, since she's occasionally leaned toward secular music. This Verity compilation should rectify the situation nicely, including ten of her most focused religious songs from the previous ten years. Here Adams is intent primarily on addressing God, just as recordings in the praise & worship genre should be. Also, she keeps the arrangements simple, perfect for the worship context but also for her gifted voice to soar without any hindrance. The musical backing usually isn't up to her vocal performances, and the few attempts at contemporary R&B production ("Praise Your Holy Name") are clear mistakes. At its best, The Praise and Worship Songs of Yolanda Adams illustrates what a stunning performer Adams is when she's simply allowed to take over a song (fittingly, many of the best here are from live releases). ~ John Bush

Yolanda Adams is one of the shining lights of the modern gospel movement. Here, she sings mostly contemporary gospel ballads, which draw stylistically from smooth jazz and soul music. Adams's work has as much in common with the oeuvre of Oleta Adams, Anita Baker, and other pop singers as with the traditional gospel of decades past.

"The Good Shepherd" is a stunning, rubato ballad that features jazzy chords, rich string arrangements, and Adams's silky yet powerful voice. "Praise Your Holy Name" is more upbeat and funky. On this track, Adams trades vocal riffs with a male backing vocalist. Further, her bluesy vocal musings are complemented by dance-oriented electronic loops. "Let Thy Will Be Done" is another potent song of worship centered on a taut keyboard arrangement and a relaxed drum groove. Overall, this music and Adams's voice are very uplifting. Her lyrics are not overly preachy, but the devotional elements are not obfuscated either. This album will inspire believers and entice casual listeners. minimize