Customer Reviews

Freedom

5 star:		(32)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Prime Cuts: Not Guilty, He is With You, Broken Hallelujah

Despite shedding more than 70ib of weight, Mandisa has not rescinded as far as her convictions go. While many a lesser artist would be content in expressing his or her faith through generic love songs where God is sidelined as the generic "he," "Freedom" brims with bold affirmations of God, His Grace and all-out praises. If there's a theme that runs right through this American idol alum's new CD, it's the celebration of our emancipation expressed via the work of Christ. Each song deftly expounds on such a glorious theme from various vantage points. What perhaps is paragon of this disc is that every song here is steeped with not only Christ-centered lyrics, but they are of strong melodic constructions; song that you would remember long after the music stops. Such credit needs to go to producers Brown Bannister and Chris Stevens who have enlisted some of the best songwriters from the current contemporary Christian music scene including Matthew West, Tony Wood, Sam Mizell and Aaron Rice.

Without any bells and whistles, "Not Guilty" is a heartfelt ballad where Mandisa sings of our atonement in Christ without reservation. Starting off on a whimper before exploding into a melissmatic crescendo, "Not Guilty" truly shows what a gift Mandisa is to music. Just as visceral is "Broken Hallelujah," another gorgeous ballad which is a prayer of praise to God despite our failings. Listen especially to how Mandisa nuances each note with earnestness creating truly a sonic sermon that goes right to the heart. While current single "He is With You" is an apt prophecy to our times. Offering hope to victims of domestic desertion and those suffering the current economic down turn, "He is With You" offers Christ's abiding presence that soothes the soul like a healing balm.

The uptempoes in no way pale in comparisons to their slower counterparts. Lead single "My Deliverer" is buoyant funk piece with a rattling bass line over an exuberant melody, this has hit stamp all over it. Matthew West's co-penned "How Much" is straight ahead pop effort that should also light up radio lines. While many of us are easily seduced by values of our culture, "The Definition of Me" puts an end to such idolatry when Mandisa affirms invariably that her identity is found in the truth of God. This is a Godly anthem that ought to re-sound in the hearts of every believer. Gospel fans get their fix with the gritty "Leave it in the Valley" -- a soaring plea to entrust our futures in God. "Dance, Dance, Dance," on the other hand, has a 70s rock and roll vibe to it without sounding archaic.

As far as contemporary Christian music releases go, "Freedom" is in a class of its own. Most rewarding though is that though each song explores the theme of Godly freedom in its various facets, they are distinctive enough without giving the listener any soporific moments. Further, Mandisa is not only in tip top position vocally, she sings each note as if they are ministry moments; moments to spread the grace of God in its most splendid arrays.

You can often tell where an individual is in their relationship with the Lord, by what they say and the way they say it. You may not like her musical style, but listening to the words, you begin to realize that she is in a LOVE relationship with the Lord. The Holy Spirit that resides in her begins to interact with the Holy Spirit residing in you. Before you know it, you're both praising the Lord, you just can't help it!

I don't know if she realizes, or will ever realize, how big of an impact her ministry is having on the Saints worldwide. If I could, I would buy this album and the previous one "True Beauty" for everyone I know.

I pray, and I hope everyone else is praying, that the Lord will guide, protect, and keep her from succumbing to the temptations of the evil one. In this selfish, pleasure driven world, it's a rare treat to be able to spend your time and resources on something that glorifies the Creator of ALL THINGS! And feel good about it!

I'm already looking forward to the next one. There is a next one, right? When is it scheduled for release? In the words of one of my favorite preachers, Dr. Frederick G. Sampson - "Come On Now!"

I have both of her albums "True Beauty" and "Freedom" I like Freedom alot better. Very powerful and very moving. Something that I needed lately! INSPERATIONAL!

Wow, what can I say? I play this CD about 10 times a day at work. It's on constant repeat. Being a relatively new, young (28) Christian and living in a state where God is offensive to many, I need the most encouragement I can get. I love the Lord with all my heart and when work troubles seem to run too deep, when relationship challenges discourage me, and when I am shunned because of my love for God,...this CD reminds me of why I became a Christian. For the love of Christ. Mandisa has amazing vocals in the CD, but most importantly...has an awesome way to bring the love of Christ alive through music. I haven't heard her first CD, but am addicted to this one. She is an inspiration to many and this CD deserves all the stars it can get. Blessings!

Prime Cuts: Not Guilty, He is With You, Broken Hallelujah

Despite shedding more than 70ib of weight, Mandisa has not rescinded as far as her convictions go. While many a lesser artist would be content in expressing his or her faith through generic love songs where God is sidelined as the generic "he," "Freedom" brims with bold affirmations of God, His Grace and all-out praises. If there's a theme that runs right through this American idol alum's new CD, it's the celebration of our emancipation expressed via the work of Christ. Each song deftly expounds on such a glorious theme from various vantage points. What perhaps is paragon of this disc is that every song here is steeped with not only Christ-centered lyrics, but they are of strong melodic constructions; song that you would remember long after the music stops. Such credit needs to go to producers Brown Bannister and Chris Stevens who have enlisted some of the best songwriters from the current contemporary Christian music scene including Matthew West, Tony Wood, Sam Mizell and Aaron Rice.

Without any bells and whistles, "Not Guilty" is a heartfelt ballad where Mandisa sings of our atonement in Christ without reservation. Starting off on a whimper before exploding into a melissmatic crescendo, "Not Guilty" truly shows what a gift Mandisa is to music. Just as visceral is "Broken Hallelujah," another gorgeous ballad which is a prayer of praise to God despite our failings. Listen especially to how Mandisa nuances each note with earnestness creating truly a sonic sermon that goes right to the heart. While current single "He is With You" is an apt prophecy to our times. Offering hope to victims of domestic desertion and those suffering the current economic down turn, "He is With You" offers Christ's abiding presence that soothes the soul like a healing balm.

The uptempoes in no way pale in comparisons to their slower counterparts. Lead single "My Deliverer" is buoyant funk piece with a rattling bass line over an exuberant melody, this has hit stamp all over it. Matthew West's co-penned "How Much" is straight ahead pop effort that should also light up radio lines. While many of us are easily seduced by values of our culture, "The Definition of Me" puts an end to such idolatry when Mandisa affirms invariably that her identity is found in the truth of God. This is a Godly anthem that ought to re-sound in the hearts of every believer. Gospel fans get their fix with the gritty "Leave it in the Valley" -- a soaring plea to entrust our futures in God. "Dance, Dance, Dance," on the other hand, has a 70s rock and roll vibe to it without sounding archaic.

As far as contemporary Christian music releases go, "Freedom" is in a class of its own. Most rewarding though is that though each song explores the theme of Godly freedom in its various facets, they are distinctive enough without giving the listener any soporific moments. Further, Mandisa is not only in tip top position vocally, she sings each note as if they are ministry moments; moments to spread the grace of God in its most splendid arrays.

This is one of the most beautiful, moving cds that I own. I play it in the car all the time and it moves me to tears. I purchsed several copies for family and I will be buying more for Christmas presents.It is called Mandisa Freedom. I will be buying more of her cds after Christmas.

I purchased 2 of her albums, and enjoyed all the music. Uplifting and also very down to earth. You can't help but love her style, and her voice. I would recommend her music to anyone. A very talented lady.

I truly enjoyed and was blessed by this album. I love how Mandisa emphasises what true beauty is. Her voice is amazing; every song is amazing. You will not skip one song on the album. Also, love the collab with Blanca from Group 1 Crew. Two amazing women of God on one song: Out of site!!!

This CD has a variety of song styles and the words ring true of the Freedom that Mandisa sings of from her heart. The best for me right now is the song "He is with YOU" so helpful in the struggles of day-to-day living.

this was an awesome cd. i saw her at women of faith last year and she is just an excellent performer!