Customer Reviews

Give It to God

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In times where many young singers are unaware of damage they're inflicting upon the music business, it's nice to have an old veteran like Della Reese come along and show them what music should be about.

Her first studio album in twenty-one years may at first glance appear as a Gospel album, which in truth, it is, but it's also an eclectic collection of soulful and jazzy songs that represents Della in all of her glory. Throughout her entire music career, she's been a master at fusing genres together into one whole, and she does an admirable job at keeping it real, but at the same time, not degrading herself (or the message), by enlisting the latest hip music producer, or anything like that. The opener "How Great Thou Art/ My Tribute" is great place to start, as it sets the mood and tone for the rest of the album. It's a magical piece, and it is guaranteed to sweep you away with its brilliant orchestration, and divine message.

Della still knows how to work it, as she proves on several up-tempo songs like "Work It Out", " What a Friend We Have in Jesus" and "Worry 'Bout Nothing". But the core, and the most breathtaking aspect of the album, lies within its beautiful ballads. "I've Been Touched by an Angel" is a magnificent piece, and the orchestration is truly something to behold. "A Window Open" is inspiring, and her cover of the classic "Have I Told You Late?" is completely unique.

Do not let the fact that the album is largely Gospel music put you off (I myself, happen not to be a particularly religious person) but instead just enjoy Della's remarkably well-preserved voice. She was almost 75 at the time of the recording, but you will find no shaky grandma voice on any of these songs. As I said, the album may be "Gospel", but it can also be enjoyed on so many other levels, as Della writes on the back of the booklet:

"What I've always wanted to do most was present Gospel music the way I felt it to be, an all-encompassing musical force, not just "Church music" to be relegated to the church. I see Gospel music and the profoundness of both its lyrical and emotional content as being able to and worthy of standing on its own."

FANTASTIC I love it love it love it,Della lifts the heart & stirs the soul.I start my day with this if at all possible,PRAISE GOD! It is best to give your day to the Lord,this is the way to do it.I reccommended it highly.JoJo

Best gospel album! Della's gospel roots come from touring with Mahalia Jackson and her upbringing. This album rocks musically and uplifts spiritually. She is a master. I play this album almost daily.