Rating:
Genre:
Gospel
Release Date: 10/05/2004
Smokie Norful consolidated his status as one of
gospel music's brightest hopes with his sophomore set,
Nothing Without You, a surprisingly broad-based collection of
contemporary and
traditional gospel. Listeners who are suspicious of
Norful trying a little of everything shouldn't be afraid. The musician, arranger, songwriter. and community activist proves immensely skilled at everything he attempts here, starting with the opener, a horn-driven blast of affirmation named
"Power." Percy Bady's
"Worthy" is another success, a rousing
gospel choir number with
Norful leading the faithful while exhibiting as much fire and charisma as
Donny Hathaway. Even when he moves into slower material, as on the
traditional "I Know the Lord Will Make a Way" and the title track (featuring
George Duke),
Norful displays the same sure touch with his stirring, soulful tenor. There's only one nod to
R&B, titled
"Can't Nobody," but it's a success as well.
~John Bush, All Music Guide
;)
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