print: GOSPEL MUSIC REVIEW: Darlene McCoy | May, 2007 on BlackGospel.com

Darlene McCoy
EMI Gospel

May, 2007 on BlackGospel.com - Review by Em Fergusson

Words often elude us when describing the type of music that allows us to enter into a sacred place with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. When it comes to Gospel music, there has rarely been a better time to select the kind of uplifting albums that are now being released. Darlene McCoy’s new album happens to be one of these inspiring CD’s that are setting new standards for Praise & Worship. EMI Gospel has released her self-titled debut project jam-packed with introspective sounds, with a Praise & Worship theme and a solid testament of how God transformed her life.

Darlene is primarily known within the church circle as a praise leader and urban inspirational artist around the Atlanta area. Her reputation is showcased through her music ministry and her long anticipated self-titled CD, which speaks to her fervent ministry and also explores finding quiet place to worship.

The album begins with a groovy, soulful track entitled, ‘I Believe.’ The song speaks of how God has supplied all our needs through His unending faithfulness. Darlene’s strong vocals soar on this track, as she praises the God who gave her everything she has and will continue to supply her needs. Continuing on the same theme, ‘Good To Me’ also praises God for being so good and how extensive His love remains.

Tracks such as the neo-soulful, ‘Be With You,’ the all-powerful, ‘Amazing,’ and the mid-tempo, soothing ‘Simply Because,’ delve into Darlene’s relationship with God. The set of songs speak so eloquently to the hearts and souls of us all. On ‘Be With You,’ the lyrics explore how being with God transforms ones’ life. While ‘Amazing’ glorifies God for providing love, peace, joy and light in a turbulent world, ‘Simply Because’ speaks of the deep desires of the heart to continue on a spiritual journey with God.

Darlene does not simply sing words of comfort, encouragement and praise: she lives the life she sings about. The songstress has faithfully served her church as one of the Praise Leaders for the New Birth Missionary Baptist Church, to which Bishop Eddie Long, is the Senior Pastor. She describes her music in the following words:

“My definition of worship is a lifestyle. I’m a cosmopolitan person who has urban sensibilities and it is who I am and this IS my worship. When I write and sing, I want it to be from me, and this album reveals how I offer my praise and my adoration to God. It is no less or no more because it’s contemporarily styled.”

The contemporary arrangements and compositions are evidenced throughout the album, fusing urban rhythms with a message of gratitude and adoration. Nevertheless, there is diversity on the album, such as the classical piece, ‘I Adore You.’ Darlene switches gears on the vintage ‘I Wanna Thank You,’ another catchy number that makes it difficult for one to stay seated.

Darlene’s passionate praise and enthusiastic profession of the wonders of our Savior is undeniably apparent and a consistent theme from track 1 through to 10. Through a series of well-orchestrated selections, Darlene successfully shares her heart and life for God with listeners. Some listeners will interpret her music as a cool and cutting-edge contemporary form of Gospel music. However, Darlene sees it as much more, a new form of Urban Praise & Worship designed to meet the listener, wherever they may be.

Darlene’s website at http://www.darlenemccoy.com contains a section where viewers have the opportunity to enjoy clips of her soulful songs from the album. The website is interactive, fun and exciting. If Darlene’s debut album is any indication of what’s in store for Ms. McCoy, the future looks bright and blessed for this anointed songstress with a heart for worship and an ear for music. Experience her testament in song and you too will enter into a new sacred place where The Savior can be found.