Mandisa - Freedom

Producer:  Brown Bannister & Christopher Stevens
Record Label:  Sparrow Records/EMI Christian Music Group
Website:  http://www.mandisa.sparrowrecords.com

One can’t mention the success of Mandisa without mentioning American Idol.  This big-voiced diva made a splash by responding to Cowell’s harsh criticisms about her weight in the audition rounds - earning her legions of fans because of her humble remarks to the snarky judge.  Mandisa made it all the way to the Top 10 before being ousted and finishing the show in 9th place that season.  Mandisa was quickly snatched up by Sparrow Records and released her debut Christian album in 2007 - True Beauty.  Mandisa is now back with her sophomore album and 75 lbs lighter.  The singer has spoken heavily on her struggles with food addiction - and Freedom is an open reflection of her time with that addiction and the struggle to lose weight.  The album, musically, picks up where True Beauty left off - it is chock full of pop numbers with some r&b and Black Gospel elements thrown in - similar to what one would hear from the likes of Natalie Grant or mid-90’s era Crystal Lewis or Out of Eden.  Cuts like the radio-friendly “My Deliverer,” “Leave It In the Valley” or funky “Definition of Me” showcase Mandisa’s truly great vocals and fantastic interpretations.  Lyrically, like mentioned before, Freedom features songs that talk about - well - freedom.  Cuts like the catchy “Freedom Song” and “Leave It In the Valley” speak of earthly freedom - while the final freedom of Heaven is nicely shown in “You Wouldn’t Cry (Andrew’s Song)”.  “Broken Hallelujah” is probably the album highlight with it’s beautiful melody and striking lyrical topic.  Overall, Freedom does a great job of showcasing Mandisa’s thrilling vocal moves and stirring interpretation.  There are times when the album can feel a bit dated (see “Dance, Dance, Dance” particularly) - but overall, it’s a nice record that Mandisa fans (as well as fans of Natalie Grant) will more than likely love.

Track listing:
1.  My Deliverer
2.  How Much
3.  He Is With You
4.  The Definition of Me
5.  Not Guilty
6.  Leave It In the Valley
7.  Victorious
8.  Broken Hallelujah
9.  Freedom Song
10.  Dance, Dance, Dance
11.  You Wouldn’t Cry (Andrew’s Song)

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