Inglewood, California born and raised sisters, Erica and Tina Campbell, known to the world as Mary Mary, returns on the scene with their 5th proper Columbia Records release, the largely Warryn Campbell produced, "Something Big". Following the successful 2008 Grammy winning album, "The Sound", Mary Mary continues with their uplifting, positive, and spiritually moving lyrics and soundscapes. "Something Big" will undoubtedly win the duo more Grammy Gold at the 2012 ceremonies, including more Dove Awards to add to their, already, overflowing award encasements in their respective homes.
This 12 selection MASTERPIECE run the gamut from party grooves, mid tempo numbers, with a tinge of Alternative Rock infusions. This album has something for everyone, no matter what race, color or creed. It's universal filled messages of hope will certainly strike a positive chord with those with an open ear, but most important, an open heart. Let's check out some of highlights of this bonafide winner.
Opening and album title track, "Something Big", is a replayed sample of the intro from The Jackson 5 classic, "Mama's Pearl". What you'll hear is something that's rarely heard in today's R&B, live instrumentation. That instrumentation consist of live drums, funkfully performed by Tina's husband, Teddy Campbell. Erica's husband, Warryn Campbell, throws down on the electric bass and keyboards, Fender Rhodes in particular. This lively and up tempo'd track is rounded out by the funky licks of Jarius Mozee on electric guitar. Tina's and Erica's dynamic and emotionally charged vocals, both lead and background, stand front and center as they sing lyrics of how GOD changed their lives for the better once they've accepted him.
"Blind", is mid tempo'd funkdified head bopper that commands your attention upon first listen. The keyboard of choice utilized here performed by Warryn, I presume, is the one used in a lot of today's R&B, the Roland Fantom X8 synthesizer. His keyboard fills compliments this rhythmically fueled programmed track, and lead vocal quite nicely. The background vocal chants and overall presense, creates an even more festive mood just right for partying. The lyrical subject matter is one of how GOD unconditionally loves a torn and tattered heart, no matter the damage. It's a heartfelt and moving tune that one can truly appreciate.
Please refer to my previously published review of the first single, "Walking", here :
"Survive", takes it back to the soulful sounds of the '70's ala Marvin Gaye and Curtis Mayfield, as once again, live instrumention rules supreme. The free and flowing electric bassline, the percussion of the shaker, congas and tambourine supplement the steady backbeat of the live drums. The harmoniously sung lead vocal and accompanying background vocals, adds depth and character to lyrics how one is able to live through life's challanges. The Hammond B3 organ and electric guitar performance gives this song that extra flavor that will you have this on the repeat mode in your iPod.
"Sitting With Me", falls more in line of the Contemporary Gospel genre than what we're use to hearing from Mary Mary, and it works quite well here. The live rhythm section delivers a hard driving, and an occasionally toned down performance, that supports the lead and background vocals quite effectively. The lyrics sung here are that of a saved soul not caring what the world thinks of their walk with GOD, which is something a lot can relate to, particularly if they've accepted Christ as their Lord and Savior.
"Homecoming Glory", is wonderful closing track that incorporates elements of folk, and tinges of country in the melody. The acoustic guitar holds center stage as it's strummed with the fervor and character of Richie Havens, whom will certainly come to mind when you hear it. The light percussions heard in the background, and the gently plucked bass guitar, all blend in perfect sync with Erica and Tina's sweet and distinctive vocal performance. Though the lyrical content is that of one's eventual passing and going home to the Lord, they will not depress you in any form or fashion. It's rather uplifting and inspiring if anything. Nonetheless, you'll enjoy this song, as well as the songs I did not cover.
But I guess you'll have to buy the CD, or download it to hear the rest, now don't you. Seriously though, please support the Sisters Campbell by purchasing the physical CD at outlets that sell music legitimately and online. That's one to way to keep quality music alive and fresh. Just as you wouldn't want someone or something to taper with, possibly, one of your income streams, that's what one does when they download illegally. But knowing the rabid fan base Mary Mary have in place, I hope and pray not one does not succumb to such a habit, whether is them or any artist(s) they enjoy. It's just wrong, plain and simple. Enjoy everyone !
Musically Yours,
Ran Man
Official Website : www.mary-mary.com
Facebook Page :http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/MaryMary
MySpace : http://www.myspace.com/therealmarymary
Facebook Page :http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/MaryMary
MySpace : http://www.myspace.com/therealmarymary
Sony Music's Official Website : www.sonymusic.com
