One thing that had never occurred to me was to wonder if there
was such a thing as Christian Jamaican music. Donahue Stewart, recent
island transplant to Fort Wayne, affirms that there most definitely
is such a creature! Partially recorded in his home country and
completed at Monastic Chambers, Stewart has released his promising
debut album Talking To The Man.
Celebrate is an appropriately warm introduction to the album,
inviting the listener to celebrate Jesus Christ. Convincing synth
horns form a mariachi tone that mixes well with the upbeat island
rhythm. Syncopated guitar and a bouncy bass characterize
Jerusalem, with mellow organ underscoring the verse. More
traditional in feel is Here I Am Lord, where the vocal ensemble
lends an inspirational edge, following the tasty guitar lead that
opens into angelic keyboards. The title track borrows from reggae
with syncopated guitar strums and sunny lead vocals in a more
traditional Jamaican style that are answered by the vocal chorus,
resulting in an appealing, yet unorthodox (for land-locked Indiana)
style. Instrument Of Your Love and Knock On My Door both offer
upbeat melodies to complement their encouraging lyrics and hand
percussion that adds variety and depth. Local pianist Ron McCrary
plays gospel-style piano on How Could He and Save Me O Lord, two
reflective songs that allow Donahue and the vocal ensemble to really
shine. The closing track, I Was Lost, differs from the rest of the
album in its simplicity, mixing two-part vocal harmony with a relaxed
R&B feel to create a very strong finale.
The sound of the album is fully professional, fitting in seamlessly
with other albums of the adult contemporary Christian pop genre.
There is a nice combination of live and synth instruments that adds a
nice variety. For instance, programmed drums are usually augmented
with a live kit or hand percussion to breathe life into the rhythm
section. Likewise Donahue’s voice is emotive and finds ample room for
expression in the varied and well-written song styles. This album is
available at Barnes & Nobles, Jericho Music & More and Anchor
Room.