Faced with challenges from young upstarts like
Kirk Franklin,
John P. Kee -- one of the major innovators in contemporary gospel -- comes back strong with
Strength. All of the hallmarks of his music are here, but
Kee's sense of direction and musical acumen are at a near-peak. His blend of classic gospel, urban soul, and traditional R&B sounds as inspired as it ever did.
Kee's experiments with hip-hop ("Eastside/Westside") may be a little awkward, but
Strength overall proves that
Kee is a master at contemporary R&B-influenced gospel. ~ Rodney Batdorf