::ALBUM REVIEW::

For over forty years, Patti LaBelle has stormed the world's stages with her amazing vocals and tremendous energy while demonstrating her passion for quality music in multiple styles and genres ranging from contemporary pop to funky R&B. While she is hailed as being a living musical legend, she has also boldly expressed her faith in Jesus Christ over the years and consistently incorporates gospel selections in her performances - a move that her labels have had a hard time fighting against. But she is Patti LaBelle and she remains committed to being who she is. Bold, courageous and determined. And with those elements, LaBelle has finally embarked on higher ground with the release of her debut gospel project; aptly entitled "The Gospel According To Patti LaBelle". It has been a number of years that this collection has been postponed for its release, but her claims of record labels fighting the idea made it difficult for the idea to see the light of day. But with Umbrella Recordings backing her, along with Universal Music Group providing distribution, the album becomes a reality. On board this collection is a lengthy list of well-recognized producers and musical artists stretching from R&B and gospel territories. But LaBelle clearly proves with her familiar belting and vocal declarations that she is the artist to watch.

There's much to like about LaBelle's musical contributions. Not just because of the big names on board, but most of the songs are constructed well and have memorable hooks and grooves. Nisan Stewart's "Anything", with support from Gerald Haddon and Mary Mary, creates an infectious urban tune balanced on cool piano tinkles and warm string overlays. Hip-hop superstar Kanye West guests on the extended remix and sets the inspirational tune up for urban radio. Yolanda Adams appears on "Where Love Begins", which captures an inviting melody with all the right R&B ingredients. On "Walking Away", LaBelle partners with CeCe Winans and creates a sister-to-sister experience full of support to tell their triumphs over tests and struggles. Both of their contributions to this soulful selection possess a considerable dose of unforgettable charm. Other favored additions on this collection include "More Than (He Loves You)" (which features a duet with J. Moss) and the moving worship ballad, "My Everything", featuring a stunning guest vocal from Wynonna Judd.

While there is a lack of traditional gospel here - a style LaBelle highly uses in her concerts - she does bring in a few memorable takes down memory-lane. The familiar classic, "Walk Around Heaven", opens up using the similar stellar production used on her remake of "Ain't No Way" and is aided with background support from Sammy McKinney's Inner City Mass Choir. LaBelle also revives her classic hit, "You Are My Friend", and delivers one of her best renditions ever. With beautiful string arrangements developed by Louis Anthony deLise and a heavenly vamp updated with the popular hymn "What a Friend We Have In Jesus", this song continues to bubble with emotion and joy. "God Ain't Through", produced by GospoCentric's Soul Seekers, allows LaBelle to render Southern charm on top a quartet drive.

While some may have a problem with LaBelle's failure to sing more traditional numbers, there are a few additional problems that may hurt the disc's credibility. Technically, it is impossible after hearing the wealth of talent on this disc and envision the same amount of excellence punctuated in the graphic design and linear note's photography...well it's possible here. Another obstacle to look into: the album opener ("Did You Pray Today") which features jazz/R&B sensation Patrice Rushen on the keyboards and Tye Tribbett & G.A. on background vocals, falls short of expectations and feels undeveloped. The album is also very short in its length and flies by like a breeze...even with the added extended version of "Anything".

Let it be said that Patti LaBelle doesn't need a large entourage to help her win a following in the gospel community, but it is an effort like this with a recognizable guest on each cut that makes it seem as if she needs the added support. But the renowned diva delivers powerful, passionate and spirited vocals on each assembled cut and can be matched with her R&B greatest hits. She is very comfortable singing these tunes - a definite plus - especially for someone whom in their forty year career has decided to work on releasing their first gospel project. Count it a blessing and worth the wait to hear Evangelist LaBelle finally on a gospel disc. Well done.