::ALBUM REVIEW::

Renowned choirmaster Ricky Dillard scored a groundbreaking achievement with "No Limit" (2000); his fifth album release with the New Generation Chorale and the second release on the Crystal Rose label. Each of Dillard's previous works possess a strong likeable factor and tends to show major artistic growth from album to album, but "No Limit" showcases energetic character and allows Dillard to utilize all of the styles he dabbled with before successfully on this one project without any sign of compromise. Not only is the sound more polished and constructed that the former projects, but it's much balanced and is refreshing from start to finish.

The album jumps off with the midtempo funk of Dillard's "The Holy Place". Even though the music is quite simple and doesn't change much, there is an enjoyment heard in New G's performance on the urban/hip-hop infectious groove. But it is the serious churchy cuts that deliver the goods here - from the sanctimonious joy heard in Lavarnga Hubbard's lead vocals on "Let The Redeemed Say So" to the jazzy arrangement of Dillard's classic 1993 hit "You Oughta Been There". And there's more to savor. Freddie Washington's "God's Will Is What I Want" is fabulously rendered and is highly aided with impressive modulations and passionate staccato punches. "If We Faint Not" is a glorious revisit to hand-clapping, foot-stomping church. Its killer tempo set by drummer Calvin Rodgers, along with Michael Taylor's complimentary gospel touches on the organ, sets the pace of this pounding tour de force. Dillard also pulls out a number of original compositions from his songwriting arsenal; ending all mysteries surrounding his composing skills. "Oh The Joy", a contemporary track layered with cool instrumentation and snappy choral deliveries, shines strongly while the groovalistic "That's Just Like Him" allows Dillard to play with House/Dance music again.

Slowing down some of the juicy jams offered here may be a hard task, but Dillard does a good job doing that. He pulls Darius Brooks' "The Promise", the title track from his debut gospel project, back out and relives the unforgettable ballad with a stronger pulse and a smoother choral beauty. Donald Lawrence delivers spoken word exhortations on the repetitive vamp; setting the stage for intimate moments of prophecy. Rudolph Stanfield's "No Greater Love" shares in the winning formula captured on Dillard's previous offerings (recall: "Power In The Blood", "How He Loves Us", "Jesus Paid It All"). Here you have a song that develops around a lengthy solo from Charnetta Richardson and then finally working its way into a sensitive response from the choir. But there's no dry spell here - every minute flows into a tantalizing moment worth experiencing. Plus, there's the powerful lyrics of encouragement captured in "Things Will Work Out For Me". Dillard leads the way with a strong organ and New G's engaging harmonies delivering the right amount of gospel affection.

With stellar production, engaging compositions and a talented crew of musicians on board, this collection still bubbles with excitement and abundance. Compare this one, if you like, with most gospel choir projects. This one is a sure winner and should bring delight to those seeking good traditional and contemporary gospel music for the gospel choir scene.