From old-school R&B, to lively hip-hop, to heavily orchestrated ballads, one factor never varies: Cole's smooth vocals shine throughout. His contribution to Commissioned was always solid but I think he has much success ahead of him as a solo artist, and with the strongly Biblical slant to "Write My Song," it is a success we can all enjoy seeing.
"That's Alright (Cause I Got You)" starts things off nicely, with Cole's smooth vocals dancing their way through the funk guitar's gentle jazz flair. Next track "The Lord Has Been Good" has an old-school gospel feel before moving into a joyous jam, with some dazzling interplay between the vocals, funk guitar and the tight horn section. Things slow down a bit for a few tracks, "Finally," a smooth celebration of the rest we find in the Lord, and "Remember to Breathe," a stunningly produced ballad. Luther "Mano" Hanes co-wrote much of this album with Cole, but it is his production touches on "Remember to Breathe" that stand out. Layered with lush strings, full vocals and keyboard changes that add to the swirling affect of these airy arrangements, this song is an attention-grabber.
I enjoyed the livelier moments of hip-hop track "I Don't Know," featuring the rap of 2Five. The track is straight-up encouragement, rejoicing in the freedom we have in God. The programming touches and the solid beats light up this song and show more of Cole's versatility. He covers every style effortlessly, but it is on "Being With You," a sizzling worship song, that you hear Cole hit his groove. His vocals couldn't be any silkier on this R&B crooner, and his message is equally strong, confessing his failings honestly before returning to the glorious sanctuary of God's presence. His solid showmanship brings Smokie Norful to mind several times throughout the project, but ultimately Cole holds his own. The percolating rhythms of gentle ballad "You're There" are cleverly presented on yet another uplifting track. "Write My Song" is a very encouraging album all the way through, but Cole saves the best for last, tearing it up on the passionate closer "Bless My Soul." Initially it opens heavy with strings and a very classic feel to it, but as he makes his way through the self-penned ballad, his passion pours out powerfully.
As founder and co-CEO of PureSprings Gospel Cece Winans says, "There is nothing more powerful than a man worshipping God." And therein is the power of Marcus Cole's "Write My Song," simply put.
