Robert E. Person has truly outdone himself with his latest project, Next Level. An eclectic mix of contemporary gospel, urban inspirational, straight ahead jazz and some good old time church music, Person has positioned himself as an exceptionally-gifted vocalist, songwriter and minister of music.

Person opens the CD with the excitable track "Clap Your Hands". Perfect for the Christian dance club or a great aerobic workout, "Clap Your Hands" is an energetic urban-infused track of praise. Clapping hands and dancing feet will be moving all at once on this song.

"The Water", a mellow and smooth cut, is the first time the listener witnesses first hand the ease of Person's versatility. A smooth jazz, relaxed vibe, the song speaks of the need for God's people to be refreshed and renewed by the living water. Mario J. steps in as songwriter on this well-produced cut which builds to a dynamic musical conclusion. "The More Of You", a beautifully-orchestrated song beckons the Christian to get closer to God and yearn for the "more of Him". Person calls on the vocal talents of singer Sherice Johnson. Together, they are a match made in heaven and interpret this powerful love song to God with fervor.

Robert's polished vocals are mesmerizing and are the first thing the listener notices about the singer. But much more than just a breathtaking voice, Person has an uncanny ability to interpret a song. Flaunting the diversity of his gift, tracks like the urban-tinged "Smile", an inspirational gem, and the street savvy grooves of "So Glad" are musical delights. But Person can have "church" with the best of them. Especially on songs like the lead single "God Has A Plan". The track is undoubtedly a tear-jerker and certain reassurance to those wondering if there's a strategy in an unpredictable world. The slow song, which builds to an emotive climax, is penned by well-known Washington, D.C. gospel artist and songwriter Henry McKenzie Davis. Person does an outstanding job on this powerful and anointed track.

Another standout is the amazing song "And He Blessed My Soul". Melding elements of contemporary and traditional gospel music, the song is musical candy to the ear. Opening with the tickling of the ivories and just Person's gorgeous tenor, this song is definitely worthy of the repeat button. Destined to be sung in choir stands, it's the kind of song that grandma and her grandchild would both love. The song's message centers around God's ability to bless us "without a word". Another pretty tune is the 7-minute track, "Surely He Hath Borne Our Griefs". Reminiscent of Kirk Franklin's "Don't Cry", it's a heartstring-puller and a musical masterpiece. Perfect for the Easter season, Kenneth Louis writes a marvelous song that's made even better by Person's performance.

"Come Sunday", a jazz standard by legend Duke Ellington, is spiced up by Robert's wonderful interpretation. He doesn't stray far from the original interpretation of the song, but manages to still add his own special touch. He also adds that special "je ne sais quoi" to the title tune, "Next Level". Driving rhythms highlight this compelling track. A song destined to cross over to mainstream is the inspirational "If You Believe". Overflowing with pure motivation, this beautifully-orchestrated ballad is nothing but uplifting. Person sings and directs the listener to God who will "change your life today if you believe".

Next Level is simply an astounding gospel project by one of today's up-and-coming independent gospel artists. It's certain we'll be hearing more from Robert E. Person.

Robert Person Rises to the "Next Level"
Colette Harrod, The Vine

DC native Robert Person celebrated the August release of his second CD, "Next Level," with an enthusiastic crowd at the Psalm 117 Christian Coffeehouse in Silver Spring, MD.

Person, whose last release The Call has been warmly received locally, earning him multiple singing engagements, entertained about 50 people in the intimate club with songs that varied from the smooth and melodic to intense and robust. Coming four years after his debut, Person said the latest project Next Level is an ode to pressing on.

"The Call was a wonderful introduction to who I am as a singer, a musician, and a minister, but as we all continue to go through this journey, we want to go to the next thing," he said. "And I personally think that this CD is the next level - I do think it's up a notch."

Person and his ensemble burst onstage with "Taste and See," a contemporary jam from his first project, then moved to new pieces. Person displayed his vocal training in the 20-year-old classic, "God Has A Plan," while DC producer and keyboardist Allyn Johnson accompanied him.

"Smile," produced, co-written, and arranged by DC area producer Tyra McKinzie, got the crowd swaying. Local vocalist Ellisha McKinney co-led the tune with Person, gracing the track with her rag-time scatting and lady-like rap style.

In another classic tune, "And He Blessed My Soul (Without a Word)," Person showed vocal precision and professionalism, making the song his own while honoring the spirit in which it was written. The ensemble closed with the jazzy up-tempo tune, "Clap Your Hands," written by DC recording artist Kendall King and produced by Johnson. "I've grown a lot. I've been challenged, even in this project," Person said.Asked for favorites, Person said it is the classics that move him most.

"The one that speaks to my heart is 'God Has A Plan,' but 'And He Blessed My Soul' is a very close second," he said. "'God Has A Plan' is a timeless classic - the message never gets old. It's not a deep song, there's not a whole bunch of lyrics, it just simply says, follow Christ."