Louder Than The Music

Noel Robinson - Outrageous Love

Artist:

Noel Robinson

Title:

Outrageous Love

Type:

Album

Released:

11 Sep 2015

LTTM Rating:

Your Rating:

Review

“Get your praise on tonight” is not a phrase I’ve come across before reviewing this album but I think it’s a phrase I might slip into my church vocabulary. I got the impression it was an non-negotiable instruction and anyone in the crowd for this live gathering would have immediately got swept up with the tide. The message is clear: we’re here to do business, let’s get down to work straight away.

Noel Robinson and my music collection haven't been acquainted until now but I’m left with no misconceptions about what, and who he’s singing about. Theres no wishy...
Read More “Get your praise on tonight” is not a phrase I’ve come across before reviewing this album but I think it’s a phrase I might slip into my church vocabulary. I got the impression it was an non-negotiable instruction and anyone in the crowd for this live gathering would have immediately got swept up with the tide. The message is clear: we’re here to do business, let’s get down to work straight away.

Noel Robinson and my music collection haven't been acquainted until now but I’m left with no misconceptions about what, and who he’s singing about. Theres no wishy washy “I’m having a bad day and I need you Jesus” lyrics: this is all hit me right between the eyes with the facts of our faith territory. I won’t lie to you, there’s no excusing the endless stream of truths in the lyrics: it’s there in your face and unavoidable. This swaggers, struts, and downright shimmies its way down to the altar ready to respond, all tightly performed, underpinned with solid grooves, with vocal performances pushing vocal cord boundaries not often challenged in Christian circles, sung from the heart, and the body and soul too.

The title track Outrageous Love is pure gospel soul that lays it out clear on a plate.

Rain combines modern worship with gospel: it’s a fantastic blend.“It’s raining, it’s pouring” we hear, but the old man is definitely not snoring, as this is a loud, bold proclamation, moving into prophetic utterance.

The band are as sharp as the clothes I imagine they were wearing on the night, I’m transported clapping, singing, sweating and no doubt avoiding the big bloke who always stands in front of me occasionally treading on my shoes. The atmosphere of the evening is caught well, but perhaps sitting in my 2015 lounge it’s a little dated musically, with hints of 80’s keyboards, daytime TV guitar solos, and electric drum fills, but it’s all well intended, and delivers the job to the requirements, all delivered wholeheartedly.

The collection is full of the big bold truth that perhaps we take for granted, so it’s good to be reminded to make sure we remember not to forget. I listened and reviewed this whilst preparing an application form for a job, and the whole upbeat feel of the album got me really fired up and typing fast. I just hope I haven't got the two documents confused whilst typing them, but I confirm I am willing to work weekends and can provide references on request.

Review by Philip Aldis

LTTM Rating 4 Out of 5 Stars
Standout Tracks
You hold everything
Outrageous love
Rain