Melodies of My Heart

Yet another member of the legendary gospel family the Winans goes solo (after several recordings with sister Debbie), and the result is perfectly produced R&B with very seductive vocals whose lyrics are directed upwards. The first three cuts offer unique surprises. "Come Go With Me" is more of an atmospheric instrumental with Winans texturing her voice as background vocals which sweep in on occasion. "Changing My Whole Life" cleverly twists the Roberta Flack classic "Killing Me Softly" into a story about Jesus' impact on the believer, and Winans' riff on "The Lord's Prayer" is destined to become an inspirational classic. "Let 'Em Go" is a funky, brassy dance tune with an En Vogue type attitude, while tunes like "Spirit Lullaby" and "He Loves Me" are quiet, intimate reflections that are best delivered in a whispery tone. The collection is balanced mostly between these two realms, hard-hitting R&B (including the jazz-funk instrumental "Mack Avenue" and the retro soul hip-hop of "Little Debbie") and soft, sensuous prayer music. "I Wonder" is a torchy ballad which tests out Winans' ample pipes. A nice mix of spiritual material overall that should appeal to fans of R&B, CCM, and smooth jazz alike.