Forever Yours (Deluxe Edition)

Five years in the making, Forever Yours confirms Smokie Norful’s place in the forefront of contemporary gospel. He translates his experience as pastor of the Victory Cathedral Worship Center in Bolingbrook, Ill., into songs that speak to the hopes and setbacks of ordinary believers. Norful’s latest batch of songs combine sanctified lyrics with musical elements that reach beyond traditional gospel. A pop/rock melodic approach can be heard in “Run Run,” while “Imperfect Me” inspires comparisons with the sophisticated soul of ‘70s-era Stevie Wonder. “In the Meantime” embraces modern electronica sounds while delivering a message of patience and faith. The reggae feel of “Nothing Is Impossible” adds a summery twist to the proceedings. Norful doesn’t stint on his trademark ballads, offering such standouts as the elegantly rendered “No Greater Love” and the yearning “He Loves Me.” With production input from such studio veterans as Tony Dixon, Derek “D.O.A.” Allen, Elvis “Black Elvis” Williams, Aaron Lindsey, and Warryn Campbell, Forever Yours is as sonically impressive as it is spiritually uplifting.