David Phelps

My somewhat broad appreciation of all kinds of music brought me to the knowledge of David Phelps and his incredibly talented voice during his tenure as tenor for the southern gospel juggernaut, The Gaither Vocal Band. I watched anxiously as Phelps eventually made his exit from the southern gospel world and headed out into pop territory, much like previous GVB alum’s Jonathan Pierce and Michael English. And while Phelps’ talent is difficult to deny, his success in the CCM realm has been hit and miss, with but a few notable hits along the way. It’s just seemed as though the artist has tried just a bit too hard to be all things to his diverse audience, attempting to offer them each their favorite flavor.

Enter Phelps’ latest project, The Voice. The title alone suggests that the artist has in fact decided to go forward with his greatest gift and provide that audience with what we all want: big, powerhouse vocals that curl our toes coupled with an inspirational message. And, to some degree, this is in fact exactly what Phelps does. Over an array of covers sprinkled with a few originals, the Monroe Jones-produced project finds Phelps utilizing his voice to its fullest, hitting every note in pitch-perfect glory. But, as before, what lacks is any cohesiveness within the genres and theme within.

The review copy of the album provides Phelps’ commentary on this project, offering up a slight answer to our conundrum. He writes: “I, like you, feel my life has been a journey; an amazing journey filled with love, loss, fear, contentment, anger, joy…I’m sure you can add to the list…These are the things that make up the stories of our lives.” Later, he adds, “Phrases like ‘As I get older my secular experiences are becoming more spiritual than my spiritual ones’ began to ring true in my spirit.” Now we begin to see Phelps’ vision, his desire for our listening experience. Essentially, he has crafted this as a collection of experiences which we can all hopefully enter into and be familiar with.

So, is he successful? The answer simply, is sort of. While a few tracks like the cover of Foreigner’s “I Want to Know What Love Is,” Sarah McLachlan’s “Angel,” or the Righteous Brothers’ “Unchained Melody” fall a bit short, there are plenty of highlights to be found. The operatic classic “Nessun Dorma” is one such song, showcasing the artist’s voice in all its glory and opening up an appeal to Josh Groban fans everywhere. The artist also offers up a subtle rendition of “Moonlight”, showcasing a quieter side of himself.

In fact, it’s on those more subdued elements where Phelps’ really stands out this time around. We know he can sing; that’s no secret. Now we want to hear him perform. And perform he does, bringing his softer side to bear on repeat worthy songs like “Fly to You,” the self-penned “Your Love,” and a haunting rendition of “Angel Band.” The shift to the softer tracks doesn’t mean that the artist has lost his pipes by any means as the string-laden love song, “I Just Call You Mine” evidences. Add to that a country-tinged “Fly to You” and a James Bond-meets-West Side Story track in “Higher,” and you’ll hear the talented artist as you’ve haven’t heard him before.

David Phelps still seems to be searching for his sound. Yet, with The Voice, it feels as though he’s gotten a little closer to that proverbial Holy Grail. This release, more than any as of yet, seems to come closer to the heart of the artist despite it’s collection of covers. And, for any self-respecting fan of big vocalists, of which Phelps’ is at the highest echelon of, this is a great listen. Those looking for more ‘artsy’ fare would do well to hit up something else though.

↓ 2 comments

#1 Heather on September 5th, 2008 at 11:20 am

Josh Groban fans, huh? I’ll have to check this guy out. (I’ve pretty much redefined Josh Groban fanaticism as we know it, in case I never told you that).

#2 James on October 21st, 2008 at 3:31 pm

This album is spectacular — I am especially fond of “Higher”, such an excellent and fun song! Displays his high range beautifully. But all songs on this CD are great, I mean it’s David Phelps!

Does it Resonate with you?

Name (required)

Email (will not be published) (required)

URL