GOD'S SON: The album cover for Jason Mighty's debut release, Cornerstone.

Cornerstone (J-Mighty and VP Records)
Artiste: Jason Mighty

Overall rating: B+

GOSPEL singer Jason Mighty's breakthrough debut album, Cornerstone, which has been getting major buzz from Jamaica to the Eastern Caribbean to the United States, is worthy of all the hype as it offers an irresistible compilation of soul-stirring, wholesome and inspirational music.

The 17-track CD boasts heavy reggae, dancehall and other flavourful influences, but the singer shows off his pop tendencies with cuts like Repent and Señorita (featuring Promise). He does, however, retain enough of his praise-and-worship flourishes with singles like Angels, God's For You and the popular Be Magnified - and grandiose, in-your-face choruses such as Da Vinci Code and Ready (featuring big bro Prodigal Son) that are sure to keep long-time fans satisfied.

Mighty also takes on a variety of socially-based subject matters that listeners can relate to - chief among them, the common Christian desire to enter the pearly gates on Judgement Day, as featured on the hit One Soul (with gospel kingpin DJ Nicholas). Also worthy of note are Can't Walk Alone and Hallelujah, while deejay Goddy Goddy lends a verse on the track Careful.

After a couple listens, you can't help but admit that there's something unsettlingly precious about Cornerstone. Maybe because the listener can feel that the artiste has poured so much of his memoir-worthy life experiences into the record that the "cup runneth over".

At the same time, the album was lovingly assembled with a production squad that included Danny Brownie and Dale Virgo. The subtlest tweaking of elements lets you hear even the old-school influences as something altogether fresh and inspiring.

A rich voice like Mighty's deserves its own spotlight and on Cornerstone he gets plenty opportunities to shine. Still, there's always room for improvement. But as it is, Cornerstone is a fascinating debut from an artiste who proves that he's committed to sharing the blessings that God has bestowed on him - and all that's left in store.

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