Gospel aggregation Lifesong launched their first musical effort, the 14-track album Wi Love Strong, last Friday at Emancipation Park in St Andrew.

“This album came out of our worship collective at Transformed Life Church (TLC),” Pastor Dwight Fletcher told the

Jamaica Observer.

According to Fletcher, two years ago he invited members to submit music with the end game being the compilation of an album to be produced by the church.

“Music speaks to the heart of people like nothing else can. So as a church, we have purposed to write and produce excellent worship music that reflects our culture as a congregation and as a people. It’s our call and this is the beginning of something great,” he said.

“Our modern take on gospel music doesn’t change the message,” he added.

Pastor Fletcher went on to explain that many of the current gospel staples themselves were criticised for being too secular when their music was first written and performed.

“This album really shows how to engage God on many levels at church, in your house, or in your car — and has songs which can be applied in all situations. Our prayer is that as you listen you will encounter God,” he explained.

The group consists of Karyl Peart, Janis Garel, Nikki Tucker, Andrea Smith, Francine Douglas, Jo-Ann Johnson, Omar Reid, Levoy Paul, Evrold Simms, Kamar Forest, Michael Watson, Mark-Anthony Reid, Marlon Senior, Christopher Campbell, Roel Miller, Maurice Bailey, and Rouaj Sterling.

With a music video out for the album’s lead single, Wi Love Strong, the current plan for the group is to tour in support, as well as fine-tune material for their untitled sophomore release.

Wi Love Strong is available locally on CD and via digital download through the major online platforms.