The Rev. John P. Kee’s latest CD release, “The Legacy Project,” does indeed project a legacy. The Charlotte pastor (New Life Fellowship Center) has enlisted the talents of some of the most prominent performers in the gospel music industry.

It’s a portable church service on CD featuring little more than an hour of outstanding, energetic, soul-stirring songs, testimonies and messages.

This CD features 12 tracks and is an overall excellent presentation. Be patient while the songs warm up, though, because the fire is on the way.

The first track, “Blessings Coming My Way,” featuring Rance Allen, sets the pace for a CD that is truly gospel. There’s no second-guessing that the “old-school” style prevails in this upbeat, harmonious coming together of the unique voices of Kee and Rance Allen.

"Breakthrough", featuring Joe Ligon (The Mighty Clouds of Joy): Begins with familiarity -- a burst of applause as soon as Ligon starts to sing. This lively piece calls for dancing. After hearing the convincing hook, “breakthrough is-coming,” you’ll believe it, and your feet will take care of the rest.

“Determined” featuring Harvey Watkins Jr. (The Canton Spirituals): Kee begins with a short (singing) personal testimony. Watkins, no stranger to gospel music, moves in smoothly and helps carry this number over the top in a slow groove.

“I love You”: Don’t think romance here -- it’s a tribute to Jesus. Kee delivers this one in prominent quartet style. The beats will remind you of a few neighborhood boys doo-wopping under corner streetlights…in a holy way, of course.

“You’ve been So Good” with Anthony Hamilton: Kee and Hamilton share their conversions from street life (noting local landmarks) enhanced with smooth, soulful music in the background. Kee dubbed it an “old-school groove.” This one is all that!”

“Praying For You” featuring Doug Williams and Rance Allen: A sweet, melodious, tribute to “grandma’s prayers.” While the artists feed off each other’s vocals, their individual singing styles stand out. Longest track on the CD.

“I’ll Serve Him” featuring Joe Ligon: Performed to the tune of the traditional (body-rocking) gospel song, “Believe I’ll Testify…While I Have a Chance.”

“I know you” featuring Fred Hammond: This one’s in the contemporary music “comfort zone.” Dedicated in memory of Ronald Winans, you have to double-check the CD because Kee pairing with Hammond makes it sound as if the Winans are actually “in the house.”

“Finally”: Kee’s raw talent prevails on this one. Beautiful and mellow. He pours out his heart with a few extra inserts of that coveted “hiccuping-sound” -- like the anointing just overtook him. It’s a sound that is exclusively Kee’s.

“He’ll Welcome Me” featuring Lowell Pye: A remake of the old-time favorite. Kee just made a good thing better. This song is timeless.

“Holy Hands” featuring Zacardi Cortez: Kee takes time to recognize a wheelchair-bound woman who was an inspiration to him. Set to slow, easy-listening music. Very touching addition.

“I’m Waiting”: Grand, grand finale! Kee and all those professional, anointed voices make this CD’s ending as great as its beginning. This last selection calls for dancing, too…just a little slower this round.

***Purchase This CD***

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