We All Are One (Live in Detroit)

AMG Review of We All Are One (Live in Detroit)

Steve Leggett
All Music Guide

Mixing both studio cuts and tracks recorded live at Straight Gate Church in Detroit, MI, Donnie McClurkin's seventh solo album -- and his first in four years -- features his trademark smooth baritone voice over an eclectic set of praise and worship songs, some of which could almost pass for secular pop/rock. The themes are very much spiritual ones, though, and McClurkin is adept at making his songs speak both specifically and generally in that regard, and he's always recognized that love, in all its guises, is a very big word, and when he sings about reaching toward God, the best of his songs seem to touch on more earthly concerns, as well. Karen Clark Sheard, CeCe Winans, Yolanda Adams, and Mary Mary have guest turns here, and it all adds up to a buoyant, uplifting, and joyous set.