Favour - Your Love

Plagued by hard times, ridiculed of their vision, but most of all their continued perseverance, Keith Johnson and Frederick Reed, better known as the duo ‘Favor’ released their second album ‘YOUR LOVE’ in Summer 2007. A fully self sufficient (all be it with Gods help) partnership, the two control full production at their home studio; FOTL (Favour of The Lord), writing lyrics, tracks and performing all vocals, Johnson and Reeds early paralleled vision was the glue for this accomplished bond.

This album has been on my shows play list since Autumn last year; to say it was introduced to me by one of my secular DJs will perhaps give you an indication of the ‘flavour or Favor’
Pretty much on rotation for secular sets on the radio, What Do You Want is perhaps my soulful favourite (if I REALLY REALLY had to choose, ok and Holiness Without). Vocal arrangements reminiscent of those of the very early ‘Blackstreet’ (yes remember them?) even down to the TALKBOX. I hear you scratch your head, perhaps you would remember the heavily synthesised vocals of Teddy Riley (Guy, yes and Blackstreet) or indeed the early pioneer, Roger Troutman in Zapp, TALKBOX!

Most of ‘YOUR LOVE’ is soft soul with syncopated nuances, most welcomed by my music taste, what comes through is Favor’s passion for music, most of all the love for God, and their endeavour to promote it. ‘More Like You’ is a beautiful track, laced with endearing words. I personally think I understand the duo through this pace in their repertoire. Not dissimilar, ‘Take Me Away’ is yet another delight, abounding with scripture reference, yet again strives for Gods love and desire for it. Great production with depth, delivers the mid 80’s soul, with late 90’s bass line sound all fused for a 2000 ear, bravo!!

I love the song ‘Don’t Wanna Be Rich’, I like the words and the motion of the track. Opening with prayer and affirmation to God, explaining the reasons why they (Favor) sing. I guess it’s fair to say, I’m a sucker for heart rendering ballades, it true! A very honest account of humility and venturing into The Kingdom; “I don’t wanna be rich, if that means turning my back on you….id give it all up for you…. don’t need no mansion on a hill, as long as I know who You are, I don’t have to be a star.” Amen!

I wouldn’t be doing my job if I didn’t account for the faster tracks; it’s just that the flow of this album is much more relaxed. However ‘Why’ is a valiant effort at an upfront pace with good production, perhaps an enhanced display of their vocal range and rap found in this track.
A 17 track offering, to be honest I am hard pushed to press ‘skip’ whilst playing this album. Its rounded to conclusion with a great track, ‘Prodigal Son’ what more can I say, this album is a must for any gospel lover or music connoisseur alike, an appreciation of Gods love, grace and blessings, truly a respected ‘soul’ album. I leave it in that genre, no need to play with sub categories, its worthy of that honour, and of course a purchase!

Reviewed by: DJ Yours Truly
Date: February 2008

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