If you're looking for a cd with energy, inspiration and anointing, look no further than 'Songs Volume 1' by Jason Shepherd & Another Level. Lovers of Natalie Wilson & SOP, Tye Tribbett & Greater Anointing and Israel & New Breed will be immediately drawn to this offering by Jason Shepherd & Another Level. On his first offering, Jason Shepherd takes on the role of Executive Producer, Co-producer, writer and arranger. These individually are difficult tasks in and of themselves, but Shepherd masters each with his own style and gifting.

'The Way It Is' lead by guest vocalist Gina Thurston is a smooth, infectious song that speaks to the listener in the very voice of God. Ms. Thurston & Another Level encourages us with the reminder that God will always be there, and that He'll never stop loving us..and that's just the way it is.

'Sacrifice of Praise' is an awesome song where the band gets to showcase it's anointed and professional flava. The harmonies from this group are so tight and mesmerizing, that you can't help to hit the repeat button on your cd player again and again. This song offers God the praise for all He's done and the hard rocking guitar ending will no doubt be popular with young people.

'Follow You' is lead by anointed vocalist Carya Holmes. Her smooth vocals make the listener want to commit themselves totally to the will of God. This song can easily be utilized by church worship leaders on any given Sunday morning service or even during altar call. Yes it's just that powerful.

'No Place Like Home' reminds the believer that we are only here on this earth temporarily. Vernard Burton's smooth and anointed falsetto sweeps the listener off their feet, and makes them long for that home beyond the clouds.

'Vessel' lead by Rachel Parker is an infectious song penetrating the very soul of man. Her smooth, jazzy vocals are never overpowered by the music and this allows the full meaning of the song to be felt by the listener. The intricate vocal stylings on this one shows the diversity of this anointed group. Sean Hinton speaks through his lead guitar with a solo on this one.

'How Great Thou Art' is a song that will bring to mind the styling of James Hall & Worship & Praise. This song is worship in its purest form. The vocals are only accompanied by a piano which is also the typical Richard Smallwood format. True worshippers everywhere will be falling on their faces before Almighty God while listening to this one. On the chorus, church bells are added to make this already marvelous song more majestic. If you close your eyes while listening to this, you can get a glimpse of heaven as the angels sing both day and night to the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords. This is definitely one of my favorites.

'Learning to Lean' was made popular by the 80's quartet group called The Everyreadys, however, Shepherd offers his own rendition and makes it his own. Rachel Robinson's deep, rich vocals make you feel her very heart as she makes the listener aware of her dependency on the Master.

'Comforter' is introduced by Shepherd as he utilizes the scriptures to encourage the listener that Jesus has not left us alone but that He has sent us a comforter. Karees Brown (one of the background choir members) and Niecy Robertson of Another Level take turns thanking God for the comforter. Shepherd narrarates and reminds us that 'He'll never leave you, He won't forsake you, He'll walk right beside you, the comforter, the comforter has come.'

'Until You Bless Me' begins with a funky intro and the words of Jacob are made relevant by Another Level for today's generation throughout the song. While the band jams (and I do mean jams) on the chorus, Shepherd gives shout outs to a host of people responsible for their help on this project. On the end, even though he admits he's not a singer, he even has some fun trying to riff. The groove is just that contagious.

Natasha Robinson closes out this project leading the song 'Don't U Cry'. The listener is encouraged not to give up, things will get better in a little while. Robinson sings the words 'Joy is coming' so intensely and passionately until it begins to sink in to the listeners' spirit.

This project by Jason Shepherd & Another Level is a must have for every believer. Each song on this cd will meet you at whatever state you find yourself in. I give this project 5 out of 5 stars. Trust me you will be hearing more from this dynamic group. Remember you heard it here first.