::ALBUM REVIEW::

Much can be said about the multi-talented sister duo of Erica and Tina Atkins. And it seems like the whole world knows of them and their efforts. If not they better. “Shackles (Praise You)”, from their first album, became a stand-out track on gospel radio and gained momentum on Contemporary Christian, R&B and club circuits. It seemed to many that this group could never reduplicate that kind of success. Colossal is the perfect word to describe such a feat. Well, Mary Mary didn’t create another “repeat” performance, but that never lost that edge. Their first album which also included “Somebody”, “What A Friend” and “Can’t Give Up Now” was certified platinum; proving this group was sure to stay in the spotlight. “Incredible” followed with a considerable amount of fanfare. This leads us to their third chapter, which happens to be a self-titled project, from Sony Urban/Columbia. Let it be said it has been three years since their last project, but already their fans are overjoyed with their jubilant return to the music shelves; sending this project to #1. Songs like the thick-bass “Believer” (perfect for a Destiny’s Child/Beyonce’ inspirational follow-up to “Survivor”) and the early-released single “Heaven” (possessing that familiar sample of Honey Cone’s “Want Ads”) bear a careful summary of good expectations for the project. And even the club-oriented stuff are bound to send off radical vibrations of excitement; helping Mary Mary to keep up with the crossover circuit. Amazingly, their lyrics are not doused down to appease any sensitive groups. Scripture and inspiration is there, but it is coated with the latest advancements in hip-hop and popular music. While “The Real Party (Trevon’s Birthday)” satisfies the ol’ skool crowd with its Latin influences and early 80s rap connections, House Djs are placing into heavy rotation the latest mixes of “Heaven” - one being by the highly respected Maurice Joshua of Nu Soul Inc. (But it is not found here). “Biggest, Greatest Thing”, co-written by David Delhomme, Dontae Wilson and Warryn Campbell, is a major throwback to the Big Band Era (ya’ know, Ella, Duke). It is short in song length, but is one of those authentic moments worth remembering.

Poignant songwriting skills are exemplified on the bulk of the songs; helping to prove Mary Mary’s the worth of their talent. But the songs do take a sleeping pill on the second set which pretty much falls into the ballad or slower-tempo category. And it seems as if each song gets slower and slower.

“Yesterday”, one of the latter songs, opens up like a slowed down version of The Supremes’ “Someday We’ll Be Together”, but the powerful vocals of Tina and Erica, along with a jazzy-tinged melody supported by a jazz rake, pulls this one through as one of the most endearing ballads of the year. If only they added this one towards the near end with one of the early jams...

Of course, Mary Mary are stylish singers and they have definitely proven they are notable songwriters and really have no need of having extra assistance in the production chair (especially since Warryn Campbell is on board). And they are such an act that even a guest appearance from Kirk Franklin isn’t necessary (even though he does appear on here unfortunately). This is not a put-down for Franklin though. It just goes to show you that when you got it, you got it. No need for extras or fillers or even the ever-popular guest list for Mary Mary. And while this project isn’t an improvement to “Thankful”, it is a monumental achievement proving Mary Mary’s status as a collective. Their work speaks for itself.