Chosen

Item: Abakhethwa
Author: David Luck

Abakhethwa

(1996)

Reviewed by David Luck

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Label VerityThe LighthouseFebruary 1997

gospel r&b soul

Chosen is a male quartet whose roots are in Soweto, South Africa, and their faith is in the Lord as expressed through their debut release. Chosen offers a diversity in their music that few groups can pull off as successfully. The album is promoted as "accessible R&B-flavored pop," but don't be surprised if you sense a reggae beat, or find yourself enjoying what might be better described as a modern-day hymn. This album is further rounded out with the inclusion of some very moving ballads and some tracks that can only be described as jazzy.

Chosen members Unity Nkosi, Isaac Mthethwa, Musa Motloba, and Sipho Mbesa show they have been influenced by the music of their homeland and I also hear a strong influence coming through from groups like Boyz II Men, 4Him, and Take 6. Chosen also claims influences from Stevie Wonder, Luther Vandross, Michael Jackson, Andraé Crouch, and Reverend James Cleveland.

Whether they are performing with musical accompaniment or a cappella, their sound is rich and full and they harmonize in an especially beautiful way. I have also been extremely pleased with the lyrical content of their songs, and the inclusion of lyrics that are written and sung in their native tongue. The second track, "We Can Live Together," is a very smoothly flowing song with some great lyrics. It offers us a biblical reminder to Christ's calling for each of us to reach out to those in need.

I am my brother's keeper Gotta lift him when he's down Reach out a helping hand It's time we come together Let's pull the strongholds down Through His eyes we can do it We can turn this world around

I found Chosen to be very easy listening and challenging to me through their lyrics. Their song "No More Pain" is an inspirational ballad that speaks of the Lord's deliverance from pain and sorrow caused by the heartache of losing a loved one. It also addresses the hope we have as believers knowing that God's Word promises we will one day be reunited with our Lord.

Of all the tracks on this project I found "Keep Holding On" to be the most meaningful. For me, it speaks directly to my heart about the loneliness and emptiness I feel without the presence of the Lord within me. This void is expressed throughout the world in every culture and many have tried to fill this void in their lives with all sorts of beliefs. Chosen brings us the Good News from half-way around the world that it is only Jesus Christ who can fill the emptiness of our souls:

God is that friend who cares Who is always there Listens to every prayer You're always on His mind So when hard times press in Just call on Him He'll be right there To answer your prayer He'll be right on time O' you just keep holding on.

Chosen is the choice for me!