Rance Allen Group - A Soulful Experience (1992)

A couple of decades before such stylistic melding would became popular among gospel artists, Rance Allen and his brothers merged the dynamics of soulful rhythms, gospel lyrics, and Rance's testimonial lead vocals. This effort was produced by acclaimed Stax alumnus David Porter, who also co-wrote seven of the selections. The highlight from this album is the proverbial lyric and stirring rhythms of "Ain't No Need of Crying." Rance's versatile vocals sail up and down the register from squeals and cries to riffs and sighs without forsaking solid, cohesive vocals throughout the verses and chorus. The gospel gem peaked on the Billboard R&B charts at 61 after a nine weeks. On "Talk That Talk," Rance utilizes his vast vocal reportoire to personify a riveting guitar. The Michigan native slows his delivery on the introspective "Just Found Me." The Allen brothers are consistently excellent on every selection.