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Darcey Stewart and Moiba Mustapha are two gospel messengers who are absolutely empathetic about meeting the needs of those who may be seeking God outside Sunday morning service. The Nashville duo, Joint Heirs, have professionally prepared and spiritually persevered through their songwriting and a steady working relationship of over ten years. With a tasty mix that easily crosses over to other contemporary urban formats, Joint Heirs' seasoned producing skills have drawn comparisons to such veteran gospel duos as Dawkins & Dawkins, and with their seamless lead vocal exchanges and tight delivery, Mary Mary. After Joint Heirs’ payment of musical dues, it is fitting their debut was titled, Until the Album Drops. Joint Heirs continues to drop their colorful canvas of old school gospel soul piloted by current hip-hop soul edges ever since. Continuing that urban gospel run is their third full-length project, The Solution.
Darcey Stewart and Moiba Mustapha are two gospel messengers who are absolutely empathetic about meeting the needs of those who may be seeking God outside Sunday morning service. The Nashville duo, Joint Heirs, have professionally prepared and spiritually persevered through their songwriting and a steady working relationship of over ten years. With a tasty mix that easily crosses over to other contemporary urban formats, Joint Heirs' seasoned producing skills have drawn comparisons to such veteran gospel duos as Dawkins & Dawkins, and with their seamless lead vocal exchanges and tight delivery, Mary Mary. After Joint Heirs’ payment of musical dues, it is fitting their debut was titled, Until the Album Drops. Joint Heirs continues to drop their colorful canvas of old school gospel soul piloted by current hip-hop soul edges ever since. Continuing that urban gospel run is their third full-length project, The Solution.
The Solution showcases the Joint Heirs’ praises and testimonies beyond the grooves. “Intro” hypnotizes with a riveting guitar-drenched ‘60s soul soundtrack centering on a matter-of-fact preacher answering the question to the solution: “He is light and in Him there is no darkness at all.” Then there is the title track which deals with one’s decision to remain spiritually non-complacent: “I never will be satisfied with just getting by/I need a solution,” driven by a One Republic like choral urgency. With a slick blend of R&B swagger, doo-wop and ‘70s soul, “This Song is for the Sick and Tired” encourages those who are fed-up with frustrations. Where Joint Heirs occasionally runs aground is when they lean on Top 40 pop, such as “Beleevuh.” However, the British-pop laced, “Sanity,” lets the duo unleash more of their passionate soulful strut and “All My Needs” throws in some bluesy praise.
While Joint Heirs has a great handle on most of their material for The Solution, their neo-soul imprint on “Supernatural” loses its luster in comparison to Ben E. King’s deep funk classic from 1975. Yet, their own radio hit, “Wait,” about the power of prayer and patience, recalls such ‘80s and ‘90s male vocal groups like Boyz II Men and Silk.
Though there are a few miscues, Joint Heirs’ passionate sermonettes and musicality transcend The Solution into healthy plates of spiritual food for those who are seeking or rediscovering God.
Other Notable Songs: “You Gave Me Love,” “God’s Got It,” “I Gave It Up”
Vocals: 3.5 stars
Music: 3.0 stars
Lyrics: 3.0 stars
Production: 3.5 stars
SoulTracks Call: Recommended
By Peggy Oliver