Pastor Marvin Sapp shines on “Close,” the uplifting promo single from his new album of the same title, arriving September 29.

Pastor Marvin Sapp is one of the big names in contemporary gospel music.  He became bigger in the music industry when he did something rare – scored a hit on pop radio with “Never Would’ve Made It.”  The hit propelled his album, Thirsty to gold status, a rarity beyond the likes of Kirk Franklin in gospel circles.  Furthermore, his next album, Here I Am, debuted at no. 2 on the Billboard 200.  A gospel album? Whoa! Sapp, returns with a new single, “Close,” which serves as the promo for his new album, Close, arriving September 29.

Marvin Sapp showcases a beautiful vocal tone throughout the course of “Close.” As the song progresses, the performance grows progressively more rousing, thanks to authentic, emotional lead vocals, backing choral vocals, and dynamic production.  Gospel music is naturally filled with the spirit, meant to uplift its recipients, much like the minister at the church “fills up” the parishioners.  “Close” packs the same punch, giving the listener the utmost hope and conviction to make it through life’s hardships and many tribulations.  In that regard, “Close” is pitch perfect.

There are no glaring cons in regards to “Close.  The harmonic progression features the normal twists and turns of contemporary gospel, adding to the flavor.  Again, the vocals are extraordinary, and there is no shortage of hope.  If one is to nitpick, naturally the comparison point is “Never Would Have Made It.” “Close” is patterned after it, like other songs that materialized since that game changer (“The Best in Me” and “My Testimony”).  But is that even a con? No. Furthermore, doesn’t one always feel bad criticizing a song praising the Most High?

Final Thoughts

Brilliant. “Close” is simply brilliant. Even a non-believer will feel hard-pressed not to be at least inspired by the emotion and the hope Marvin Sapp sings about here.  It’s well-performed, well-produced, and well-written.  Consistency is the name of the game for Sapp, but more fittingly, it’s praising God to the utmost.

Marvin Sapp • Close • Provident • Release: 9.29.17

Photo Credit: Provident