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 - real niceWhen I heard the song "Do You Know Him", which is a hit, I had to get the CD. At first I was disappointed because I thought the CD was kind of boring. But as I kept listening the songs grew on me and I really started enjoying the CD. Marvin Sapp did a good job with this one. The songs that were my favorite were: Do You Know Him Be Exalted Changed Holy That Name Smile I would recommend this CD to add to any gospel collection. It is really enjoyable. Rating:  - Marvelous MarvHere is truly one of gospel music's outstanding vocalists and in my opinion, one who has yet to achieve the recognition he deserves. In fact, leading up to this project's release date, there was very little elaboration, if any, about it. Though I knew about his forthcoming CD, for many it just happened to show up on music store shelves one Tuesday in July. The album is a blend of Praise and Worship, along with Ballads and Holy Ghost Funk. Marvin enlists a who's who of writers on this effort, including Aaron Lindsey, Tommie Walker, Steve White, Israel Houghton and Percy Bady. I especially enjoyed the foot stomper, "Do you know him?", the Latin flavored mover, "That Name" and Dr. Sapp's take of the Rudolph Standfield classic, "Perfect Peace," produced by Donald Lawrence. "Be Exalted" is signature Marvin Sapp and for those who are already a part of his growing fan base - you will not be disappointed. Rating:  - Minister Marvin does it againIt's for certain that when Marvin Sapp releases a new album, it will be a quality set, whether it's good or great. As a long time objective follower of Marvin's music, I can tell you that Be Exalted is GREAT. The lyrical content of the songs is excellent, and will encourage you with words that clearly speak of God and His absolute power. The diversity of music is terrific without ever disturbing the flow of the album. I respectfully disagree with the prior reviewer about Marvin's voice being an uncomfortable fit with contemporary sounds (although the "Oh my goodness" expression on certain songs is a little strange). The voice! Marvin has always stood out in the midst of a sea of talented gospel singers from Detroit. He is truly a vocal artist and technician, since careful listeners will hear something new in what he does with a phrase upon each listen. His vocals usually have this quality, but on this set he really shines without succumbing to the current trend of going overboard. Production is top-notch, the songs are melodic, the band and background vocalists are on point, and Marvin delivers some of his most intense singing ever, spiced with his trademark spoken words. Be Exalted is one of the best efforts of 2005, gospel or otherwise. Rating: - An Anointed Psalmist !Brother Marvin does such an extraordinary job of weaving those elaborate melodies with lyrics from Scripture producing a wonderful praise tapestry lifting up the Name of Jesus Christ. The masterfully executed musical complexities engulf you into the praise along with the musicians, I love that. There is such incredible power when the Word of God is put to music! Each selection is a rousing testament to Brother Marvin's deep love for our Lord Jesus and his zeal for Him. Even the prayer of thanks in the CD liner is a blessing. He ministers in such an anointed way on each song with encouragement, exaltation and exhortation--this is the blessing of a psalmist after God's own heart. Rare is the CD that hits the mark on every selection from the top, all 13 tracks! The entire project is infused with anointing from God. "Be It Unto Me"; both mixes of "Do You Know Him?"; the title track "Be Exalted"; "Perfect Peace"; "That Name"; "Strong Tower" all thrust this project into the "must have this in your collection" category. I will be recommending it highly to all my family and friends. I can see this project being an award winner. Praise God for you Brother Marvin and for your being obedient to allowing the Holy Ghost to move through your ministry to the glory of God. May Jesus forever BE EXALTED! Rating: - The Preacher that SangsAlthough this cd didn't grab me like "Diary of a Psalmist". Because, if he sings it, I buy it. But, after hearing him sing 3 cuts (2, 5, & 6) live on the day of the release. I remember saying...I don't remember hearing that song. I have to say I had to go back and listen again. Man I was blown away. I must agree, he does his best work live. Although the majority of this cd is studio work his vocal work is on overtime. The background singers are good too. They attempt a live feel on some of the songs. I really don't think he has a traditional or contemporary style...it's just Marvin. Thats the one thing I love about him. He can take any song and make it his own...If you've ever heard him sing Fred Hammonds "No Weapon". You'd think he originally sang it. In addition to that, he ministers the word of God through song. And although it may not be in "choir rotation" it surely will get radio rotation. This cd is HOT. His remake of "Perfect Peace" #6 is heaven sent and is a sermon all by itself. And #9 "That Name" it has a caribbean feel, he is singing his face off. #12 "He Won't Fail" this is a song of hope and faith...he reminds you that God won't fail. Those three have to be my favorite on the entire cd. But the other songs I really love are 1,2,3,4,5,8, & 10 . They are well written,produced and sang You will surely be blessed! I've allowed friends (saved and unsaved) to listen and purchased additonal copies to give out and and they love it.
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