Marcel Anderson – Still Living

Marcel Anderson
Still Living
Marcel Anderson Music (2014)
www.marcelanderson.com

By Bob Marovich

You’ve heard the saying, “I don’t look like what I’ve been through.” Marcel Anderson doesn’t look or sound like what he’s been through.

The title of Anderson’s CD is not hyperbole. His story, starkly presented in the accompanying book of the same title, is one of surviving a brutal attack that included severe sexual abuse. Despite the scars, he does not dwell on the past but lofts hallelujahs, in a handsome, elastic baritone voice, for surviving, and focuses on moving forward in his personal and spiritual journey.

Still Living is a fine DIY project. Anderson wrote, produced, sings, and helps accompany the album’s ten songs, though he receives support from his brother, Alphaeus (leader of the children’s choir Pure-N-Heart), on “He’s a Healer,” which morphs into meditative praise by the conclusion.

The song lyrics sound like prayers while the musical arrangements vary between urban AC and smooth jazz. Anderson evokes the urban AC vibe of Dave Hollister on “Let’s Get Started” and “His Security.” “Flying High” is a declaration of personal progress with a smooth jazz veneer. The album’s highlight, “Made this Way,” is a mid-tempo hand-clapper on being wonderfully made to praise God.

The songs themselves are hit and miss, as some of the lyrics wander from the main point, but Anderson is genuine in his delivery throughout. Reading the book and listening to the CD together is the best way to understand what Anderson has been through and where he is headed, though nobody can completely comprehend how terrifying his attack must have been.

“I’m not perfect but I’m trying / I’m doing the best I can,” Anderson sings on “Closer.” Still Living is proof positive that he is well on his way.

Three of Five Stars

Pick: “Made This Way.”