Tasha Cobbs | Grace

Tasha Cobbs | Grace EMI Gospel By Peggy Oliver

When someone declares, “you were born to sing,” sometimes those compliments would ring true or it might be a bunch of hype. Unquestionably, Tasha Cobbs was born to sing. But Cobbs was born to accomplish even bigger things than just her obvious vocal skills. That critical gift is leading the masses into the presence of God that many gospel fans and industry cohorts have gravitated to.

Cobbs’ musical ministry was fulfilled and cultivated serving under her father, Bishop Fritz Cobbs. When she also had mentors like worship leaders Vashawn Mitchell, Pastor William H. Murphy III and Bishop Paul Morton in her corner, Cobbs was amongst extraordinary company. Her exuberant voice that decorates “Chasing After You” from Morton’s Cry Your Last Tear and the effortless joy behind “Happy” from her debut independent release in 2009, Smile, eventually garnered the attention of EMI Gospel. The comfort level she demonstrates in any style is beyond measure, as her praise inspirations run deeper than urban peppered church service. Besides her mentors’ accomplishments, she equally embraces the internationally acclaimed
Hillsong Worship team from Australia.

Cobb’s EMI Gospel debut, Grace which is co-produced by Mitchell, reprises two tracks from Smile and oozes plenty of vibrant vocals and sharply paced musicality. Though the intro on “Get Up” drags a bit, Cobb’s magnetic personality and the
superb backing choir quickly reels in the congregation with the punchy hook, “Let the people of God.” “Love You Forever” transcends beyond the urban worship zone adding pop and rock sensibility. The orchestral arrangement is nicely spaced, as the verses are sung with subdued instrumentation so the lyrics can marinate. Then Cobb invites everyone for acappella praises in the closing minute. “Happy” is full of bouncy enthusiasm: “So in love with you/ I can’t make it without You.” “Everything about You is right.” The other song from Cobb’s debut, “Smile,” pours out Cobb’s humility to honor God in every way: “Are you
pleased with my worship?/I want to make you smile.” Even when the tempo slows down, the passion keeps building up, as in the stirring “For Your Glory” and the title track. Of course, the empowering “Break Every Chain” is one of gospel radio’s ultimate highlights in 2013 with its potent vocal tandem of Cobbs and Timiney Figueroa Canton (Kurt Carr Singers) driving the spirited atmosphere throughout the all worthwhile
nine minutes.

There are only eight tracks on Grace, which in essence is the only minor beef. The absolute truth is quality
music ministers like Cobbs supersedes quantity any day without any hype whatsoever.

Five out of five stars.

Peggy Oliver
The Urban Music Scene