Mercy by Bryan Duncan (CD, Jan-1993, Word Distribution)

Although this classic vocalist is incredibly talented, the musical direction that he has taken in recent years is terribly amiss. He needs some professional counselling, some direction from industry leaders or marketing agents or something. While his old stuff is obviously dated, it is still classic R&B while the new era is such light fluff that it is disheartening. While many aging artists translate easily into contemporary pop and CCM, Duncan is not doing so as gracefully as some others. He is not reinventing himself well and this trend seems to continue thereafter.
Gone is his blend of 50's doo-op and white R&B, replaced by mellow offerings that sound hollow. There is nothing memorable on this cd. It makes me put Holy Rollin' or Have Yourself Committed into the stereo instead.
Admittedly, I added this review because most of my reviews are ultra-positive. I try to look for the good in all people and in everything. I added this one to balance things out and display some critical honesty. This cd is, simply put, boring.
Maybe Duncan's former genre is dead. It was nice to hear such vocal talent without the typical subject matter that crooned over female body parts. Alas, that was yesteryear.
His recent cd's, the new era in his career, are all as disappointing as this outing. Gone is his playfulness and satirical humour. Maybe he should pull a Russ Taff and join the Gaithers, although I wouldn't want to listen to this music at church either.

Love this cd - Songs are good for the soul, and mind. I had this cd a long time ago, but let my mom borrow it and she scratched it bad, so very happy I found it here! Long time favorite! Bryan Duncan is one of my favorites!

This CD is classic Brian Duncan. His bluesie voice has that bit of a cry. All songs are encouraging and aucoustically pleasing. The messages in each song are what keep me playing it over & over; they bear the feelings of each of us at different times throughout our lives.