TAWANDA CHARI
CalvinMadeIt’s debut album Saved From Ourselves is a profound expression of faith and spirituality. Clocking in at over an hour with 23 tracks, the album is clearly ambitious. The cover art sets the tone before a single chord plays; a wooden cross crowned with thorns and surrounded by white roses and doves. That's a powerful image.
The album's title itself serves as its guiding principle: to be protected from the negative consequences of our own actions, choices, or tendencies, often those that are self-destructive or harmful. This profound theme is meticulously woven throughout the project, aligning seamlessly with core biblical tenets of salvation from sin, the recognition of humanity's separation from God, and the indispensable role of God's grace. Saved From Ourselves emphatically steers clear of self-help narratives, instead championing the transformative power of a Savior and the acceptance of God's unmerited favor.
CalvinMadeIt masterfully leverages a diverse array of vocalists and storytellers to articulate these themes. This speaks volumes about Calvin's production prowess. His ability to guide such a multitude of voices, each bringing their unique life experiences and perspectives, into a unified narrative arc is truly commendable. The tracks, while distinct in their individual expressions, collectively echo the overarching message.
Lyrically, the album draws deeply from biblical teachings. It wrestles with the [often agonizing] condition of being – sin, self-sabotage, brokenness and constant returns to the source of hope: God’s grace (in this context, the ultimate respite). It’s not a self-help album.
From the heavy reflections of artists like Leodale and RayKaz, to the melodic spirituals from Michael Kalizi and Elizabeth Tendai, there’s a wide emotional palette. Tracks shift between praise and introspection, testimony and teaching. On some songs, like those featuring SHALdo or Prxfcxy, you get a glimpse of youthful vulnerability. Others, like ASAPH AFRIKA or BlackLazarus (please, keep an eye on this talent) bring a prophetic urgency. And yet it all blends together seamlessly.
One of the album’s strongest qualities is its refusal to be boxed in sonically. While strongly anchored in Christian themes, it borrows from R&B, hip-hop, trap soul, and Afro-fusion elements, creating a sound that feels modern to this generation of believers and seekers alike.
At its core, Saved From Ourselves is an acknowledgment that humanity, when left to its own devices, drifts. But with divine guidance, we can course correct. It's meant to be something like a ministry.
CalvinMadeIt may be a new name to some, but Saved From Ourselves plants him firmly among the country’s most purposeful producers.
A must listen body of work.
Album Rating: 6.6/10
Stream the album here: album.link/SFO
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