- A Review by Teresa Liao, A writer for Rikks Revues

From a serious worshipper comes the Undignified album overflowing with heavenly praise. Avery Stafford is the Worship Pastor for Valley Church in California. He is also the voice and a producer behind this soulful CD. With a bachelor's degree in Christian Ministry from Abilene Christian University and a master's degree in Pastoral Studies from Multnomah Biblical Seminary, Avery Stafford is a gospel singer with genuine faith and genuine talent.

With the exception of the classic 'How Sweet It Is To Be Loved By You' and the gospel favorite 'Listen To Our Hearts', Stafford both wrote and composed all the music and lyrics for this album. Avery proclaims that his songs' "explicit praise lyrics could lead to serious worship". And he does just that with a voice that could easily cross over to R&B. With lyrics such as "I wanna walk by faith and never by sight" and "I'll give praise to you now for the tears of the lamb", Avery Stafford pours his love for Jesus into his fifth album. Stafford's musical compositions and arrangements are as moving as his lyrics. The music taps you on the shoulder and asks you to stand up and join the choir.

Stafford is not a one-man show though. He shares this project with other musicians including Jared Duba (aka Jesus Disciple), the Valley Church Kids, and the Undignified Choir. Undignified is an album of praise and the teachings of Christ. It's fitting that Stafford would reach out to other musicians such as Patrick Collins, Courtney Morton, and Tony Bolivar who add particular flavor to the album with their brass and woodwinds.

Gospel / Worship music is all about harmony, not just in the music but also finding a harmony between people. Undignified accomplishes both those goals. Avery Stafford has a gift for music, lyrics and worship. If he does as well with his church group, then gospel and Christianity are in good hands. As for the Undignified album, it's doing well with 'Get My Praise On' hitting West Coast Christian Radio. It's a good jazzy number that'll make you sway with the chorus. Personally, I'd love to hear 'I Am' hit the radio.

  ( 5 Stars out of 6 )

Play MP3 Clip of Avery Stafford "How Sweet It Is"

Play MP3 Clip of Avery Stafford "I Am"