J Moss – The J Moss Project

By Rene Williams

GospoCentric/Jive Records

J Moss is one of gospel and mainstream music’s most sought after producers for years. One third of the dynamic production team, PAJAM – consisting of Paul D. “PDA” Allen, Walter Kearney and James Moss – the group is responsible for making hits for some of the top names in music. Artists like Karen Clark-Sheard, Hezekiah Walker, ‘N Sync, Michelle Williams, Dru Hill, Boyz II Men, Kelly Price, Patti LaBelle, Jennifer Lopez, Backstreet Boys, Missy Elliott, Nancey Jackson and Mase, just to name a few.

Few knew that in addition to being in high demand as a producer, J Moss is an artist as well. As a matter of fact, he was supposed to be one of Island Def Jam's first gospel acts, but took a backseat to his cousin, Karen Clark-Sheard, when the label signed her instead. But Moss believes to everything there is a time and a season and that all things work together for good. He also believes his season is now. And now, the world finally has a chance to hear the ministry of this talented young man.

Releasing his debut project, The J Moss Project, he stuns the gospel community with his tight tenor vocals on this perfectly produced collection of songs. J Moss introduces himself with the danceable track, I Wanna Be. The song is about being all that God wants. The catchy hook is hypnotic. Don’t Pray & Worry is a fast-moving, inspirational jam. The song ministers to those who pray and worry. Moss encourages us to leave our problems with God. Although the song has a strong urban vibe, there’s an element of the traditional on the cut as well. Moss pulls out a pretty ballad on the track We Must Praise. The song gives the singer a chance to showcase his impressive tenor vocals. He ends the song accapella, closing the song in a mode of worship. You Brought Me is another body-moving track about God’s ability to deliver.

Also included on The J Moss Project is the reality-based track Livin’ 4. The track is about someone who chooses to leave an unrighteous relationship for God. Written by PDA and Moss, the song is certainly one that many will be able to relate to. The laid-back urban vibe of the song is quite mellow. Unto Thee continues the mellow flow, but introduces a mindset of worship. Don’t Let speaks of making sure life doesn’t get to us and steal our joy. The song finds J exhorting during the song. Again, mixing the elements of modern and traditional, Don’t Let is a toe-tapping church tune. The More I Think is a great song about pondering the goodness of God. Psalm 150, reminiscent of Trin-I-tee 5:7’s Holla, is a bumpin’ groove. Slowing things down a bit, Give You More is a nice, melodic song about a desire to give the Lord more. Give You More is followed by Me Again. The track, penned by Moss (as are all the songs on this project), is one that will bring some to their knees. It’s a plea of forgiveness to the Lord and a very poignant track. Work Your Faith, a bonus CD track, finds Moss truly ministering and encouraging people to hold on to their faith. It’s a well-written song, too.