Nicole C. Mullen Sharecropper's Seed, Vol. 1 Word Records Adult Contemporary 04-03-2007

SCORE 88%

Nicole C. Mullen’s “Sharecropper’s Seed” is her most personal album yet, an intimate stroll through her family album, from sharecropper granddad to her own children.

Nicole C. Mullen comes by her sense of commitment honestly. Her maternal grandfather is the album’s inspiration, but he labored in other fields as well. Both he and Mullen’s paternal grandfather were Pentecostal preachers. His example was not wasted on Mullen who, besides her numerous music industry accolades (8 Dove Awards), also designs a clothing line, battles slavery in West Africa, and mentors young girls through an organization she founded, Baby Girls Club. One of the albums most heart-warming tracks, the prayerful “I Wish,” was inspired by these young women.

The opening title track sets the tone of intimacy immediately, Mullen’s startlingly pure vocals rippling over gentle acoustic strings, among them a movingly evocative cello. It is followed by the sizzling standout track, “So In Love,” featuring the “garbage can” percussion of Dan Weiner (“Stomp”) and Mullen’s earthy take on the song’s eclectic rhythms. The uptempo single “Convinced” declares her trust in the Everlasting Love, going out on a warm calypso ride. Island vibes are scattered throughout “Sharecropper’s Seed Vol. 1,” always adding warmth and a family feel, especially when teamed with Mullen’s rich tones. The percolating “Under the Shadow” is one of the best examples. The track winds down with her spoken words over joyous island riffing, and you can almost feel a tropical breeze move through the room.

Mullen’s clear vocals shine like refracted light through the organic instrumentation of “Fall,” soaring over the nimble violin, moving powerfully into free-flowing funk, and you’re left shaking your head in wonder. There’s more delight as the stellar project draws to a close, the lush strains of “Baby Love” reminiscent of The Wizard of Oz. I know, I know, it’s an odd reference, but I’m telling you, Nicole C. Mullen brings Judy Garland to mind here with her vocal purity, especially conspicuous in this song of gratitude.

“Sharecropper’s Seed, Volume 1” is well worth your attention. Nicole C. Mullen’s grandfather would be proud.