Rob Mercer's 'Photo Album' gets rave reviews; online listening party Tuesday

Inspirational artist Rob Mercer has been enjoying the feedback he's been receiving on his latest release, "The Photo Album." A clever mix of musical influences including Gospel, Jazz and Contemporary Christian music, The "Photo Album" is Mercer's debut release. With production from noted CCM recording artist Antonio Neal, Tyrone Johnson (Swizz Beatz), Ken Andres (Troy Sneed) and jazz extraordinaire Allyn Johnson, the new release has been catching the ear of the industry. Mercer will host a listening party on CJBRadio.com on Tuesday, Feb. 19.

"Rob Mercer is a tremendous gift in worship and music. His sound is pure and clean. You really need this project. His work is AMAZING!!!"- Stephen Hurd, Stellar Award winning worship leader & Gospel artist

"When I first heard the demo, I knew 'God Alone' would impact many people all around the world. In 'God Alone' is a gift that gently eases your mind away from the trials of life to the One who holds it in His hand. Rob Mercer is a phenomenal person with a sound that reaches the heart."- Antonio Neal, CCM recording artist, songwriter and producer

"I always knew when I first met Rob Mercer as an undergrad at Hampton University that he had a praise on the inside that would be for the nations. This project personifies that premonition without a doubt. Go forth, my little brother!"- Carlton Burgess, renowned Gospel singer & songwriter

"The Photo Album" was borne during a painful time in Rob's life. After a divorce, Rob poured himself into his music. "I was in my room one day talking to God - actually complaining to God - about my current situation and how things could have ended like that, when I heard God say, 'Instead of telling me your problems, talk about me. Talk about all that I have done for you,'" recounts Rob. He apologized to God and said, "God I don't ever want you to see that type of picture of me again." That one conversation was the impetus for the title of the CD, "The Photo Album."

Rob recently released the official video for the lead single, "God Alone", an acoustic guitar-driven tune. A soft and sweet song, "God Alone" puts the lover of God in a reflective place of worship. Filmed on the day that Rob's father passed, the video for "God Alone" is a reminder that our true strength comes only from God.

Rob will be holding an Online Listening Party on CJBRadio.com on Tuesday, February 19 at 4 p.m. EST. In addition to being interviewed, Mercer will be showcasing songs from the brand new CD. To listen, tune into www.CJBRadio.com. He will also be making an appearance on WATC-TV's Atlanta Live. The show features Mercer singing songs from the new album and will air on Monday, Feb. 25 at 7 p.m. EST. The program will stream live at www.watc.tv and airs on the NRB Network on DirecTV weekdays at 8 a.m. EST.

Known for his laid-back, but worshipful vibe, Mercer is a native of Jacksonville, Florida, where he became a regular opening act for many gospel greats including Ron Winans, The Winans, Richard Smallwood, James Cleveland, Edwin Hawkins and Yolanda Adams. In 2001, Rob sang at the historic Kennedy Center in Washington, DC, and the following year, he traveled to Johannesburg, South Africa where he conducted a Gospel music workshop. In 2006, he released a compilation CD, "Rob Mercer with Friends - A Brother's Worship" on his K.A.M.G. (Kingdom Access Music Group) label. In 2008 and 2009, Rob embarked upon his first tour -- a 12-week, 12-city tour across the US. Later, he was invited to London, England for performances at the Hob and the famed London Jazz Café.

Mercer is also featured on the national release of "DC Artists Together in Unity" with his songs, "Holy God" and "King of Kings" garnering praise for their insightful and intentional call to worship. In December 2012, Rob dropped with his debut solo CD release, "The Photo Album." His lead singles, "Amazingly," and "God Alone" have been embraced by Gospel music fans.

For more information on Rob Mercer, log on to www.RobMercerMusic.com.

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, DC Gospel Music Examiner

Sarah has been a fan of gospel music since childhood. Her interviews include Cece Winans, Fred Hammond, Richard Smallwood, Andraé Crouch, Martha Munizzi and Charles Butler. Sarah is CEO/Editor-in-Chief of PositivelyGospel.com where she provides the latest gospel music news and information. She is...

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