Album Review: Dunsin Oyekan’s ‘The Birth of Revival’ A Deep Dive into the Sound that Births Revival

Multiple-award-winning gospel artist, music producer, and songwriter, Dunsin Oyekan, recently released his highly anticipated studio album, ‘The Birth of Revival.’ With a career spanning more than a decade, Dunsin Oyekan has established himself as one of the most influential voices in contemporary gospel music. Known for his powerful vocals and thought-provoking lyrics, Dunsin’s music has resonated with audiences around the world.

 

He began his music career in 2011 and has since released several albums including “The Gospel of the Kingdom” (2021), “The Kingdom Now” (2019), and “The Glory Experience” (2022). The Eagle as he is commonly called is a worship leader who has been involved in several gospel music events across Nigeria. Dunsin’s music is known for its powerful and anointed messages which are aimed at drawing people closer to God and encouraging them in their walk with Christ.

 

‘The Birth of Revival’ is a14 tracks album, including the hit single, “Maranatha” and a guest appearance from renowned gospel music minister and vocal queen, Mercy Chinwo. The album projects themes of revival, victory, and the power of fellowship. With a mix of upbeat tracks and ballads, ‘The Birth of Revival’ is sure to be a hit for both new and long-time fans of gospel music.”

Album Review: Dunsin Oyekan’s ‘The Birth of Revival’ A Deep Dive into the Sound that Births Revival

Let’s get into the core of this piece which is to analyze this album one single after another;

 

Maranatha

To understand this sound, first, we need to dissect the word ‘Maranatha’. It’s a Latin that means ‘Come, Lord.’ Coincidence that this is the first song on the project? Certainly not. I mean, what’s a better way to start the birth of a revival than inviting the root of the revival Himself (The Lord)

 

Speaking of the song, He said, “The whole world is full of anticipation. Anticipation of a Promise made, A Promise made by our King and our Lord, Our Lord is coming, just like He said He would”

 

“They have seen Your procession, O God, The procession of my God, my King, into the sanctuary.” Psalms 68:24 NKJV, “He who testifies to these things says, Surely I am coming quickly. Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus!” Revelation 22:20 NKJV

 

Maranatha – Come, O Lord!  This sound speaks for itself. The first song is a solemn cry for God to invade our space and take it over.

 

Let Your Sound

This is album was arranged deliberately and intentionally. After The Lord invades our space, then comes a demand for His presence through worship and praise. The second sound on the album speaks of building an altar of praise to invite the Sound of God in us (God’s Temple) for angelic manifestations.

 

When I See You

This song expresses the longing and desire to see the Face of Jesus. The Lyrics convey a message of deep longing for a personal encounter with Jesus, a believer’s desire to not only see Jesus but deeper intimacy with Him.

 

It goes further about the believer’s Joy as a result of such an encounter with Jesus, with lines like “When I see my lover, I will dance to Him” and “I’ll be praising, I’ll be singing, I’ll be dancing, When I see You” listeners can have a mental picture of the believer’s Joy seeing Jesus.

 

Yahweh Be Praised

This particular song of worship expresses gratitude and praise to God for all He has done, declaring that He is all that matters.

With lyrics speaking of the believer’s faith and trust in God, with lines like “I lift my hands to You my God, Saying to You, You are all that matters”. And because God is all that matters I need to show the world with the lifting of my hands first as a sign of surrender and then Posture of my praise.

 

Stand in the Gap

The acoustic guitar at the start of this particular tune won me over, but beyond the instrument is a song calling on believers to intercede on behalf of others, and to raise a sound of adoration.

The song speaks to being intercessors standing in the gap for generations to declare that we acknowledge Jesus as the only way.

 

Who is on the Lord’s Side (ft. Mercy Chinwo)

No doubt when Mercy Chinwo is involved, it is usually on another level and this particular sound is not an exception. ‘Who is on the Lord’s Side’ is a song that proclaims our commitment to stand with God and be on His side.

Writing about the sing, Dunsin Oyekan notes,

“This is a loud declaration, This is a cry of victory, This is a firm stance in the spirit, We are staking our claim, There is no other side to be on, The Lord’s side is where we are firmly at

The winning side!

When you are on the battlefield, let Judah go up first, the side of praise, that’s the Lord’s side.

 

“And the children of Israel arose, and went up to the house of God, and asked counsel of God, and said, Which of us shall go up first to the battle against the children of Benjamin? And the LORD said Judah, shall go up first.” (Judges 20:18 KJV)

 

“Then Moses stood in the gate of the camp, and said, Who is on the LORD’s side? let him come unto me. And all the sons of Levi gathered themselves together unto him.” (Exodus 32:26 KJV)

As we raise our praise……the enemies will bow!”

 

Holy is the Lord

A sound that elucidates the nature of God is important when birthing revival. “Holy is the Lord” is that sound that expresses the core of who God is and his true nature. The lyrics speak to the fact that God is holy and worthy of all praise and worship.

 

Crown Of Souls

“Crown of Souls” is a solemn and divine gospel song that encourages devotion and worship of God, it expresses the believer’s faith in God and devotion to Him. The lyrics emphasize the importance of worshipping God and surrendering control to him. The message is one of devotion and total surrender to God.

The song’s simple melody, solemn rhythm, and positive lyrics contribute to its overall accessibility and make it an effective tool for worship.

 

The Great Revivalist

This particular record emphasizes the power of the Holy Spirit and His role in the revival quest. Minister Dunsin acknowledges that revival can only come from God, and expresses a desire to sojourn alongside the Holy Spirit on the quest for Revival.

 

Oh to Love You (Conversation with the Father)

Like the sub-title suggest, ‘Oh to Love You’ is a song that narrates the conversation between a believer (in this case a revivalist) with the Father (God). She/he goes to the Father seeking more power and fire but meets an unexpected response, rather than the desired power she/he is told to pursue Love. The lyrics focus on themes of surrender, devotion, and a deep love for God.

 

 

I Will Stay

“But those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength. They shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.” (Isaiah 40:31 NKJV) is one scripture that comes to mind when you listen to this song.

 

“I Will Stay” by Dunsin Oyekan is a tune that expresses confidence in the power of God. It focuses on the idea of putting one’s trust in the Lord. It is a declaration of unwavering belief in God and our commitment to waiting on Him.

 

Because He Is, I Am

Like the song starts ‘Are you ready!’ for what’s in this song. Because He Is, I Am” by Dunsin Oyekan is a song that celebrates the identity and empowerment of a believer in Jesus Christ. The lyrics focus on the idea that our identity is rooted in who Jesus is and what He has done for us. Dunsin rejoices in our confidence and assurance in who we are in Christ, and our ability to overcome any obstacle through His strength. The melody is upbeat, heavy, and joyful, encouraging listeners to embrace their identity in Christ and to live confidently in His love and power.

 

Finger of God

Finger of God highlights the power and majesty of God. The song focuses on the concept of God’s sovereignty and the idea that everything in the world is under his control.

While encouraging listeners over the world, Dunsin notes, “There are things that happen in our lives that are not our doing. I believe that this resonates with many people; it’s the story of your life!

 

Paul said, “I am what I am by the Grace of God”. When people who don’t believe in our God nor believe that God exists come to the irrefutable conclusion that “this is beyond the ordinary”, then it can only be by “THE FINGER OF GOD”

This is my story! And if this is also your story then this ANTHEM is for you!”

 

Benediction

When all, is said and done come the “Benediction”, Imagine our usual benediction in the church in songs laced with powerful verses, yes! That’s what Minister Dunsin Oyekan brings to reality in this sound.”Benediction” is a song of encouragement and hope, reminding listeners of the power of God’s presence in their lives.”

 

Beyond the powerful lyrics in this project is a relatively finessed harmony that creates a positive and uplifting sound. The rhythm is fast-paced, mild, mid-tempo, and upbeat, with a driving beat and syncopated rhythm that contributes to the project’s energetic feel with verses and choruses that contribute to the song’s “singability” and memorability.

 

Worthy of note is the instrumentation in “The Great Revivalist.” Professionally executed and well arranged, supporting the message of the song.

 

As always Minister Dunsin Oyekan has just released a standard and powerful project and we hope that this project brings you comfort, hope, and inspiration, reminding you of the love and grace of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

 

STREAM ALBUM 

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One comment

  1. The review is spot on, nothing missing out