Album Review: Grace

The rich velvety vocals of Moses Mackay are well known as a member of New Zealand’s highest selling classical trio Sol3 Mio. Eventually branching out to create his original debut album Grace, Mackay delivers ten superb soulful tracks with influences by classical, orchestral and cinematic genres. Born and raised in New Zealand, Moses is a multi-instrumentalist with an ear for harmony and composition, he embarked on what he calls his greatest creation yet, the Grace album in 2022.

The album is a dedication to his Grandmother infusing elements of the classical style in which we are familiar with a strong soul influence that melds beautifully to create a dramatic soundscape abundant in layered harmony with an orchestral backdrop.

Although classically influenced, Mackay has combined soul with show tunes and even a touch of ragtime signalling the beginning of a new chapter in his musical career. Diverting away from his operatic style in Sol3 Mio yet still instantly recognisable as one of the most powerful vocalists in Aotearoa this is music which delivered great joy and touched me deeply.

Following on from his single Some Sorta Sensation, Grace highlights Mackay’s incredible vocal skills along the lines of Michael Bublé, Marvin Gaye, and Josh Groban. Grace has a classical tone and a cinematic vibe but is full of soul and beautifully composed.

From the first track Avon there is an immediate sense that this will be an exceptional album. Stirring orchestral arrangements accompany his flawless vocals.

Personal standout tracks are Some Sorta Sensation, bringing to mind early Marvin Gaye and Maurice The Cleaner which has a ragtime feel to it and certainly would not be out of place in a razzle dazzle stage production.

Farewell Of an Irishman yet again shows his incredible songwriting talent. This is an emotional stirring track with a Celtic tone.

The title single Grace is packed full of emotion exquisitely delivered accompanied by a dramatic score. The song undulates from a mellow introduction to an impassioned ending.

The final track Made My Bed (For You Ma) is a hauntingly magnificent track with a choral backdrop. This is elegantly delivered and full of emotion.

Recorded in LA at Furaha Studios (studio to Bruno Mars and Lady Gaga), Moses called in musicians such as Pianist Damiano della Torre who has worked with Tom Jones, Pavarotti and Terence Trent D’aby. With the addition of other world class musicians from around the world. The Grace album is mixed by Peter Schwier and co-produced by Nick Patrick (Andrea Bocelli, Aretha Franklin, Elvis Presley remastered).

Grace is an album in which you sit and appreciate the beauty which unfolds.