Two decades into his recording career, Vashawn Mitchell brings to his albums a skill set and artistic vision honed through his long tenure working in charismatic church settings, progressing from music minister, choir director, and composer to producing other urban contemporary gospel stars. Elements displays how he brings an almost Earth, Wind & Fire-style breadth to his music—R&B slow-jam interludes, adult-contemporary tranquility, taut funk fusion grooves, and explosive guitar and horn lines—while also being mindful of the ecclesial settings it’s meant for. The songs themselves are easily singable, and the gently swelling arrangements sweep listeners into a communal experience. Mitchell invokes earthly elements—“Fire Prayer,” “Set a Fire,” “Wind of God,” and the rain and flood imagery of “We Receive”—as metaphors for divine power and presence. As a singer, he’s warm and unshowy, his delivery modeling openness and intimacy toward God as he coaxes the mass choir with call-and-response.