Audrey Assad – Heart
Feb 15, 2012 CD Reviews
Posted by
wiegmake
Audrey Assad
Heart
Grade – A+
As Audrey Assad’s gentle voice flowed through the final notes of her critically-acclaimed debut album “The House You’re Building”, I was speechless. Audrey’s first project was a strong, solid album spun with eloquent, thought-provoking melodies. Her hauntingly beautiful closer, “Show Me” only left listeners wanting more. I was overjoyed to discover that Audrey’s second offering “Heart” expanded on the poetry and prose she graced listeners with in her first effort.
Audrey’s piano talents shine through each track as she trades the typical “CCM” sound in for a simple, stripped-down style. This style works in her favor as each song brings something new to the table. From a lyrical standpoint, Audrey’s prayerful songs tend to be written “to God”, as opposed to being “about God”. This unique writing style really draws listeners into the songs and transforms them into worshipful experiences.
“Even The Winter” is an infectious, upbeat track of hope. Audrey compares life’s hardships to seasons, specifically winter with (what if the days grow short and lose their light? / What if the coals burn black and the embers die?) The chorus resounds with the hopeful lines (Even the winter won’t last forever / we’ll see the morning; we’ll feel the sun. We’ll wake up in April – ready and able).
“Sparrow”, “Heart”’s first single, served as a harbinger for greater things to come. (I sing because I’m happy / I sing because I’m free! His eye is on the sparrow / And I know He’s watching me.) Audrey masterfully retooled the timeless hymn’s melody and turned it into one of the album’s highlights.
In “Breaking You” and “O My Soul”, Audrey’s gentle voice soars over a deep, mournful piano backdrop. “Slow” features some of the most profound lyrics on the album – pure poetry. (I know faith is not a fire as much as it’s a glow / a steady, humble lamplight in the window. And it’s not too much. It’s just enough to give me hope / Love moves slow.) Once more, Audrey’s soft voice flutters around the deep accompaniment – it’s a beautiful contrast.
“Heart” is an outstanding release from a truly gifted musician. Audrey has a lovely voice and a profound, poetic writing style. “Heart” is a brilliant album and the perfect followup to Audrey’s critically-acclaimed debut. She’s grown as a musician and she’s grown in her faith. Her conversational songs are guaranteed to tug at the heart strings of listeners both great and small. I’m excited to see what God has in store for Audrey, and I’m thankful she’s chosen to share her gifts and talents with the world.
Tom F.
