Michael W. Smith – Wonder
Sep 6, 2010 CD Reviews
Michael W. Smith
“Wonder”
Reunion Records
12 tracks
Grade = A
With over 10 million albums sold and countless awards and accolades, Michael W. Smith is possibly one of the best-known (and well-loved) artists in the Christian music community. His career, which spans nearly three decades, has been filled with powerful, profound, life-changing music. His legacy continues with his most powerful release, “Wonder”.
It’s difficult to choose only a few songs from the album to review, seeing as how they are all so good! Mr. Smith brings a variety of styles to his new album, yet maintains the genuine, heartfelt lyrics we’ve all come to know and expect.
The album starts with the single “Save Me From Myself”, a powerful and upbeat introduction that sets the bar for the record. With the lyrics “You save me, save me from myself, there is no one else to set me free”, the song builds gradually into an strong, positive melody that is sure to be a favorite of old and new fans alike.
The upbeat feel soon fades into a beautiful ballad, full of emotion and sincerity. “Run To You” gives listeners a personal look into Michael’s life, as he surrenders control to his Lord and Savior. As the song builds, it really showcases Michael’s powerful vocals. This is definitely one of my favorite tracks on the album.
Two songs showing Smith’s love for his wife are “You Belong To Me” and “Forever Yours”. In “You Belong To Me”, Smith recalls his love-at-first-sight feelings he experienced when he first met his wife. “Forever Yours” recalls the life-long vow shared between the two on their wedding day.
“Wonder” demonstrates Mr. Smith’s love for his Heavenly Father, as he clues listeners in on his thoughts, ambitions, fears, and prayers. Old and new fans will find exactly what they’ve been waiting for, with his latest project.
- Tom F.
Tags: Michael W. Smith
Michael W. Smith – A New Hallelujah (DVD)
Jun 8, 2009 DVD Reviews
Michael W. Smith
A New Hallelujah: The Live Worship DVD
Reunion Records
Grade – B
The new DVD project is a follow-up to the successful CD release of A New Hallelujah, which is Michael W. Smith’s latest live recording. The DVD was recorded live at Lakewood Church, Houston, TX. The DVD contains four additional tracks that were not available on the CD, as well as some behind the scenes footage.
Watching the DVD I was really amazed at the extent of the production that went into the live show. The equipment, people and coordination that goes into a live concert for MWS is staggering. Given that, it was a tad bit disappointing that the behind-the-scenes extras were so short. The concert itself runs nearly 90 minutes while the extras are just over 10 minutes long. I would have liked to have seen more extras, making it more of an “experience” than a show.
The DVD is promoted as an “experience” rather than just another DVD. I would have agreed had the extras been a little more in-depth and personal. However, actually viewing the concert does give you a little more appreciation for the effort put into the production.
- Ken W.
Tags: Michael W. Smith
