It’s the best of the genre I’ve ever heard.
There
are probably two reasons for this: One, Glen Campbell is an
acclaimed and accomplished secular singer-songwriter who
happens to be a Christian, rather than being specifically a
“Christian artist.” And two – it’s Glen Campbell,
after all.
The
very melodic and tuneful songs have a glossy sheen to them,
and Campbell’s alternately humble and soaring voice exudes
earnest sincerity and spiritual longing.
The
three standout tracks on the album for me are the poignant
take on the classic religious anthem “Amazing Grace”
(the absolute best version I’ve heard, especially with
Campbell’s bagpipe refrains), the power pop ballad “The
Greatest Gift of All,” and the haunting elegy “I Will
Arise” (with background vocal ambiance provided by The
Boys Choir of Harlem). These are three of the most affecting
songs I have ever heard in any genre.
Although
this is not a Christmas-themed record (Campbell has at least
one proper Christmas album and probably several more), it
sounds right at home with the season, especially the three
aforementioned tunes.
No
matter what your faith is, or even if you don’t subscribe
to one, I can’t imagine anyone not being moved by the
sentiments on this very personal, soul-searching, and
ultimately life-affirming musical journey.
--Raj
Manoharan
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