Beautiful News (Compact Disc)

Great artists surface from the depths of great songs. Take Matt Redman, for instance. Great songs have been and continue to be the foundation of his career. With the release of Beautiful News, Redman’s sixth project, he seeks to continue in the tradition of crafting self-described “facedown” worship songs that serve to inspire, encourage and uplift, just as with past efforts such as “Heart of Worship,” “Better Is One Day” and “Blessed Be Your Name.”

Filled with fantastic new additions to the contemporary worship movement, the debut single, “You Never Let Go,” and the delightful “All Over the World” are shining examples of what can be found on this album—songs of truth about God’s faithfulness and grace, memorable choruses and swelling anthems of praise. At the core of Redman’s talent is his ability to pen heart-penetrating lyrics, as evidenced in “A Greater Song”: “Who could imagine a symphony grand enough to tell of Your glory?…I see the heavens proclaiming You day after day/And I know in my heart that there must be a way to sing a greater song.”

From the album’s first notes, it’s apparent why Redman is right at home with the sixsteps family. His songs often evoke the Brit-rock sounds of Delirious one minute and the worshipful intonations of fellow labelmates Chris Tomlin and Charlie Hall the next. His Brit roots soar on the U2-esque “Take It to the Streets,” with background vocals courtesy of Delirious’ Martin Smith and Josiah Bell. And, just when you think you’ve figured out his artistic niche, a unique intro to “Fearfully and Wonderfully Made” features the heartbeat of a 16-week-old baby in the womb making the words richer as Redman gently sings, “So fearfully and wonderfully made/How could they say there is no God?” The song’s predecessor, “Thank You for Healing Me,” is an immediate highlight with its pleasant mid-tempo beat and stirring words of gratitude.

Finally, on an album full of worshipful moments, the album closer, “If You Know,” serves as one of the most reverent tracks thanks to simple, poignant lyrics. However, the reverence is cut short with a reprise of the title track. Although innovative in its sound, it would have been better left untouched, leaving listeners with the essence of “if you know you’re loved by the King, then live for Him.”

LINDSAY WILLIAMS

Review Provided by CCMmagazine.com