The Story of Love (CD)

PREMIUM POP FROM A PIONEERING VETERAN

This year Kathy Troccoli celebrates her 25th anniversary as a recording artist. Looking at the lovely, exuberant face on the cover of this CD, that just doesn’t seem possible. But with such a wealth of experience comes a deeper level of artistry, a much more knowing way with a great lyric and a level of emotional depth that a youngster just can’t muster. Troccoli brings her years of experience to this fine collection of songs, and she’s never sounded better.

There’s something about her rich, warm voice that makes each of these songs sound like a treasured old friend. And the opening cut is just that. Troccoli delivers a charming rendition of the timeless Dorothy Fields/Jerome Kern standard “Pick Yourself Up.” She also serves up the Keith Green classic “Make My Life A Prayer to You.” “I COR 13” is a jazzy, breezy rendition of the oft-quoted scripture verse that is absolutely delightful. “Friend for Life,” penned by Kathy, Billy Sprague and Jeff Franzel, is a gorgeous ballad that celebrates the bonds of friendship. “The Glory of Love” is another great pop standard that showcases the warmth and playfulness in Troccoli’s voice. Though each song is a winner, the most compelling track is the eloquent, understated ballad “Talk to Jesus.” Written by Troccoli, Franzel and Tom Kimmel, it has a lyric that cuts right to the heart, and Troccoli’s performance is soul-stirring.

She may have been recording for 25 years, but as this wonderful collection demonstrates, Kathy Troccoli shows no sign of resting on her laurels. She continues to make some of the most innovative and engaging music of her distinguished career.

DEBORAH EVANS PRICE

Review Provided by CCMmagazine.com