John Waller [While I'm Waiting]
Posted March 24, 2009
By christianmusicreview,
[MAIN REVIEW]
John Waller is a singer/songwriter/worship leader who originally gained national attention fronting According to John. After the band ended, John and his family moved to Denver, Colorado, and focused on writing songs for his church congregation. The people at SouthLink Church loved John’s music so much, they raised the money to finance his record. He eventually signed to Beach Street Records after Mark Miller—label owner and Sawyer Brown front man—was captured by John’s powerful songs. Waller's distinctive sound reflects the praise-oriented heart of a humble, devoted servant. As one who has previously struggled with depression, Waller conveys his message with refreshing authenticity and unabashed openness.
Discussing his smash hit single "While I'm Waiting," featured in the hit movie “Fireproof”: "I'm sure most people can relate to this song, but the important thing to remember while we're waiting on God, is to not just wait, but to actively wait. Serve, worship and be faithful with what you have, where you are, even while you wait."
If you like the song “While I’m Waiting”, then you’re in for a real treat with the entire album including the original and Fireproof Remix of the title song, originally released on “The Blessing”. Musically, I feel that the album is a slight step up, in particular with the songs “Hands Of The Healer”, “Cling To The Call”, “Quest”, “House Of God” and “Our God Reigns Here”, which are my other favorite songs on the album in addition to the title song, which is an amazing song. In particular I was struck by the song “Cling To The Call” which was one of the songs considered for the album title. The song continues the theme of “waiting” in that John waited 17 years to become a music artist and has held strong to that calling. John’s songs tend to be personal and based on real-life situations. “Quest” is a fun story-song that even references Don Quixote. The second half of the album builds to another very memorable song “Our God Reigns Here” which will have you singing along in praise to our Savior!
The message of the album is extremely biblical and uplifting and worthy of the highest message rating of any album I’ve heard this year. Almost every song has bible verses listed in the liner notes to go with the songs. For example, “Faith Is Living” is based on Hebrews 11:1: “Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.” That type of encouragement is throughout the album, especially in songs like “House Of God” and the worshipful closing song “Perfect Peace”.
CLOSING THOUGHTS
This is a great adult contemporary worship album. If you like Steven Curtis Chapman, Casting Crowns, Bebo Norman and MercyMe, then you should really enjoy John Waller.
Rating: 9.6 out of 10 (96%, A)
Review written by: Kevin Davis | Review can also be found here.
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