A Lyrical Light In The Darkness
Posted September 05, 2016
By CaitlinLassiter_NRT, Staff Reviewer
Selah founding member and vocalist Todd Smith has been making music that points listeners to Jesus since 1999. With over 4 million albums and singles sold, 11 number one records and 13 Dove Awards, the successful trio has become quite the mainstay in Christian music.
Todd released his first project apart from the group, Alive, in 2004. Now over a decade later, he's back at it with his sophomore solo release There's A Light. Presenting a batch of 11 brand new songs, the album takes listeners on a captivating and encouraging musical journey led by Todd's strong and emotional vocal. Stylistically in the same vein as what fans have come to know from Selah's music while still different in the sense that we get to hear a bit more of a pop sound than is found in his previous work, There's A Light is a personally deep offering from the heart of an artist passionate about leading people to the only true Light in our darkness.
With a slight twinge of country style, the acoustic-driven title track opens the album with lyrics of faith: "There's a light at the end of the troubles / there is hope for those who believe / there is peace that flows like a river / Jesus Christ has set us free." Introducing catchy upbeat pop elements, "Jesus Is" is a bold anthem written during Todd's dad's battle with Leukemia that shines as the highlight track on this record. Beginning in a modern hymn fashion before the chorus kicks in, "I Sing The Mighty Power Of Jesus" is another powerful cut.
Softer "Be Still" is a calming track that encourages listeners to slow down and rest in Christ alone while "Right Where I Belong," a mellow worship duet with the soulful and sweet voice of Ellie Holcomb, features beautiful harmonies and speaks of the home we find in Christ. Telling the moving story of a Russian pastor who was imprisoned for 17 years, "Dimitri's Song (Jesus Is Alive)" is a captivating lyrical moment on the album. "What Are We Living For" poses a series of powerful question to listeners, challenging them to take action and rise up to fight against the darkness, much like vulnerable "Revive Us" asks God to pour out His power on us again. "Forgive us for being okay with where our hearts have been," the verse pleads.
Piano-led "We Will Rise" acts as a mid-tempo ballad that reminds those who hear it of the truth that because Christ lives on the inside of us, we can rise above any hardship that comes against us. Todd's powerful challenge to dads everywhere, "Calling All Fathers," ends the album with a call to action for fathers to wake up and be the men of God they were created to be.
The Bottom Line: There's A Light is a definite success for Todd Smith, combining his steady vocals with powerful pop gems and calm worship ballads. Passionate melodies mix with lyrics of bold faith to create anthems for listeners to sing along with in times of struggle. Both sonically and lyrically, Todd's sophomore album is absolutely a light in the darkness and will without a doubt encourage anyone who hears it.
Song To Download Now:
"Jesus Is" (Get it on iTunes here.)
View All Music And Book Reviews By CaitlinLassiter_NRT | View CaitlinLassiter_NRT's Profile
|
