Review

While the new Michael W. Smith release, "Healing Rain", was initially a little confusing to me, I've come to the conclusion that this album has two purposes- for the worship and CCM (Contemporary Christian music) audience, and the general public (as a cross-over/reaching out project).

Lets start off talking about the worship/CCM components of this new project. Healing Rain, Here I Am, and All I Want were my favorites. Martin Smith collaborates on all three of them... something I realized as I am writing this review. I don't know if that has something to do with my fondness for them or not, since I am definitely a Martin Smith fan. The refrains on Here I Am and Healing Rain were great! It drew me in each time I listened to it. I think Healing Rain will make some good waves in the ocean of worship & CCM (contemporary Christian music).

Now lets talk about the "cross-over" components of this album. Though there are some direct references to God on the album, the majority of it is indirect. As well, there are a number of themes addressed in a variety of musical styles. Hang On is a song that basically encourages us to "hang in there." It certainly has a catchy tune (kind of a '70s disco feel to me) and I found it fun to listen to. I think it would play really nice on most soft rock stations. We Can't Wait Any Longer deals with the subject of social justice. It pleads with us to get off "the fence" and do what we can to prevent needless suffering. It includes vocals from the Ugandan Children's Choir, perhaps a tie to the aids epidemic in Uganda that has had a devastating effect on its children. I certainly agree with the philosophy and message of the song. In Fly Me To The Moon, you can chase your dreams. Human Spark laments over man's inhumanity to man.

Michael also offers us his rendition of Paul Simon's Bridge Over Troubled Waters. Very nicely done! I graduated high school in 1972 so this 1969 copyright brought back teenage memories and, from my perspective, adds to the crossover feel of this album. Live Forever deals with the passing of a loved one and the intentions of seeing them again "on the other side." I don't offer these as criticisms at all just observations. The "pop" style should have widespread appeal and hopefully seed some "God ideas" in the listener.

This album will offer you a variety of musical style and subject matter. Michael's musical excellence is evident all through the project. He is a first rate musician and vocal artist. If you are a MWS fan, you'll certainly want to add this to your collection.

Review by Danny Mullins