Review

"WOW"! I thought about simply using "wow" as my one word review for this new release ("Arriving") from Chris Tomlin. Then I thought perhaps: "WOW! Buy this CD!" Then I'd have a 4 word review! It's been a long time since I have enjoyed an album as much as this one. I have literally listened to it at least a dozen times with no short term plans to interrupt that practice at the moment. Of all the projects I have reviewed for WorshipMusic.com, this is my all time favorite… hands down!

A couple of the songs are already getting air time… "Indescribable" and "Holy is the Lord." But that's only the beginning. This album has much more to offer to the listener. As a worship leader by vocation, I am always listening for those songs that I might be able to use for congregational worship. This project has 11 songs on it. On my first listening, I immediately had 6 of the 11 already pegged for our congregation. I don't remember the last time a single CD had that many songs that were congregational winners for me. It wasn't until I heard the 6th song that I had the thought: "Maybe I won't use that one."

The lyrics from this collection of songs is outstanding. Not only are they clearly discernible, they are intelligent, thoughtful and worshipful. Several of the songs spoke deeply to my heart and I felt my spirit responding to God through them. Musically, there is a nice variety of styles, from the powerful and majestic to the intimate and inviting… even a bit of black gospel in "On Our Side."

Worshippers… get this CD. Worship Leaders… get this CD. I believe it is going to be one of the best of 2004.

Review by Danny Mullins