CD REVIEW: JUST SING- AMBER NELON THOMPSON
SOUTHERN GOSPEL SPOTLIGHT PRESENTS
CD REVIEW
JUST SING- AMBER NELON THOMPSON
LABEL: DAYWIND
RELEASE DATE: JULY 31, 2015
PRODUCER: JASON CLARK
AVAILABLE ON ITUNES, AMAZON, etc.
REVIE COPY PROVIDED
SONG LIST:
Sing-A-Long
He’s Making Me
Another Time, Another Place
Be Thou My Vision
What Do You Say?
Without Your Love
Grateful
God is Always Good
Give It To Jesus
Falling
THOUGHTS:
Following her hit EP Without Your Love, one of Southern Gospel Music’s brightest young vocalists, Amber Nelon Thompson has released her debut solo album Just Sing. Thompson’s soaring soprano shines on this collection of encouraging songs. Not only does her voice shine on this record, her ability to deliver a lyric with heart and emotion is showcased as well. The record begins with the mid-tempo country groove “Sing-A-Long” which encourages listeners to sing in every season for God is faithful. This fun sing-a-long features a special appearance by Gospel legend Bill Gaither, and background vocals from the Nelons. “He’s Making Me” is a driving number that has a modern CCM feel to it. This well written song about being molded by God in His image fits Amber’s powerful voice well. Next, Amber is joined by legendary Southern Gospel/CCM vocalist Michael English on a prolific song previously recorded by the great Sandi Patty and Wayne Watson called “Another Time, Another Place.” This beautiful orchestral ballad and current radio single reminds listeners to look toward Heaven. One line absolutely struck a chord with me: “All my hopes and dreams will be captured with one look at Jesus’ face.” How incredible will that day be?!!! Amen! In my humble opinion, Amber Nelon Thompson and Michael English are two of the greatest vocalists in Gospel Music. They blend together incredibly and give amazing performances. Next, the rest of the Nelons join Amber on a tender rendition of the hymn “Be Thou My Vision” showcasing the beautiful and tight family harmony of the group. A standout track and one that was included on the EP the poignant and thoughtful “What Do You Say?” addresses the need for us to stand by people in need. We need to show the world God’s love: a love that conquers all fear, drives away the shadows, and has power over death. Another standout track is, also from the EP, “Without Your Love” a piano ballad which features Joseph Habedank and says “Don’t let me breathe another breath, take another step without your love.” This powerful lyric is a declaration of love and praise to the Father who without His love we would be nothing! Amber taps into her roots with the country style song of thankfulness “Grateful.” God has been faithful and has given us many blessings we should not take for granted! The next song is the poignant piano ballad “God Is Always Good” which, as the title suggests, reminds us that despite what the world might say, God is always good and will forever be. The powerful anthem “Give It To Jesus” says, “give it to Jesus, call on His name, it’s time to lay down your struggles, He’s just a prayer away.” Amber’s performance on this song is absolutely stellar! She demonstrates amazing vocal control and power and delivers the lyric with depth of heart and emotion. This incredible collection of songs closes with another track from the EP called “Falling.” This beautiful ballad opens with the emotive sounds of violins and the piano. The well crafted lyric compares our view of the world to God’s. We see our brokenness and uncertainty, but He sees His will being done. He knows the unknown, and views the universe from His throne. His view is so much clearer than ours. It may seem like our lives are falling apart, but He sees life falling into place. He is working all things for our good. This is definitely one of my favorite songs on this album and a great closing track to a stellar collection of songs.
FINAL THOUGHTS:
I personally enjoy listening to artists that not only have a technically solid voice, but truly believe in what the lyric they sing. There have been many great “communicators” in the field of Southern Gospel Music and I would gladly place Amber Nelon Thompson on that lists!! This is an exceptional debut record that truly showcases her incredible God given talent. This album is an encouragement to those who may feel broken or that their lives are falling apart. God is faithful and His amazing Love can change your life.
This is a MUST BUY for everyone whether you are a fan of Southern Gospel Music or not!
4.5 of 5 stars!!
For more information on Amber and the Nelons, see www.kellynelon.com .