SPOTLIGHT CD REVIEW: THE ONLY ONE- DOUG ANDERSON
SOUTHERN GOSPEL SPOTLIGHT PRESENTS
SPOTLIGHT CD REVIEW:
THE ONLY ONE
DOUG ANDERSON
LABEL: STOWTOWN RECORDS
RELEASE DATE: MAY 13, 2016 (Today, available on Amazon, Doug Anderson’s website, ITunes etc.)
SONG LIST:
The Only One
Little White Church House
Jesus Saved Me (When I Could Not Save Myself)
Tell Me That’s Not God
Thirsty World
God Speed The Day
Only Room For Love
Enough LoveTo Go Around
I Don’t Know How He Did It
Remember That He Loves You
Thorns
Don’t Miss The Sunset
*REVIEW COPY PROVIDED*
THOUGHTS:
Doug Anderson, former EHSS baritone, is back again with another solo project (his third on Ernie Haase and Wayne Haun’s StowTown Records). Anderson delivers another record infused with that down home country style and heart that we have come to expect. This recording is a collection of songs that truly tell a story: the story of Jesus and how He changes our everyday lives. It very much deals with faith based heritage, trusting God in the midst of suffering, and celebrating the little things that bring you joy. These powerful songs are performed with heart and gravitas the only way Doug Anderson can deliver them. The title track “The Only One,” reminds us of the joy that waits for us in Heaven. God is the only one that you will ever need. Keep the faith! No matter what, God is with you always. The country stylings of “Little White Church House,” tells the story of the day the Lord saved a soul. Anderson can sure tell a story in a quick song. A choir joins Anderson on the power ballad “Jesus Saved Me (When He Could Not Save Myself),” adding a traditional Gospel feel to it. This song of praise tells of saving power of Christ. He loves us more than we will ever know. His grace is amazing!! You can never stray too far from God!! Anderson ventures into CCM territory with the up-tempo story song “Tell Me That’s Not God.” This fun track gives examples of kindness that is evidence of God’s love in this world. One of the best tracks on this album is the tender “Thirsty World.” This song invites God to send His love down like water to this thirsty world. Jason Blaine and Steve Bogard's lyric is a brilliant vehicle for Anderson’s warm, tender baritone. “God Speed The Day,” continues this theme of brokenness and deliverance. I believe that God is moving in this place. He is coming again to take us Home. “Only Room For Love” and “Enough Love To Go Around” are in the same vein of “Tell Me That’s Not God.” These enjoyable tracks remind us of God’s love for us and our duty to spread His love to all. There is only room for love, no room for fear!! There is enough love to go around the world! “I Don’t Know How He Did It,” is a groovy traditional Gospel style track that is a simple song of thanks to God for His sacrifice. I don’t know how He did it, but I’m glad He did! Anderson continues this theme with the mid-tempo track “Remember That He Loves You.” His promises are true! He loves you and will never forsake you. Even in your darkest times, He is still with you. My favorite song on the record is the incredibly poignant and relevant “Thorns.” This powerful ballad reflects on the hardships of life and reminds us that hope can be found even in the hardest of times. I’m grateful for the faith you have formed with the hardships of my life. As many times I’ve thanked you for the roses (good times), “today I’m saying thank you for the thorns.” What an incredible lyric!! The album closes with another tear jerker of a song called “Don’t Miss The Sunset,” which is clearly a song for his family. Anderson reminds his kids in this beautiful lyric to take time to live very moment with no regrets. Don’t miss the sunset. “Don’t get to busy chasing your dreams that you lose the value of everyday things.” This is not only a message to his kids, but for everyone listening. “We need to breathe it all in before it’s too late.” Live every moment like it’s your last!! Bring honor and glory to God in every little thing. Amen!
FINAL THOUGHTS:
THIS RECORD IS SIMPLY BRILLIANT!! I’M ALWAYS BLOWN AWAY WITH ANDERSON’S ABILITY TO DELIVER A LYRIC AND THIS ALBUM IS FULL OF INCREDIBLE SONGS. YOU WILL NOT REGRET GETTING THIS CD IN THE SLIGHTEST. GO GET THIS CD ASAP!! 5 OUT OF 5 STARS
FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO PURCHASE, www.dougandersonmusic.com