October 6, 2009
Ardent/INO Records; $13.98
Todd Agnew is probably best known for "Grace Like Rain"—his rendition of "Amazing Grace." Now on his fifth studio album, Agnew opens with the pop charm of first single, "Joy Unspeakable," and then leads immediately into the open, questioning second track, "Written on the Wall." The tune chugs along like a Casting Crowns song, taking the pop cheeriness into the realm of contemporary rock.
These opening cuts are musically different from the remainder of the album, but set the thematic tone for all that is to come. Listening through this CD is a reminder of the desperate father's cry in Mark 9:24: " 'Lord, I believe; help my unbelief!' " (NKJV). Agnew wrestles openly with the same things many of us quietly struggle through: Why doesn't God light up another burning bush, part another sea, and prove Himself dramatically, as He has done before? Does God really want to work through me? But those questions seem to drive the artist onward to expressions of faith—songs about God's goodness and Jesus' Lordship. It's a great example of the positive side of doubt and questioning: We press on through our struggles to the things we know are true, to the One who is Truth.
These songs are a celebration of Jesus and the love of God that we all desperately need. Musically, the remaining 10 tracks cover a full range of American roots music, throwing in some country twang, blues stomp in "Tell Me the Story," which features some powerful guitar work, and a helping of gospel in "Higher Ground."
Standout moments include Todd's rendition of the hymn "I Need No Other" and the closing powerful statement of the chorus "Jesus, the Hope of Glory." Production on this release is solid, with great musicianship that shines without domineering. We may see "Gloria" and "I Need No Other" springing up in a congregational setting, but expect this album to spin mostly during times of reflection and devotion.
Agnew has put out a diverse collection of musical expression, but one that holds to a common thread we all need to hear—Jesus is all we need!
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Reviewed by: Jonathan Griffiths, assistant pastor at Cornerstone Worship Center, a Foursquare church in Nampa, Idaho
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