Style: Worshipful pop anthems; compare to Jeremy Camp, Brandon Heath, Matthew West
Top tracks: “Could You Ever Look at Me,” “Ocean,” “Here Goes”
Norman won a 2010 Dove Award for Best Inspirational Song (“The Only Hope”), and his 11th album sounds like he’s aiming for the same target. Ocean is primarily a collection of radio anthems and worship ballads, and tracks such as “Everything I’d Hope You’d Be” and “God of My Everything” should find their way into heavy rotation and worship services. Hooks are soaring, and Norman’s skillful lyrics strike a strong balance between accessibility and authenticity. Love song “Could You Ever …” particularly shines. However, the glossy production grows predictable, and as a whole, the project suffers from repetitive formula much like, well, radio playlists.
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