|
Style: Syncopated coffeehouse pop, compare to Brandon Heath, Matthew West
Top tracks: "Better Way," "Control," "Eyes Forward"
Shawn McDonald penned his fourth album through the heartbreak of divorce, so themes of brokenness and longing aren't surprising. What is surprising is that the singer-songwriter noted for honesty stumbles so often into cliché. "Don't give up. Hold on for one more day," may be a helpful mantra for facing tough times, but it's an awfully generic chorus. "Something Real" digs a little deeper. The opener "Better Way" tackles wants versus needs with a soulful touch of slide guitar, and guest-rapped lyrics by Josh Garrels spark "Control." Unfortunately, a closer look behind Closer's soundtrack-ready pop production reveals more broad vagary than depth.
Copyright © 2011 Christianity Today. Click for reprint information.
Annual & Monthly subscriptions available.
- Print & Digital Issues of CT magazine
- Complete access to every article on ChristianityToday.com
- Unlimited access to 65+ years of CT’s online archives
- Member-only special issues
- Learn more
Read These Next
- TrendingAmerican Christians Should Stand with Israel under AttackWhile we pray for peace, we need moral clarity about this war.
- From the MagazineWhat Kind of Man Is This?We’ve got little information on Jesus’ appearance and personality. But that’s the way God designed it.españolFrançais
- Editor's PickChristian Athletes Know How to Build Platforms for Jesus. Can They Brand Themselves?NIL deals in college athletics present new challenges—and opportunities—for colleges and students.