Even This

A return to form from a much-missed pioneer

     

Wayne Watson has always been one of the best songwriters and vocalists in CCM. His early work had a depth and scope that provided a nice counter-balance to the "Jesus is my boyfriend" type of Christian pop that flooded the marketplace in the 80s and 90s. Classics like "Friend of a Broken Heart" and "Touch of the Master's Hand" stood alongside lesser-known gems like "I Could Live Without You" and "A Season in Your Path," while "Would I Know You" asked a question that still resonates in our postmodern search for a true encounter with Christ. There's no denying he brought a dimension to CCM that was sadly lacking. Following a 5-year absence from the recording industry, Wayne Watson has re-hit the road running with this new release. God's faithfulness through trials and tribulations is a pervasive and powerful theme (echoing real-life hardship for Watson in recent years), and the quality of both music and lyrics is both a refreshing wind in today's CCM climate and a return to form for one of Christian music's best. Highlights include the title song and "Sing for Joy," both reflecting on the theme of faith in the midst of trials with honesty and depth (no easy answers here, thankfully--just like real life). No doubt the powerful "When You See Jesus" will generate a lot of attention for its ability to tug at the heartstrings, and the heartfelt praise of "For All You've Done" has real potential as a worship piece, reminding us that our primary task is to come and offer praise in response for what God has done. The rest of the album does not disappoint. We've missed you, Wayne--how wonderful to have you back, and in such great voice and form! Can't wait to see what God does with this new chapter in your ministry!