John Michael Talbot - Signatures

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Music reviews of Signatures

Music Review: 25 Years of Praise, Blessings Celebrated on "Signatures"
Rating: 4 Stars

Talbot has for more than 25 years been a leading Catholic Christian singer/songwriter, author, fundraiser, lay preacher and monastic leader. He celebrates his blessings and success this year with an updated biography and this exceptional CD, both sharing the name "Signatures."

"Signatures" features Talbot concert favorites, sweetened and strengthened through orchestration (from the London Philarmonia, conducted by veteran Phil Perkins) and choral background (from the St. Michael Singers). They add sweep and grandeur to the choruses of "Come Worship the Lord," "Only in God," and "The Hiding Place," which features a superb staccaco string arrangement. They give the CD a gently rolling, classical feeling without drowning Talbot's voice or superb acoustic guitar playing. This is especially true on the beloved "Holy Is His Name," Talbot's melody of Mary's Magnificat with its superb introductory guitar/woodwind interplay.

Of the CD opener, "Lilies of the Field," Talbot writes in his detailed liner notes, "...it has a most charming way of touching the listener with the beautiful aspect of gospel simplicity...when sung it almost irresistibly beckons." Yet the same is true of his other "Jesus songs" here; "I Am The Bread of Life" is slowly, emotionally moving and reassuring, especially in a year dominated by "The Passion of the Christ."

After 15 songs lasting more than an hour, you're left with a suite of flowing, contemplative music building a mood and message of God's steadfastness, Jesus' peace and rest amidst solitude and silence. (During the concert, Talbot reminded his audience to listen for silence within and between the music and find Jesus there as well.) It also speaks of our need for faith and to surrender to His will ("God Alone Is Enough," "I Surrender")

Even Talbot's detractors acknowledge his musicianship and the souls he and his music helped win for Christ. (Yours truly met John Michael after the concert with my closest, dearest friend, who introduced his music to me. I found him a kind, committed, unpretentious artist and man.) It's a legacy well worth signing off on, and this CD is an outstanding introduction or addition to any praise music collection.

Description of Signatures

Christian & Gospel CDs

• Music > Styles
• Pop
• Rock