Declaration
Steven Curtis Chapman
Sparrow Records

The well-known CCM artist, Steven Curtis Chapman, has had a very successful career. Not only is he an accomplished songwriter, he has also sold more than seven million albums, earned 44 Dove Awards, and has won four Grammy Awards for the Best Pop/Contemporary Gospel Album. You might think this popular artist would be ready for a break, but his success continues with the release of his twelfth album, "Declaration".

Rather than randomly selecting songs for this project Chapman chose songs that have a significance in life. Songs of happiness and sorrow, songs of questions and answers. Chapman wanted songs that would make a specific statement, or "declaration." In hopes that the listener will gain a clearer picture of Christ.

Musically "Declaration" builds upon the previous "Speechless" release by using similar pop elements. However, Chapman steps up to the next level with more guitar. Chapman loves to play guitars and it comes through on this cd.

"Declaration" begins with a creative and energetic "Live Out Loud". This song expresses a powerful message to "crank up the music and wake the neighbors," to show your faith to others. "Jesus is Life", flavored with an 80's sound, is a declaration that Jesus is not just an added part to life but that Jesus is life. "When Love Takes You In" is a piano driven ballad about Chapman's experience with his newly adopted daughter, Shaohannah. A song with a classic electric guitar feel, yet modern appeal, "Declaration of Dependence", makes a powerful statement that we've been bought with a price and this life is God's life, not our life (a "declaration of dependence" rather than a "declaration of independence"). The cd ends with a light guitar/flute sound woven with powerful violins and an orchestrated feel titled "Savior". A personal glimpse into Chapman's life and the pain he has experienced around him and the anger he has felt about that pain. It's an honest, heart-felt song of a man who has dealt with sorrow in his life and is tired and weak. It gives a light of hope in a Savior who can bring life and healing.

"Declaration" is sure to have many songs at the top of the charts, and if Steven wins another award it's because his music has touched lives and given many a great hope.

-Ellen E.