Michael W. Smith

Healing Rain

Reunion Records

“Healing Rain” is what I would expect from M.W.S., but he doesn't break any new ground. I would be willing to bet, though, that most people don't care if it's ground breaking or not. Instead, they are just happy that he's made a return to his pop foundation. Michael doesn't completely abandon the praise and worship though, as this CD is book-ended by two vertical worship tracks co-written with Martin Smith (Delirious) – “Here I Am” and “All I Want”.

The title is signature MWS, to the point that it sounds like he's gone back to his late 90's style. Taking us further back is the song “Hang On”, which has an 80's New Kids On the Block sound. The best of all is “I Am Love”, a song written by Taylor Sorenson (Rocketown) which is the most progressive on the CD. Michael also does a nice cover of “Bridge Over Troubled Water” which is a pleasant addition to the album.

Although M.W.S. doesn't explore new ground, it's more significant that this is his first pop release since 1999. There's enough good material and fresh songs that make this album worth it for any M.W.S. fan.

- Ken W.