Shawn McDonald
Simply Nothing
Sparrow Records
12 tracks @ 49:44

This is an excellent debut record. Its understated folk-styling will appeal to listeners of Bebo Norman and Andrew Peterson.

Lyrically, every song is standout. The meditative “Take My Hand” is about the need for having God in one’s live. “Gravity” explores the constant pull between living in this world and not being of this world.

While Bible verses are not listed, “Hold On” is a plea to God that seems inspired by Hebrews 11:1. Thematically it is similar to “Take My Hand.”

Simply Nothing is what we are if we do not learn love.

“Beautiful” and “All I Need” revolve around the same theme—God, who created everything, can seem far away yet knows me better than I do.

“Have You Ever?” raises questions that we may all ask of ourselves at some time, “Have you ever wanted to be someone else? Have you ever wanted to reach your dreams . . . to be more than it seems?” The answer to those questions, to being fulfilled, is Jesus.

Several tracks feature wonder harmony from back-up singer Cara Flory. I won’t be surprised if she has her own record some day.

Highly recommended.

- Rob S.