Kent Bottenfield
Take Me Back
IBB Records

This album was much better than I had anticipated. My preconceived notions of baseball-player-turned-musician clouded my thoughts before I had really given it a chance. So cheers to you Kent. Kent’s vocal abilities are far superior to that of a hobbyist, and Take Me Back is a fascinating work of inspiration and adult contemporary styles.

Prior to delving into the music world, Kent was an All-Star pitcher and an accomplished athlete. However, debilitating injuries would drive him out of the sport he loved and eventually to this new path. His inspirational style of writing proves that Kent was surely leaning on God’s grace to get him through this transition. Even more challenging, after just finishing the CD, Kent was faced with a medical emergency which nearly cost him his life. His testimony of triumph and preservation are truly inspirational.

It’s easy to see why writing such wonderful songs would be so natural for Kent. I’m only a closet inspirationalist, but Take Me Back will not find itself at the bottom of my CD collection anytime soon. I want to clarify too, that although his style leans towards inspirational and adult contemporary, the production of this CD includes some moments of rock that really help lift it up. For example, “How Long” is a song that highlights Kent’s inspirational songwriting with an aggressive rock sound with hot guitar leads. The title track then settles back down with plush strings and Kent’s signature voice.

The CD was originally released in 2004 and is now distributed through TAG Artist Group. Take Me Back was produced by Michael Omartian, and overall I found it be reflective and enjoyable to listen to. The song writing is all original except for two fine recordings, “Great Is Thy Faithfulness,” and “Amazing Grace.”

- Ken W.