Phil Wickham
Self-Titled
Simple Records/INO Records

I have had the pleasure of enjoying Wickham’s debut CD for a few months now, and even after an extended period of listening to it, I find it difficult to come up with the right words to describe just how good it really is.  I could easily use common descriptors like passionate, stirring, and authentic, but that just wouldn’t do it justice.  For real, from the first time I listened to it, I was drawn to Wickham’s vocal emotion and passion.  It is his passion, combined with the edifying words of the Gospel, that makes Wickham’s debut a powerful worship experience.

The majority of the soundtrack adheres to a pop-rock style that adds flare to the already poignant lyrics. The opening two tracks, “Grace” and “Messiah,” are prime examples of how well this combination works.  Also, Wickham includes a more congregational song titled “Always Forever,” which is more sing-able for those of us who are not as talented. For reference I have often thought Wickham is a little like Rocketown artist Taylor Sorenson.   

Wickham’s history includes being raised not only in a devout Christian family, but a musical family to boot.  His father was a pioneer during the “Jesus Movement” era, which birthed what is considered today’s contemporary Christian music.  At the age of 12, Phil Wickham was leading worship for his youth group and writing his own materials.  Now at the still young age of 21, he has carefully selected representation by a relatively new label, Simple Records, an imprint of INO Records.  Wickham is the second artist signed to Bart Millard (Mercy Me) and producer, Pete Kipley’s Simple Records.

As usual, those who have the gift of a good Christian radio station in their area have probably already been exposed to this gifted young artist.  If you have not, do not hesitate to check out Phil Wickham on line and be watching for any opportunity to catch him on the road.