Phil Keaggy

Dream Again

Strobie Records
Grade: A

“Dream Again,” the second of two current releases for Keaggy, is his first vocal project in nearly six years.  That is a long time to wait for a master craftsman like Keaggy.  The prolific songwriter certainly wastes no paper (or in today’s terms, bytes) with contrite lyrics or half-hearted commercialistic music.  No sir, not on this album.  “Dream Again” is as timeless as Keaggy’s legendary guitar methods. 

The album is very personal in many ways as the lyrical content is either inspired by or derived from his family experiences.  Additionally, family members show up on the recording as well.  For example, vocals on “Micha 6:8” by his daughter Alicia, vocals and guitar by son Ian on “Why,” and “Revive Me.” 

Further proof of inspiration is “It’s You and Me,” a love song for Keaggy’s wife Bernadette and “There With You” for his daughter Olivia.  It is a particular pleasure when someone like Phil can put to song feelings that we can empathize with and share with our own families.

The themes running through “Dream Again” are very complex and that, combined with the expressive love and hope it portrays, is only seconded by his amazing abilities as a songwriter.  With an impressive career spanning over 30 years, “Dream Again” is an impressive addition to Keaggy’s catalog.

- Ken W.