Review / Comments ::

Michael W. Smith's Freedom album is purely an orchestral masterpiece!

The album boldly opens with its title track "Freedom", which won me over the first time I listened to it. At just over three and a half minutes, this opener if you will, took my breath away by building up to a cinematic like climax about half way through the piece. I can't help but turn up the volume and let the experience wash over me whenever I listen to track number (1) "Freedom".

(3) "Carol Ann," for which the album is dedicated to, is a heartwarming piece. If you've ever lost anyone close, this dedication to Carol Ann might just tug ever so gently at your heart, bring a tear to your eye, and generate loving memories of him or her.

When I listen to (5) "Hibernia," of course I think of Ireland; "Hibernia" being the Latin name for the island of Ireland. Maybe it's the toe tapping energetic feel, or maybe it could be the bagpipes, but this piece definitely lives up to its name.

With an active imagination, (7) "Freedom Battle" can transport you to the front lines. It starts out slow, calm and peaceful. Then a feeling of almost regret, sadness... followed by a strike, then another, and another. You are now in the heat of battle! Every encounter offers a new twist and turn, building to a climatic battle where it's all or nothing. Then a soft breeze clears the dust, the music now somber, yes the battle is over.

(10) "The Call," the only track on this album to feature vocals, uses them to create... WOW. I can't accurately describe the energy that The Call conveys. It's stunning!

I've wanted to review Michael W. Smith's Freedom album ever since I finished the first track. For me at least, this album offers a gentle blend of emotions, from highs to lows and places in-between.

Freedom has been an inspiration, and it will take a lot to topple this album from my favorites list.

Rating ::

Top Pick!

Related Web Links ::

Official Site:  michaelwsmith.com

Available At ::

michaelwsmith.com (CD)
iTunes Music Store US (AAC Download w/ DRM)
Amazon.com US (CD)

Album Copyright Information ::

© 2000 Reunion Records, Inc.

Review Date ::

Reviewed: July 2007
Last Updated: 01/01/2008
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