Acoustic Reflections
Posted June 01, 2015
By JJFrancesco_NRT, Staff Reviewer
On the heels of a successful debut with Awakening Hearts, singer/songwriter Mike Lee returns with a follow-up EP, All I Need.
What Works:
The soft, acoustic approach carries a nice "rainy day" living-room feeling of intimacy, with simple instrumentation and well-mixed, passionate vocals. Lee is an effective worship leader and keeps the focus squarely on Christ.
"Come on, Come on" boasts a hook catchy enough to round out an album highlight that calls the Church to action in worship of Christ. Definitely a single candidate, the song's guitar riffs and upbeat chorus lends a lot of credibility to what Lee can accomplish as musician and lyricist.
"Different" leads with a country beat into an emotive chorus of praise. The song definitely sets a solemn and reflective mood. Lee's honest and vertical reflections set to simple, crisp music definitely succeeds at its goals and should help listeners delve into reflection and praise of their own.
What Doesn't:
Lee is capable of writing a standout worship milestone, but I think this EP may not be where it's found. The low-key tone will definitely make this an album for specific moods and tastes.
In a sea of albums aiming for the same goal, a big challenge facing this EP is defining itself among similar artists. I think that's one of the areas of struggle here that could be focused on in the future. Good things are certainly to come from Mike Lee, and I think this EP is just the opening number.
Closing Thoughts:
Mike Lee has crafted a deeply personal and relevant EP. Filled with honest reflections, powerful worship, and effective music, All I Need is all a listener would need to delve into the praise of God in song. The decision to opt for a simple acoustic approach will draw some, while possibly leaving others dissatisfied. And I do fear a sound and execution that is very familiar, despite the acoustic angle, could leave the project a bit too undefined to be a standout. Still, it's a success on many fronts, and it is a commendable achievement for Mike Lee.
Song to Download Now:
"Come on, Come on" View All Music And Book Reviews By JJFrancesco_NRT | View JJFrancesco_NRT's Profile
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