It almost seems unfair to include Goodgame in a list of virtual unknowns because his work is so familiar and handled with such impressive artistry. Touring with his wife and children, he's shared the stage with several prominent Christian and mainstream artists. He may be best known for his work with Caedmon's Call, lending his writing to "Only Hope," "Hands of the Potter," and most of Share the Well"a newly recorded version of the title track appears on this disc. His fourth solo album, War and Peace features some amazing musicianship from the likes of guitarist Kenny Meeks, pianist Ben Shive, and Caedmon's Call's rhythm section. But the highlight is Goodgame's inviting vocals and songwriting, which both capture the '70s folk singer/songwriter vibe better than most, recalling the likes of Jim Croce, Dan Fogelberg, Bill Mallonee, and Andrew Osenga. Like Chris Rice, he's particularly adept at storytelling, making life observations and then subtly pointing to Christian truths in most cases. There's simply not enough space here to get into his songwriting highlights about Peanuts, Pope Joan, the troops in Iraq, and Compassion International. Suffice to say that this is a wonderful folk album, with rich and textured songs that can make you think and move you to tears.
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