Album of the Year Posted September 09, 2023 By KevinDavis_NRT, Staff Reviewer
What You Need to Know Lauren Daigle, a two-time GRAMMY singer and songwriter, has released an extended version of her recently released self-titled album. About the release, Lauren shares, "This is my most precious project. It's got fun, solemn, extrovert, and introvert moments. And I'm just thrilled about taking my songwriting further on this record than I've done previously."
The album's hit single "Thank God I Do" marks the launch of a new creative chapter for the multi-platinum-selling, Louisiana-bred artist, who announced the signing to Atlantic Records in partnership with longtime label home Centricity Music. The extended-release showcases Lauren’s gifts as a songwriter and her shimmering, emotion-laden voice. Lauren Daigle (Extended) is loaded with positive, grace-filled messages of hope. Her songs address the pressures of life, and she understands that her identity only comes from her relationship with God.
What it Sounds Like “Thank God I Do” is an incredible song that touches me in many ways. Her passionate vocals set Lauren's exceptional album apart. The messages in her songs are relatable to many people. The standout tracks on the album are "New," "To Know Me," "Valuable," "Don't Believe Them," "These Are the Days," "Love Me Still," "Sometimes," and "Be Okay." Lauren's vocals are strong and pure, making them a highlight of the album.
Spiritual Highlights Lauren's self-titled album contains stand-out anthems with convicting declarations. So many people can relate to the message of “Thank God I Do.” This song is a comforting message that there is always hope. “New” is based on several biblical truths, including Lamentations 3:22-23. A prayer of thankfulness for the comfort and rest offered by God is beautifully captured in “To Know Me.” Lauren beautifully expresses gratefulness, “I could tell you all the details of who I am/but then again, to know me/you would have to know my friend.”
“Love Me Still” reminds us of our standing before God. The song is filled with grand statements of faith, celebrating our freedom in Christ. The song's message challenges us to think about our doubts and trust in Jesus to overcome fear and anxiety. We can join in singing the chorus, “You love me still/You always will/nothing can change it/nothing can change it.”
“Valuable" can be described as an empowering anthem that helps to overcome fear, worry, and anxiety. It provides an excellent support system to sing along with and uplift your mood. The emotional journey the song takes you on is enhanced by its moving musical arrangement, making it impossible not to join in and sing along with the stirring lyrics every time you hear it. You’ll understand how God feels about you from the beautiful refrain: “What would God say to you?/Oh, every tear He catches with His hand/He knows how your heart breaks within/you’re valuable.”
Best Song “Thank God I Do” is my heart's cry and anthem to sing daily in praise to the Lord, regardless of my circumstances, doubts, or worries. Believers are called to find freedom in the cross of Jesus, where they are liberated from fear, addiction, insecurity, and the pursuit of perfection. Jesus died for us so that we can truly live in Him. I sing along at the top of my lungs to the sincere and passionate lyrics of submission: “You’re my safe place/My hide away/You’re my anchor/My saving grace/You’re my constant/My steadiness/You’re my shelter/My oxygen/I don’t know who I’d be/If I didn’t know you/Thank God I do.”
Final Word I love Lauren’s intentionality and focus on God's provision in her life. She is a uniquely gifted singer/songwriter with a big, memorable, dynamic, yet intimate voice. These songs' poetic lyrics poignantly capture life's simple yet vital messages. The emotional vocals and the prayerful lyrics in these sacred songs engage me. Lauren’s vocals will soothe your soul. Do yourself a favor and listen to these beautiful expressions of faith, hope, and love.
Several personal pieces melt my heart, especially “Thank God I Do,” “Valuable,” “To Know Me,” “Don’t Believe Them,” “Love Me Still,” “Sometimes,” and “Be Okay.” Lauren Daigle (Extended) is for you if you like female singers who make you think while you enjoy their catchy and empowering songs. I have three young daughters, and this is a captivating album filled with positive messages. This is my album of the year.
