What If We
Artist: Brandon Heath
www.brandonheath.net
Label: Provident
Time: 40:20

While being the GMA’s New Artist of the Year may not be the same as winning the Grammy’s new artist award, an accolade is still appreciated by any artist attempting to break into an industry. But it wasn’t the new artist nod that was surprising about Brandon Heath; it was the songwriter and song of the year nominations. In categories often filled with a Who’s Who of Christian music, such achievements are significant. Add in a couple hit songs and Heath must have felt as if he had hit a debut homerun.

Now Heath is set to release his sophomore album, _What If We._ But don’t assume that he took this new project lightly. In preparation of this disc, Heath wrote over 40 songs, including collaborations with Christy Nockels and the boys from Jars of Clay. He does return with the same production, but seems to feel a little more comfortable as an artist. He vocally evokes Dan Haseltine and Mark Schultz, imitating their ability to communicate through song.

The CD opens with the first single, “Give Me Your Eyes.” This hip-hop flavored track should connect well with fans of Mat Kearney. It lyrically focuses on having true compassion for people and asking God to give His perspective. “I think that the longer I get to know the character of Jesus,” Heath says, “the more compassion I personally have for others.” 

The stand out track from this album is the Heath/Nockels collaboration “No, Not One.” It is a message of hope reminding listeners that the greatest love is Christ. Unfortunately, there is not a Christy Nockels appearance on the track, which would be the only improvement to be made.

Other stand out songs include alt-country influenced “Wait and See,” acoustic ballad “Love Never Fails,” and the emotionally drenched “When I’m Alone.”

What If We is a huge step forward for Brandon Heath. He’s a maturing artist that continues to prepare himself for even bigger successes.

Shawn Dickinson 
Date Submitted: August 12 2008