Search - Sandi Patty :: Falling Forward

The Journey Forward

Staysun | Downers Grove, IL USA | 04/10/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This 2007 project is Sandi's first collection of new Contemporary Christian songs for the label INO. No small task here to attempt to follow up the sterling albums in the Sandi discography on the Impact and Word labels. Fortunately, this album is a great artistic success. Sandi's confidence in her new regular album producer, David Hamilton, is confirmed as well-placed with this project. The production values are terrific including the return of the Nashville String Machine to the ensemble of musicians.

The upbeat songs may contain the best moments: "Sing to the King" and "Step Into the Joy" are a return to the energy and drive of earlier Sandi Gospel dance numbers "Shine Down" and "Let There Be Praise". Note that 2007 "American Idol" contestant Melinda Doolittle provides a background vocal to "Step Into the Joy". Yes, you can hear Melinda in the mix (just like you could hear Sandi in her early 1980's back-up vocals with the Gaithers). We can pray for a Melinda/Sandi duet someday. There are two songs reminiscent of great Broadway ballads ("In My Heart" and "You Call Me Yours"). In the 1989 "Make His Praise Glorious" VHS Concert video, you can see Sandi's infant daughter Jenn reaching for the microphone when she is in Sandi's arms and attempting to sing at a most tender age. In the final track of this album, a now adult Jenn steps up to join her mother for "Grace Flows Down".

Sandi takes one look back in the "Sandi Medley" with abbreviated blended covers of her classics "Upon This Rock", "In the Name of the Lord" and "Who Will Call Him King of Kings" with a high-note finish (for those of us who want at least one anthem high-note finish per Sandi album).

Sandi looks forward with this entire solid set of new tunes: a fresh Praise and Worship album with accessible tracks that can reach the casual listener as well as the Sandi faithful in the popular Inspirational tradition that is Sandi Patty. Falling Forward: ...into His Arms of Grace Songs for the Journey"

Sandi Patty: Falling Forward

Staysun | 04/10/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This newest release of Sandi Patty features nine all new songs and one medley of Sandi classics. The only thing I can think of to criticize on this album is that there isn't more of it. With only 10 tracks, I'm left wanting more!



Sandi's voice is instantly recognizable in the Contemporary Christian Music world. With 39 Dove awards, 5 Grammy's, 4 Billboard Music Awards, 5 Gold albums (RIAA), 3 Platinum albums (RIAA), and a 2004 induction in the GMA Hall of Fame, there is no question that Sandi Patty IS "The Voice of Contemporary Christian Music".



However, "The Voice" has aged from the early recordings like "Hymns Just For You" and "Live:More than Wonderful." Her earlier recordings were an amazing display of a voice that a sharpness of tone, clarity, and range that rivaled Joan Sutherlands which showed her to be a trained classical singer in the purest sense. But like wine, Sandi's voice has gotten better with age. Her voice has gained a warmth and depth that I find wonderful. Her voice is richer than ever. And as any classical singer will tell you, a sopranos golden years hit from late 30's through her 50's and even early 60's if she takes care of her instrument. Sandi's voice on this newest release is a testiment to that belief!



This album is not a fireworks filled album. Don't buy it expecting big finishes at Bb or higher. This album reminds me greatly of her 1997 release "Artist of My Soul." It's a beautiful recording that touches the soul and helps you understand the other side of falling; the grace and joy of Christ.



Also like "Artist of My Soul," I feel the real meat of this release comes in the middle. Tracks 4-7 are my personal favorites on this recording, with "You Call Me Yours" (track 9) coming in close to the top as well.



This is a great album for Sandi Patty fans! She is in great voice. The sweetness of tone, mixed with her new richness and warmth makes this an instant classic in the Patty discography!



I can only hope that choral arrangements and solo tracks are on the way!"

Sandi's back

Mr. Victor D. Nickerson | LIVERPOOL, nova scotia Canada | 06/05/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Just listened to this cd and takes me back to her heyday. the songs are impeccable and her voice is spot on. no wonder she is known as "the voice"."