With her first two albums, My Freedom and All Because Of You, Lisa Bevill established a reputation as the dance/pop diva of contemporary Christian music. Her latest release, Love Of Heaven, modifies that image, taking on a more subtle and more sophisticated sound. Bevill's purpose and statements remain unchanged, however-and she has defined them even more concretely.
Bevill believes strongly that she is called to minister to young women. She has started a camp just for them, called "Place In The Sun Retreat." She is committed to writing songs which will relate to the issues girls face (self-esteem, physical appearance, etc.), and point to the love, hope, and wholeness that can be found in Christ. With that perspective of her intent, it is no surprise that as her vision has become more substantive and focused, so have her recordings.
Bevill contributes to the writing of four of the ten tracks, including "Turn And Love," a catchy admonition to "make every effort to do what leads to peace and mutual edification" (Romans 14:19). She belts out a reminder that:
We're all searchin' for something to replace the doubt And the fear of not knowing The answer's found in the heavens... So turn (everybody) and love (love everybody) Oh turn it around, turn the hurt into loving
Sure to be a hit, this song packs a strong melody and unbeatable harmonies that are as close as this project gets to the hooks of her previous efforts.
"Tender Reed" gives a good representation of Bevill's new bent. Its lyrics not only acknowledge the pain many adolescents face, but also give testimony to the healing power of God:
Oh tender reed Although you're so fragile Tender reed Although you've been bruised The gentle hand that grew you from a seed Will be all the strength that you need
Musically, it is a piano-propelled ballad that showcases the emotion and range of her vocal ability.
Although Love Of Heaven is filled with strong messages, as a whole it lacks luster and continuity. Responsibility for this unfortunate flaw rests more with the fact that the album has three separate producers than with Bevill's direction or delivery. It is easy to distinguish Don Koch, David Pack, and Jimmie Lee Sloas' individual imprints, and this detracts from the overall smoothness and cohesiveness of the project. And as Kathy Troccoli and Cindy Morgan (whose recent stylistic changes provide apt comparison for the nature and extent of Bevill's transformation) have both shown-albums that are predominantly mid-tempo and ballad-driven needn't drag or sound choppy.
It is evident that Lisa Bevill understands what it means to struggle and to face trials, as much as she has a passion and desire to share the hope that she has found. While her current release has some bumpy moments, as a whole, its overriding thrust, focus, and vulnerability are admirable-as well as enjoyable. On Love Of Heaven, Lisa Bevill seeks to do just what her album title implies-bring the love of Christ and the confidence that comes from knowing Him to today's teens.
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