Debut artists most often dislike direct comparisons to other artists. That is understandable. I usually try to avoid direct comparisons. Usually.
I can't get away from it here. O'Brien has a striking resemblance to Greg Long, Clay Crosse, and Michael English. While he would no doubt like to be placed in a "league of his own," this is by no means a "musical death sentence"--that is some impressive company. His powerful vocals will no doubt be making music for some time.
There are plenty of power-pop sounds--keyboards, horns, big background vocals in the chorus. The project isn't dull, by any means. The pop tunes yield to a few ballads to even the project into the vein of most pop albums available.
O'Brien was responsible for writing all the music (co-writing on only one) on the project, while the lyrics were primarily penned by Regie Hamm and Joel Lindsey--however, he did co-write the lyrics for "Free Again." The lyrics are straight-forward, each listing a related scripture, mixing the vertical praise to God with the horizontal aspect of living in this fallen world.
If you like the "big voice" brand of AC pop and INSP ballads, then Michael O'Brien will be a good addition to your collection.
Similar sounding releases
1995Al DensonDo You Know This Man
4HimSeason of Love
1994Greg LongCross My Heart
1996Chuckie PerezRhythms Of Tomorrow
The Imperials'Til He Comes
1995Jonathan PierceOne Love
