Michael W. Smith

Item: Freedom
Author: Mark Baker

Freedom

(2000)

Reviewed by Mark Baker

Discogs Apple Music TIDAL Amazon Music Spotify YouTube Music

Label Reunion RecordsThe Rebel Base2001

celtic new age

Whenever an artist steps out of his/her box, it is a big risk. On the one hand, if the album is a success, they would be more diversified than ever, but on the other hand, the new branch of music could be unsuccessful, and it could hurt the artist's reputation. Fortunately the former is true with Michael W. Smith's debut instrumental release, Freedom.

Recorded in Dublin, Ireland, Freedom has a truly unique approach to it, however, the style and quality of the music is much the same. To make an instrumental CD like this had been his goal for quite some time, as it is "what I have heard in my head for so long."

Each number is a true masterpiece, and although there are no words the true message and thoughts are really brought out by pure music. Sometimes words just get in the way of true expressions of the soul, and it's easy to tell that a piece of Michael W. Smith's heart and soul went into these twelve songs.

The title track is the first song on the album, and expresses inner feelings of freedom quite well. "Carol Ann" is dedicated to Carol Ann Lee, who died in the year 2000, and shows the joy of one who now is in Heaven with the Father. By far the best movement on the album is the fifth track, titled "Hibernia." The string arrangements are truly beautiful, and the song flies at a tremendous pace that will stir your inner being.

"Freedom Battle" gives almost a frantic feel, as though the listener is in a battle. There are parts that really show that there is conflict going on, which then raise to a climax, and go down to more peaceful melodies. Once again, pure music shows so much more than the trite lyrics often found in today's Christian music world.

"The Call" starts out with the only vocals on the whole CD, angelic chanting sounds, then moves on to chants by Smith himself. It's amazing where these tracks will take you in your mind. You can soar over a majestic waterfall, or move to the battlefield, fighting for freedom. Next, Michael W. Smith plays a familiar hymn, "Thy Word." He added some extra accompaniment with horns and strings, and some extra piano solos that add a lot to the experience. He ends up his masterpiece with "Free Man," which uses an electric guitar in almost a melancholy way. Although one of the weaker tracks, it is soothing nonetheless.

If you liked the Braveheart soundtrack, or instrumental music at all, this is a must. If you have never listened to much instrumental music, I recommend it; it's more than just music.

Mark's Score: 4.5/5