Search - Sandi Patty :: Songs From the Heart

Sandi Shines in This Release

Mark Baker | Santa Clarita, CA United States | 04/10/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Sandi Patty was a force to be reckoned with in Adult Contemporary music during the 80's. This release from 1984 shows exactly why she was so popular. Not only does she have an amazing voice, but the songs she records have an amazing focus on praising God.The CD opens with "Give Him the Glory," a fun, upbeat praise song. I was surprised to find it was co-written by Steven Curtis Chapman. I didn't realize that he was writing music that early. "Sing to the Lord" follows in the same vein, as does "Wonderful Lord.""We Will See Him as He is" is a song focusing on getting to see God when we get to Heaven. The ending gives Sandi a chance to show of her incredible range. It never did capture the attention of her song "We Shall Behold Him," but it's every bit as good.Sandi's first child, daughter Anna, was born that year. This event inspires "Cradle Song," a tender song of amazement at God's miracle of birth.Of course, the highlight of this disc for fans is the incredible song "Via Dolorosa." The first time I heard this song, I was captivated by the powerful picture of Jesus walking down the road toward his crucifixion. 20 years later, it's still a Good Friday staple for me and countless others Christians who love it.Three songs later, we get the other side of the weekend with the joyful anthem "Glorious Morning." This is a wonderful praise song celebrating Jesus rising from the dead.In between, we get a request to be used by God in "Shine Down" and reminder of the Power we can tap into with prayer in "Pour on the Power." Both songs are fun, upbeat tracks."Purest Praise" celebrates the praise that children of all ages give God.The last track is probably one of Sandi's most vulnerable tracks ever. Sandi actually co-wrote "The Stage is Bare." This moving ballad is a prayer to feel God in her life when the spotlight is not on her. Combined with "I Need Thee Every Hour," it creates a powerful close.There really isn't a bad or dull track on this CD. I was amazed to realize it was released 20 years ago this year. It doesn't fall into a trap of sounding too 80's, so still holds up well today. Anyone looking for some wonderful praise music from an outstanding talent will love this disc."