Artist Info:Discography Album length: 12 tracks: 49 minutes, 30 seconds Street Date: October 2, 2007
I remember first hearing Phil Wickham's music back in 2003 and marveling at the way it didn't require
overly-elaborate melody or convoluted lyrics to be powerful. Over the course of his first two albums, the young Mr. Wickham
has proven he has a quality some of his contemporaries lack… his songs have got heart. Armed with a soul bent on worship,
an arresting vibrato, and a collection of new tracks with plenty of both- his third album, Cannons, sounds off.
Cannons' opening shot takes the form of "Must I Wait"- a diverse and driving tune that leads into
"After Your Heart"- the pair of which lyrically establish Phil's earnest desires for both his Savior's nearness, and to walk
worthy of Him. "Jesus Lord of Heaven" returns, having not been heard since Phil's independently released first album, which
is a treat for longtime fans. And of course, the title track itself boasts a resounding chorus that will no doubt find its
way into a few Sunday morning services. But it may be the third track, "Desire" that encapsulates what this album's all about,
declaring, "Jesus, if Your love's the fuel / Then I'm the desperate flame / That's screaming out Your name / My desire is
burning like a million stars / And I keep reaching out, reaching out for You." That's the concept and the feel of almost
every song. God is awesome, Phil adores Him, craves Him, is excited about Him, and thus he sings it out. This type of
thematic lyricism is fine, especially when writing about the wonder and awesomeness of God, but… it may feel a little over-done.
The album just doesn't have many breaks to give the listener time to digest and really appreciate the emotion and heart
of each song. I wish there were a few more narratives like the wonderful "True Love," to break up the pace. The guy is a
worship leader at heart, and he's very adept at writing thoughtful idioms into what otherwise might be just another worship
tune… but he's just as good at writing songs with less declaration and more exposition. Perhaps he'll explore that aspect in
his future work.
There's no denying Wickham's talent with lyrical melodies. He's always had a knack for composing the type of choruses that
just flow, staying with you long after hearing them. Phil doesn't really soar as much vocally as on his self-titled LP, which
is fine as the new songs really never call for it. The album overall feels well-produced, perhaps a little overdone, but about
what fans will expect. So, if you're looking for some nonstandard, Christ-centered music to drive to, read the Word to, or
otherwise refocus your attention back toward heaven- by all means give Cannons a shot.
- Review date: 10/1/07, written by David Goodman
Record Label: INO Records
Album length: 12 tracks: 49 minutes, 30 seconds
Street Date: October 2, 2007
Buy It:JfH Music Store
Record Label: INO Records
