Matthew West is another newcomer to CCM, squeezing the release of his debut solo record in before the close of the 2003 year. Happy is a unique alt-pop record that couldn't have been given a better title. West's vocal styles vary quite greatly as his similarities range from Bebo Norman to Aaron Spiro to Daily Planet. Musically, Happy offers rock-glazed upbeat pop with boisterous moments like the title track and more laid back ones like the melodic "The Turnaround."
For the most part, West isn't extraordinarily innovative or different, but he injects personality and heart into his recordings, helping them to stand out from the rest in the pop/rock genre. Matthew West's debut Happy may not be the best release from a new artist in 2003, but it's a promising one. I can see West having a lot more in the coming years of his career in CCM, so keep an eye out for this elated young man.
- PReviewed 12/2/03; Review date: 1/13/04, written by John DiBiase
 CXMMXNS Release Brand New Album, "The Commons Chapel"Mon, 12 Jan 2026 20:30:00 EST |
| Worship Together Conference Celebrates 10th Anniversary with Chris Tomlin, Natalie Grant, and More Mon, 12 Jan 2026 18:00:00 EST |
| m1L and R.kitect Drop Pure Cinema with Collab EP, "4ZERO7" Mon, 12 Jan 2026 17:45:00 EST |
| Nathan Plumridge Releases New Single "Jesus In These Shoes," feat. Compliments of Gus Mon, 12 Jan 2026 17:10:00 EST |
| CeCe Winans Leads "House of David" Season 2's "Inspired By" Album Fri, 09 Jan 2026 17:00:00 EST |
| Elevation Rhythm Releases New Song "Thank God I'm Free" feat. Lizzie Morgan Fri, 09 Jan 2026 16:40:00 EST |
| Matthew West Kicks Off 2026 with New Single, "Good" Fri, 09 Jan 2026 16:20:00 EST |
Click here All News Headlines | 
RSS
Amanda Cook SURVEY: Part 3, The Blue Tent [Wings]
