Through the course of the past nine years, Sparrow Records recording artist Nichole Nordeman has proven herself to be one of Christian music's finest talents. Even from her 1998 debut, Wide Eyed, Nordeman's introspective songwriting paired with her classy piano playing and beautiful voice set her in a league of her own. Now here in 2007, Recollection: The Best of Nicole Nordeman is being released to commemorate this singer's career. This "best of" project is an excellent collection of Nordeman's work and quite possibly one of the greatest projects of this type ever released in Christian music.

Nichole's 2002 breakthrough single "Holy" begins the journey of Recollection. This particular song brought massive attention to her third project, Woven & Spun, helped her earn numerous Dove Awards for that disc, and built momentum for the forthcoming singles that would be released to radio. "Legacy" was another popular track from Woven & Spun, where Nordeman confesses that she "doesn't mind if you've got something nice to say about me" but "in the end I'd like to hang my hat on more besides temporary trappings of this world." "Holy" and "Legacy," both hits on Christian radio, still made room for the soft anthems of God's faithful "I Am" and "Even Then." This particular album is no doubt a cornerstone in Nordeman's career.

The first single to be released to radio in all of Nordeman's time as a recording artist was "To Know You," from her debut Wide Eyed. This song appears on Recollection followed by "This Mystery" from her sophomore outing of the same name. "Every Season," originally from the aforementioned disc, is one of the more emotional tracks that once again addresses God's faithfulness through all seasons of life.

Recollection does an incredible job showcasing Nordeman's finest work. From her early recordings that weren't afraid to ask questions of God's existence, to her most recent project Brave that celebrates God's very being and other aspects of life. "What If" boldly but gently challenges an unbeliever in their doubts and "Fool For You" finds Nordeman willing to sacrifice all for Christ. She even examines society's affect on today's youth with "Is It Any Wonder."

It seems that no "greatest hits" collection would be complete without a couple of new tracks. "Sunrise," recently released to radio, helps fill this void. This upbeat track is faithful to Nichole's signature piano-based style that has made her a mainstay is Christian pop music. "Finally Free" is also another debuting tune but is slightly more mellow than "Sunrise." Both songs only prepare the listener for any new material that this artist may offer in the future.

For years Nichole Nordeman has created fine art featuring her gorgeous vocals, remarkable piano playing skills, and her contemplative lyrics. Her popularity only continues to grow with each new offering. This is one amazing Recollection.

- Review date: 3/3/07, written by Lauren Summerford