Lauren Talley – I Live, ReviewsCD Review

Sep

2005

Lauren Talley – I Live

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Produced by Roger Talley & Kent Hooper (Executive Producers Mickey Gamble & Chris White)
Label: Horizon Records
Website: http://talleytrio.com

Lauren Talley has, it seems, for years been trying to find her voice. You know, that thing that sets her apart from her peers – that one (or more) musical aspect that really lets the world know who she is as an artist. I Live, Lauren’s third solo recording, found the singer even more frustrated – enough to make her want to call it quits half way through the recording process. After much prayer, Talley eventually settled in her own skin and I Live sort of finished itself.

Musically, the album isn’t Southern in the least bit. “I Live” kicks things off with a soft-pop sound, and it quickly leads into “Hope and Pray”, another song (written by Twila McBride LaBar and Rebecca J. Peck) that finds Talley exploring the world of Christian pop as opposed to traditional Southern sounds. The next few songs feature a mellower musical backdrop, but one that is still firmly established in the middle of the road sounds of the inspirational genre. The Kurt Carr original “That’s Just the Way the Father Is” features a slight r&b arrangement, while her cover of Crystal Lewis’ “Lord, I Believe In You” finds itself rooted in inspirational balladry.

Her cover of Darrell Evans’ “Redeemer, Savior Friend” sees Lauren shifting focus to a more praise and worship style, and it’s a hat that she wears extremely well. The Reggie Hamm penned “Someday You Will” finds her more in the light pop fare again reminiscent to early Michael W. Smith. “That Name” is the album highlight (as well as first Southern Gospel single). The original was recorded by Yolanda Adams on her Christmas recording, but it fits well in a nonseasonal format, recalling a more praise and worship feel than Holiday sounds. “More” is another lyrical gem written by Rebecca J. Peck and Marty Funderburk – a song of thankfulness for the many blessings God has bestowed on us. “Silent Treatment” features a transparent lyric about forgiveness after seeing a need and not acting upon it. The album closes with “You’ll Never Walk Alone” from Carousel (and written by Rogers & Hammerstein).

Overall, it’s wonderful to see that Lauren has found who she is musically, but my main gripe is the number of cover songs. Lauren covers five songs that were originally recorded by other artists. Don’t get me wrong, Lauren performs them beautifully, but at this point in her career, I would hope she was past so many cover songs. That is only a small gripe for an overall superb album.

Reader Comments

I love the album. I have it and listen to it constantly. I Live is my favorite. I hope that she keeps this sound.

Commented by Justin Endicott On 10/01/2005

I have been waiting on this review! I have been a Lauren Talley fan since her first solo project. I enjoyed this project from beginning to end. My favorite song was "That's just the way the Father is" That song almost made me have to pull my vehicle off the side of the road. All I can say is...When is the next one coming out?!?!

Commented by Jamie Carter On 10/01/2005

I would have given this CD an additional half star. I agree with Chris that Talley should record fewer cover songs, but she puts her own mark on them.

The production quality of this project is excellent.

Commented by David Bruce Murray On 10/03/2005

I agree this project contains too many cover songs. I like Lauren's music..but she is no Crystal Lewis. Same goes for Ivan Parker's version of "Redeemer". I think 4 stars is a generous rating.

Commented by On 10/12/2005

Lauren is a very talented young lady. If all you can find wrong with this album is the fact that she did a lot of cover songs, then she deserves
five stars. Who cares if every song on the album is a cover tune!!!! If she likes to sing them and they bless the listener, then who CARES!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Good job Lauren, Keep up the good work!!!!!!!!!!
If she needs or wants more new material, I'd say she wouldn't have much trouble finding it!!! Do the names Roger Talley or Kirk Talley ring a bell!!!

Commented by On 10/12/2005

I didn't say that that was why she got 4 stars. 4 stars is a very very good rating.

"4 stars - Definintely a notch above the other albums coming out. Sure it has it's flaws, but it's still a great record."

Commented by On 10/12/2005

Ok Chris thanks for all your hard work on this site.... Just thought I would pick at you a little!! God Bless You!!!

I appreciate all the info that is provided, you all do great!!!

I still think she gets 5 stars!!! LOL!!!!!!

Commented by On 10/13/2005

Everyone is mentioning her using "cover songs" in my opinion...she chose songs that wasn't "popular". I think I would see the complaint more if she chose songs that were in the top 40 of SGM. Most of the songs that were cover songs..I wasn't familiar with.

I think Lauren is an awesome singer and I'm looking forward to her next project!

Commented by Jamie Carter On 10/13/2005

Congratulations to you, Lauren, way to go young lady... we must have at least three number Ones on this CD,Right? Keep on singing as you are and I love you and anything you sing to. your friend in Southern MS. P.S. We like all of the Talleys singing to. God will keep on blessing all of you to. Polly in MS....

Commented by On 10/13/2005

hi lauren, i love your new cd i am going to play it a lot and request it on our radio station too. i think you are a nice, pretty young woman too. Jamey Melvin

Commented by On 10/15/2005

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