Music Review: Woven and Spun by Nichole Nordeman

Stars: 5 out of 5
Pros: "Mercies New," "Even Then"

Cons: None

The Bottom Line:

Marvel at mercy

Go from question to worship

Wonderful CD

Nichole Weaves Songs of Grace

After two CD's focusing on the struggles and questions of life, Christian artist Nichole Nordeman decided it was time to focus on songs about God's mercy and grace. As she relates in the linear notes, this proved much harder then she imagined. The result, however, is Woven & Spun, her best CD to date.

Now when I first heard the change of focus, I will admit I was a little worried, but I had no need to be. Nichole had lost none of the power of her pen. Instead, she takes the familiar themes and give them new life.

The CD opens with "Holy." It's a song of surrender, admitting that all God really wants from us is the acknowledgement that He is holy. The song combines piano and a driving bass to drive home the message.

Even though the focus is on a familiar topic, Nichole manages to bring it home with fresh eyes. "Mercies New" wallows in the profound truth that God never gives up on us. It's grown into the track I repeat the most on this CD. "Even Then" continues the theme expressing joy that Jesus loves us warts and all. And Nichole's response to that truth is "Never Loved You More." Nichole's poetic pen is at its finest in "Healed," which shares metaphors of what our lives were like before and after Christ.

It seems at least one track per CD is a slow, moving ballad. That track this time around is "I Am." Each verse takes a different period in Nichole's life and shows what God meant to her then. The music consists of quiet piano with a few violins and a cello. It is absolutely beautiful.

Then there's the cover of Peter Gabriel's "In Your Eyes." I actually had to have someone tell me where it originated. This is still the only version of the song I am familiar with, but I enjoy the slightly 80's flavor and upbeat tempo.

The disc ends with "Gratitude." It's the more mature side of "To Give Thanks" from her debut project. In this song, Nichole gives thanks despite the trials of life. It's a moving prayer of humility and the slow, reflective nature of the ballad adds to its power. Again, piano is front and center with some guitar and very light drum in the background.

Stylistically, Nichole seems to have left her alternative days behind her. From start to finish, this CD falls on the adult contemporary side of pop. Piano dominates, and you can definitely hear Nichole's amazing playing in every song. Drums, guitar, and strings are used as needed. Mid-tempo is really as fast as the CD gets. Its slow and reflective mood fits the lyrics and reflects the awe and wonder of the truths shared.

I love all twelve tracks on Woven & Spun. It's a wonderful celebration of what God's grace means to Christians. And it's nice to see Nichole's honest lyrics shed light on a new theme.