Bethany Dillon Waking Up Sparrow Records Pop 04-03-2007

SCORE 91%

The story behind Bethany Dillon's maturity goes deeper than just turning 18, or even her recent mission trip to . The rich soulfulness of "Waking Up" comes from one very vital connection. These thirteen profound and intimate tracks flow from encounters at the feet of the Master, it’s obvious. They ring true spiritually, and that sincerity enhances their already significant power musically. In other words, Waking Up is deeply satisfying on several different levels.

Waking Up opens positively, with the first single, “The Kingdom,” a pop track that allows Dillon's clear vocals to beam through, and some sweet cascading riffs from what sounds like a 12-string guitar. This track is one of many on Waking Up that is crafted with great thoughtfulness, reminiscent of Nichole Nordeman. It also reveals Dillon’s willingness to cover the hard topics; in this case, it’s infertility, but the project also digs deep into the theme of guilt.

The following “Come Find Me” is also nicely nuanced, a richly ambient track that highlights Dillon’s new maturity as she cries out for guidance against the backdrop of a repetitive keyboard riff, very well done. I loved the title track’s rootsy bridge and its eloquent mandolin. Dillon has moved way past the simple girl-and-guitar theme. With Waking Up, she advances several levels in the school of writing, her music catching up nicely with her always intelligent lyrics. The fervent “Let Your Light Shine” showcases her wide vocal range, only enhanced by the rousing choir midway through the lush standout track. “Change” is an ethereal song of gratitude, and the mid-tempo rocker “Tell Me” also reveals Dillon’s transformation from a young girl to a woman solid in her faith, unafraid to be honest about her struggle to receive from the Lord. I found this track to be particularly generous, with the potential to be helpful to many listeners.

Her third studio album closes out with several more stellar tracks, including the sparkling “Beggar’s Heart,” the luminous fruit of the previously mentioned trip. But two others must be mentioned for their raw, powerful intimacy. Dillon unabashedly pours out both her adoration and honest vulnerability in the hushed “Are You Sure,” and the beautifully arranged “On Our Side” will stop you cold with its gutsy honesty. It’s time we recognized in Bethany Dillon so much more than just a young woman grown up; her talent and passion stand on their own, exceptional at any age.