By: Kevan Breitinger
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Ronnie Freeman
God Speaking
White Apron Entertainment
Pop
01-08-2008
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SCORE
88%
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Nashville worship leader Ronnie Freeman’s sophomore project falls somewhere between the dramatic balladry of Daniel Kirkley and the pop power of Steven Curtis Chapman. Which is to say that his piano pop is both pleasant on the ears and spirit, and movingly, thoughtfully arranged. His worshipper’s heart shines through powerfully, leaving the telling mark of sincerity across these eleven thoughtful tracks.
Acoustic guitars open the bouncy, soulful “Breakaway,” and you are quickly struck by the soulfulness of Freeman’s vocals. His delivery on this opener is reminiscent of Jimmy Needham, with its passion and occasional rapid-fire lyrics. But things take a turn to the serious side with the nuanced, piano-driven “Fight,” covering the unseen spiritual battle that rages around us. Freeman’s keyboard talents peep through in the lovely and subtle piano flourishes throughout. Observers of pop culture will quickly recognize the lilting introduction to the title track, covered earlier by Mandisa. The dramatic piano ballad is both moving and challenging, proposing that God may be revealing Himself all around us, in circumstances as varied as a love song or the death of a loved one. The following “My Inheritance,” featuring the guest vocals of Christy Nockels, delightful as always, continues the dramatic vein on the melodic worship track.
A hooky chorus shines through the story song, “Love the Light,” shades of Steven Curtis Chapman, while more sweet piano nuances add texture to the gentle percolating pop of “The Other Side,” a song of deep gratitude. Messages of hope and victory abound on God Speaking, even on the tracks that tackle the harder issues of life. Standout track “Sober Me,” a somber piano ballad, is such a song. Freeman asks the hard questions behind the breaking up of a family with unrestrained emotion, creating a fluid and potent masterpiece of passion. The worshipful “No Changing That” also looks at the fragility of life, but chooses to celebrate the Lord’s steadfast nature through its lush piano pop.
Freeman winds things down with the lustrous ballad “The Only Thing,” giving all the glory to Jesus through its quiet, stirring chorus. Ronnie Freeman has offered up a fresh take on today’s worship, one that is warmly personal and spiritually potent. I think we have a winner.
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