I'll start first by saying that this whole album is just a ballad, or a love song to God. If you will break precedent and fall on your knees with your heart in the right place, you'll be in the presence of the Holy Spirit. There's something here for everyone, in my opinion. The album begins with a very mysterious introduction which leads into Rich Mullins' "Step By Step", which, by the way, is part of Smith's own "Forever We Will Sing". It then moves on to a very Celtic/Irish-like atmosphere of worship. The whole album is very mellow and soothing, but powerful in every sense of the word with some beautiful Irish instrumentation and outstanding background vocals! He has some songs of his own that he co-wrote with his wife, Debbie, and "I Can Hear Your Voice" written by Smith, Debbie, and their daughter Whitney. He also composed an instrumental piece called "Sacred Romance" which is very self-explanatory in Christianity terms! It includes 3 studio tracks that are very beautiful and heart-felt, the last of which being "There She Stands" a sobering patriotic song written by Smith and Wes King. If you will just take the moment to let this sink in and dwell on the beauty and power of God's infinite love, this album will deliver something amazing that will make it just as great or better than its predecessor!

With his first worship project (Worship, released September 11, 2001) still high in the charts, Michael W. Smith released his sophomore worship project simply titled 'Worship Again' on October 22, 2002. I absolutely loved 'Worship,' and I had a chance to preview some of the new songs on the "Worship DVD," so I had been looking forward to the release of this project for months and ran out first thing this morning to pick it up (nearly making myself late for work!). I can safely say I was sold the first copy at the store because the clerk didn't even have them out of the box yet when I arrived.

I was certainly not disappointed when I listened. MWS brings the same passion and musical talent to this album, recorded live at Southeast Christian Church in Louisville, KY. It has upbeat praise choruses like "Step By Step/Forever We Will Sing," a moving instrumental, "The Sacred Romance," and the great chorus "I Give You My Heart," just to name a few. Awesome crowd and choir particpation made for a great version of "You Are Holy (Prince of Peace)." Amy Grant provides a nice solo verse in the studio cut of "Lord Have Mercy." And no one can deny the great patrotic tribute in the bonus track "There She Stands." "Worship Again" is a great follow-up to the "Worship" project. I give it 5 stars! I'm thinking Worship 3, how about it, Smitty?? ;)

Unlike some of the other reviewers, I actually liked this one better than the first. The Celtic undertones and the mix of new songs with the classics really made it a great worship experience for me. I coupled buying the CD with attending the Come Together and Worship Tour with MWS and Third Day, which has enhanced my enjoyment of the CD.

As I mentioned, the Celtic feel, which is very prevalent in worship music today, really made the CD sing. Songs like "Ancient Words" and "Lord Have Mercy" have a feel of mystery about them which is fresh and new. The upbeat songs are great too, but I've always thought Smitty's greatest talents are more in the ballads and semi-classical motifs.

With all due respect to those with more charismatic leanings than my own, I was glad that this recording did not have any "mantra-like" songs like "Let it Rain" from Worship. The climaxing screaming and shouting that accompanied that track was a bit over the top for me personally. This being said, I think that this album will appeal a little more to the meditative worshipper in some ways.

Overall, a must-have for any Smitty fan, and a great purchase for any worshipper.

Chris

Perhaps if MWS did not entitle this CD "Worship Again," some of the reviewers would have been a little kinder. I don't know MWS, but I would venture a guess that he did not seek to duplicate the essence of "Worship" when he embarked on this production.

Worship Again has its own sound, its own melodies, its own flavor. I did not listen to this CD and try to compare it with its predecessor, because you cannot. Its two different productions.

MWS brings his own unique style- his unique style as a musician and singer, to this live concert. This CD is every bit as worthy of commendation as Worship because of what MWS brings to the table---the heart's desire to glorify G-d with his music.

I Love this CD! Micheal W.S. is a great worship leader and definitely takes you into the presence of God through his worship. I loved his arrangments on each these songs and the other singers and musicians that he features! Great job Smitty!

God bless you!!