The Analog Sessions
Artist: Shawn McDonald
Label: Sparrow
Records
Release Date: March 26, 2013
Duration: 13 tracks, 52:26
When Sparrow Records approached Shawn McDonald regarding the
production of a best hits album McDonald saw an opportunity. Rather than
cranking out the typical best hits McDonald seasoned the dish by:
·
Re-recording the hits included on ‘The Analog
Sessions’ at Welcome to 1979 analog studios in Nashville using only vintage
analog equipment giving the sound a raw and vibrant feel sure to please both
fans and audiophiles.
·
All songs were re-recorded live in the studio
with a full band – McDonald’s new band. Yes, he’s now being supported by a full
band rather than the solo, singular accompanist, or studio musicians used in
past live and studio performances.
·
The ‘best hits’ included are a combination of
songs having the most ‘hits’ on iTunes AND some of the band’s favorites.
·
Two new songs accent the collection with “What
Are You Waiting For” and “Through It All”. Each of the new songs are offered as
recorded in the analog sessions and as radio versions at the end of the album.
The Analog Sessions include songs representing McDonald’s
albums. Although fans may miss a few of their favorites the overall selection is
a well-rounded presentation of his message, art, and gifts.
The tracks include:
1.
Eyes Forward – from 2011’s Closer album.
2.
What Are You Waiting For? – new song telling the
listener to step forward now into Christian faith.
3.
Gravity – from his initial 2004 album Simply Nothing.
4.
Closer – from the 2011 Closer album.
5.
Through It All – new song telling of how God’s love
stays with us independent of our actions or lack there of.
6.
Rise – from the 2008 album Roots.
7.
Captivated – from 2008’s Roots.
8.
Beautiful – from 2004’s Simply Nothing.
9.
The Space Between Us – from 2011’s Closer.
10. Take
My Hand – from 2004’s Simply Nothing.
11. All
I Need – from 2004’s Simply Nothing.
12. What Are You Waiting For (Radio Version)
[Bonus Track].
13. Through It All (Radio Version) [Bonus Track].
What stands out in The Analog Sessions is a new, fresh sound
provided by live tracks on Analog equipment performed by a tight band rather
than studio musicians. What continues to truly stand out in McDonald’s songs
are his gifts which provide His message.
NOTE: see related concert review and interview with Shawn
McDonald in the June, 2013 edition of Phantom Tollbooth.
Scott S Mertens
4 tocks
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