Ann Downing – God Looking In, ReviewsCD Review

Jan

2005

Ann Downing – God Looking In

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[19] Comments

Producer: Jeff Silvey
Label: Scarlett Song Music
Website: www.anndowning.com

Co-writing with various songwriters like Dwight Liles, Jeff Pearson, Daryl Williams, Woody Wright, Toni Clay, Patti Hawkins and Kyla Rowland, Ann has assembled a wonderful array of songs to comfort, delight, move and captivate the listener. Ann had a hand in writing all but two songs on this recording. I continue to be amazed at the talent she has in songwriting, which has only really come out in the last few years or so.

From the delightfully jazzy title song, “GOD LOOKING IN” to the reflective “ABOVE ALL ELSE”, Ann weaves her magic as she moves from the moving, emotional numbers to the fun, enjoyable tunes. This is Ann, as we've always known her to be as a singer, a warm personality whose heart shows through on each tune. This is by far, the best solo recording she has ever done.

The medium tempo “COME OUT OF THE DARKNESS” is a wonderful compelling song to “come out of the darkness, and into the Light” , before things slow down for the song, “HE ALREADY KNEW ME”. This song fits Ann like a glove as she makes you believe what she is singing about. Another song that flows very similar with this one is “STAY CLOSE TO ME”. Both songs are sung in Ann's inimitable down home style.

The bluesy “EARTH HAS NO SORROW” (which features Ann in a duet with Russ Taff) is a highlight of the recording, as is the highly enjoyable “HE'S WORKING THROUGH MY CIRCUMSTANCES”, which features a brief feature of Marsh Hall of the Gaither Vocal Band.

Previously recorded by Sondra Burnett, Ann turns in her own rendition of her song, “LOVE GROWS HERE” written with Jeff Pearson and Woody Wright.

A real treat on this recording is a resurrection of sorts, of Paul Downing. Recorded back in the very early 1970's by the Downings on their “Happiness Is…” album, by way of modern technology, we are treated with a duet with Ann and her late husband on the song, “ARE YOU TIRED?” before moving on to the song, “BRING ME BACK”.

Ann turns in her finest performance to date on her signature song, “I MUST TELL JESUS” . Starting with just Ann and the piano, the song builds quite effectively as Ann projects great dynamics in the song before she gets to the big ending …”I must tell Jesus, Jesus alone!”

It's great seeing Ann, after all these years, still making great music. This recording is a fine piece of work and displays the true musical artist that she is.

Personal Favs: GOD LOOKING IN; HE ALREADY KNEW ME; EARTH HAS NO SORROW; STAY CLOSE TO ME; ARE YOU TIRED?; I MUST TELL JESUS

Reader Comments

Enjoyed the review. Ann possesses not only one of the all-time greatest Southern Gospel voices, it is one of the best in any field. She is more than a singer. She is a song stylist. She can make a song a life-changing sermon.

Commented by On 02/01/2005

I thoroughly enjoyed working with Ann on "He's Workin' Through My Circumstances", and very excited she chose to include it on "God Looking In". She is fun, she loves the music, and it shows. I am proud to have collaborated with her.

Commented by On 02/01/2005

I HAVE THOROUGHLY ENJOY THE REVIEW, AND ENJOY HER C.D, I LOVE THE SONGS, ALL ABOVE ELSE, HE ALREADY KNEW ME, COMES OUT OF THE DARKNESS, AND HE'S WORKING THROUGH MY CIRCUMSTANCES...SHE IS A GREAT SINGER, AND SHE IS A FUN PERSON TO BE AROUND AND SHE LOVES THE GOSPEL MUSIC.

Commented by On 02/01/2005

Thanks for the great review on
Ann Downing's new project. She is a very talented and dedicated Lady.

Commented by On 02/01/2005

what a great review and thanks so much for honoring a talented artist...i truely have enjoyed this project and i am anxiously awaiting her next project!!! keep up the great work ann downing and thanks again thanks again for this write-up about her new project!! WAY TO GO ANN!!!

Commented by On 02/01/2005

Wow, this is just the best review!!!!

Can't say "thanks enough" for your time and energy in making the project something I can be more thankful for!!!

Blessings to you for your great work.

Ann D

Commented by On 02/01/2005

Thanks so much for this wonderful review of Ms Ann's newest project. Have really enjoyed this album and my prayer is that the Lord will continue to bless Ann Downing and her ministry.

Commented by On 02/01/2005

I believe this to be one of the best projects Ann has recorded. Each selection chosen has a message of encouragement and faith we all need to hear.

Commented by On 02/01/2005

Wow! What an awesome review of "God Looking In." It couldn't have said better. The first time you listen to this project you know beyond a doubt that God has initiated and blessed every song. Thanks for the fabulous review. May God continue to bless Ann Downing and ADM.

Commented by On 02/01/2005

James...what a wonderful review you have done on Ann Downing's newest CD.....God Looking In. Listening to this project of Ann's is great, however, attending any of her concerts and listening to and watching her perform these songs is truly a blessing.

Commented by On 02/01/2005

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