The Isaacs – Big Sky
Producer: Mark Bright
Label: Gaither Music Group
Website: http://www.theisaacs.com
I remember sitting in the audience at the 2007 Harmony Honors this past January and hearing what would be my first taste of the new recording from The Isaacs. As usual, the Isaacs exceeded my expectations – as well as that of the audience that night. I knew that I was listening to what could easily be the strongest cut on the group’s new recording – and maybe even of their whole career.
The Isaacs’ previous recording – Heroes – was a watershed album for the group. It earned them numerous awards as well as droves of new fans. Since the release of that album – the group has appeared all across the world and recorded with artists like Alabama and Dolly Parton. The group was at the top of their game.
After a chance meeting with super-producer Mark Bright (who has produced albums for the likes of country superstars Carrie Underwood, Sara Evans, Rascal Flatts, and more), The Isaacs found themselves making their newest album Big Sky with Bright behind the board.
Big Sky showcases everything that we have come to love about the Isaacs – tight harmonies, beautiful melodies, strong musicianship, and lyrics that tug at the heart. However, it also shows the group treading new music territory, thanks in part to the stunning production work of Bright.
Older fans of the Isaacs need not worry – as the album is chock full of their traditional style – such as the rousing bluegrass number “Walk On” which is added bits of flavor with an unexpected string section. “The One I’m Dying For” (the song mentioned in the opening paragraph) features one of the strongest lyrics ever from the talented group as well as traditional harmonies and a strong musical accompaniment. “Love Is a Cross”, which features Ben, is another traditional number musically.
The album takes some unusual risks as well, such as the pop-country sounds of “Big Sky” and “Through the Valley” which feature striking background vocals and strong musical accompaniment. Both songs could easily be found at home on a Carrie Underwood or Martina McBride record.
Lyrically, the album is in fine form as well. The Isaacs continue to be a group that writes about atypical topics than the normal Southern Gospel fair. “Barbie Bandaids” speaks of the emotions a mother feels as she watches her daughter grow up “one Barbie bandaid at a time.” “The One I’m Dying For” talks of Christ’s crucifixion through the eyes of the thief on the cross, while “Love Is a Cross” is a touching ballad speaking of a wayward loved one. “Umbrella”, the album’s closer, speaks of God’s love, comparing it to an umbrella that covers the believer.
It’s difficult to look over the Isaacs’ career and find an album that wasn’t a truly great piece of work, and Big Sky definitely doesn’t disappoint. While Heroes would be seen as the group’s watershed release, Big Sky could very well be seen as their career recording. This is the album that the group was destined to make.
Track listing:
1. Big Sky
2. Through the Valley
3. The One I’m Dying For
4. I Bring It To You
5. Barbie Bandaids
6. Love Is a Cross
7. Walk On
8. That’s Alright By Me
9. When A Broken Heart Heals
10. Umbrella
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[10] Comments
They did several of their new songs when I saw them live a couple of months ago and I agree, this is a tremendous project. I can't wait to get this one!
"The One I'm Dying For" is an AWESOME song. It's the best song on the entire project. My little girl loved "Walk On".
"Big Sky" is a wonderful compilation of great songs! We just saw the Isaacs this past Saturday in Chambersburg, PA and they performed quite a few songs from this latest project. I have particularly enjoyed the following songs: Big Sky, Through The Valley, The One I'm Dying For, Barbie Bandaids (quite a touching song to me especially since I have a daughter, I can relate), and Walk On.
Written: 05/01/2007 
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