

Producer: Ricky Atkinson
Label: Resting Place Music
Website: www.rickyatkinson.com
Over the past few years, Ricky Atkinson has come out as one of the most consistent songwriters in our industry. His songs are always lyrically strong and usually musically different. So many writers, after awhile start writing the same things and they start sounding the same. So far, Ricky hasn't reached that point yet. Many times you can't beat a songwriter singing his own songs, and Ricky Atkinson and Compassion have put together a fine piece of work showcasing excellent vocals and excellent songwriting.
The catchy uptempo song, "WHEN THE MUSIC STARTS" (which is very reminiscent of the song, "Song in my Soul" from their last recording) starts the recording off and running before things move on to the power ballad, "NOT WHAT I AM".
The upbeat country flavor of "TABLE OF THE KING" is a delightful tune and is very radio friendly and I would not be a bit surprised to see this song hit radio sometime next year. LaBreeska sings the encouraging "HE STOOD BY ME", while Samuel is featured on "MY GOD WILL NEVER CHANGE". This is a medium tempo song penned by Samuel along with Ricky, reminding us that though the winds of change may blow, God will never change.
Ricky sings "IN GOD'S TIME" (I know I've heard someone else do this song, but for the life of me, I can't place it) and does an excellent job before LaBreeska sings the progressive sounding "SOMETHIN' IN THE WATER". This is another song I would not be surprised to see hit radio. "ONE MORE TIME" is my favorite cut on the recording and you can't help but be taken in by the power and simplicity of this wonderful song of praise before the pace picks back up one more time with "THE TRUTH WILL COME OUT". The calming, reassuring message of the inspirational "MASTER OF THE STORM" closes out the recording on a plaintive note.
This is the Ricky Atkinson & Compassion at their best. They have excellent harmonies and are not afraid to stretch themselves musically, while still retaining the sound and style that they are known for. The music tracks are really cool and the vocals are top notch. The overall quality of the recording isn't as slick as something like Daywind, Spring Hill or Crossroads would put out, and in reality is the only thing that needs improving upon. But overall, it's still a rock solid piece of work.
Personal Favs: WHEN THE MUSIC STARTS; NOT WHAT I AM; TABLE OF THE KING; SOMETHIN' IN THE WATER; ONE MORE TIME; MASTER OF THE STORM
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