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Amy Grant's "Time Again...Amy Grant Live" creates an atmosphere as warm and inviting as the artist herself, and it's no accident.
Amy Grant wanted to recognize and celebrate “the longstanding relationship between a singer/songwriter and her audience,” one which has endured for almost 30 years. And while they weren’t all tumultuous, you’d have to concede that it has had its peaks and valleys. But Grant lugs out a couch and painting from her own home to accentuate her intentions: she’s with family. It’s a very gracious attitude, and that cheery warmth permeates “Time Again… Amy Grant Live” from the first familiar chords of opener “Lead Me On” to the last strains of her new studio version of “In A Little While.” That beloved husky voice is still strong, maybe a little raspier, but it only adds to her charm. And believe me when I tell you that “Time Again…Amy Grant Live” drips with charm. Immediately apparent is that her band is exceptional. Tight and solid, they never let up, backing her vocally at times, supporting her instrumentally through every measure. This camaraderie only adds to the warmth of the project, as does Grant’s obvious pleasure in including her husband Vince Gill, to join her on “Saved By Love” with some sweet mandolin. She also adds just enough chatter, sharing the stories behind the songs and creating a friendly intimacy. It’s gotta be said: Amy Grant has a big heart, affirming her regard for an audience that hasn’t always shown her an equal respect. But the tone throughout the project is upbeat and fun, again much like the artist. Recorded live over two shows in the same Fort Worth, Texas hall where she had her first professional gig, the set lists have been thoughtfully arranged to represent her three decades well. She mixes classic (“Lead Me On” and “In A Little While”), spiritual (“Thy Word” and the moving rocker “Ask Me”), straight up pop (the infamous “Baby Baby”), contemporary (“Believe,” the theme from her recent TV show) and songs that are just sheer fun (dance track “Good For Me” and the romantic “Stay For a While”). She mixes them perfectly, tweaking some old favorites nicely, including the new sizzle of “In A Little While” (closing the album with a second polished studio version). She turns that smokin’ band loose on “Takes A Little Time,” adding her own vocal edge to the slow rocker. That Grant country rock feel is familiar and cozy on tracks like “Simple Things” and “Out in the Open,” and the new soulful groove of “Every Heartbeat” makes it positively leap from the set list. And you couldn’t ask for better production. Amy Grant’s on stage couch says it all on “Time Again…Amy Grant Live.” Old friends and new will find this a cozy and satisfying hour and fifteen minutes. As a bonus treat, a DVD sampler is included with the CD, offering live video of four tracks. It’s a feast of riches from an old friend with a gracious heart and a voice that just won't quit.
The copyright of the article Time Again...Amy Grant Live in Christian Music is owned by Kevan Breitinger. Permission to republish Time Again...Amy Grant Live in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
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