Description
First Hand is the debut album by the American singer and songwriter Steven Curtis Chapman, released on Sparrow Records in June 1987. The album was produced by Phil Naish.
Backed by Nashville’s finest studio players, Steven Curtis Chapman establishes himself as a clean-tenored singer much along the lines of Russ Taff, yet favoring a pop approach over the R&B inflections heard in Taffs post-Imperials work. Like many current Christian releases, ‘First Hand’ probably would have sounded much different had it not been for the ‘Footloose’ movie soundtrack. (Perhaps the GMA should give Kenny Loggins a Lifetime Achievement Award for his contribution to gospel music. It seems long overdue.)
That observation aside, Chapman’s songs are well-crafted encouragements to holy living and commitment. «First Hand» exhorts the listener to live a sanctified life in response to God’s love. The Bo Diddley-cum-’80s rhythm kick-starts the record in fine fashion. Chapman follows with his debut radio hit, «Weak Days» (“If I keep my eyes on Jesus through the weekdays/ even on the weak days, He’ll keep me strong”). God’s faithfulness is a recurrent theme («Tell Me» and «My Redeemer Is Faithful and True») as Chapman sings, “Whatever happens, He’s faithful/ Those who depend on Him will never be disappointed.” Or, “in every situation He has proved His love to me/ when I lack the understanding, He gives more grace to me.” Timely lyrics – and solid language in which many listeners will find comfort.
Strong hooks and choruses distinguish this fine effort. Wayne Kirkpatrick and Chris Rodrigues, both of the Reunion Records talent pool, contribute to solid vocal backgrounds.
It’s a short hop down I-24 from Paducah to Nashville; it’s a much longer journey for an artist making the step from regional success to national status. On ‘First Hand’, Steven Curtis Chapman provides an impressive first look at his considerable songwriting and vocal talents. [Mark Eischer, CCM, September 1987]
> Apple Music (https://music.apple.com/us/album/first-hand/724403703)
LP tracklist:
Side One
A1. “First Hand” – 3:35
A2. “Weak Days” – 4:18
A3. “Hiding Place” – 4:58
A4. “Run Away” – 3:53
A5. “Do They Know” – 4:00
Side Two
B1. “Tell Me” – 4:19
B2. “Who Cares” – 5:06
B3. “Dying To Live” – 3:35
B4. “Said And Done” – 5:08
B5. “My Redeemer Is Faithful And True” – 3:47
Note: Simultaneously released on cassette and 12-inch vinyl LP by Sparrow Records. Re-issued on CD in 1989.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.