Description
After God’s Own Heart is the eighth studio album by the American singer and songwriter Steve Camp, released on Sparrow Records in 1987. The album was produced by Steve Camp and John Rosasco. Featuring the number one CCM hit “Whatever You Ask”, a song written by Michele Wagner and as well recorded on her self-titled debut album in 1989.
This album could have been subtitled, “soundtrack for a modern revival.” It’s one of a few things that hits you while listening to Steve Camp’s new release. First, theres no question that this project is in sync with current trends in Christian music toward overtly religious lyrics. Second, that Camp has, in his words, “nothing to prove,” and has reconciled his place in the music ministry. And third, that he continues to be an artist without a clear musical identity.
The choice of John Rosasco as co-producer and co-writer of six cuts should be somewhat telling. The tracks are full of high-tech ’80s production touches, but the music itself hearkens back to the styles of the ’70s, recalling at times earlier offerings from Camp like Start Believin’. Is this a great problem? Well, no, if the point is sales and airplay, since much of the modern inspirational music (which is where Camp appears headed) is still a bit behind the times musically. But it could be a bit disconcerting for the more rock-oriented fans who began to embrace Camp recently as his albums took a more decidedly edgy tone. One more comment on the music – at times it seems an inappropriate accompaniment to the messages of the lyrics, specifically on «Who Knows» and «Nothing to Prove».
More than anything, it’s the lyrics that make this Camp’s most inspirational album to date. Its themes are devotional in nature, and like many of the songs of the late Keith Green, do indeed serve to focus the listener’s thoughts on the grace and mercy of God. And it is perhaps here where Camp succeeds most greatly. Like David, it seems appropriate to describe the intent of this artist and this album as one after God’s own heart.
One last note: the “bonus track” on the CD, «Hopeless Sinners, Helpless Saints», is a hapless mess, out of synch with the brunt of the album and, shall we say, not essential. [Thom Granger, CCM, November 1987]
> Apple Music (https://music.apple.com/us/album/after-gods-own-heart/724477376)
LP tracklist:
Side One
A1. “Come To The Lord” – 3:22
A2. “The Church Is All Of You” – 5:31
A3. “Whatever You Ask” – 4:07
A4. “Who Knows” – 4:12
A5. “When I Survey The Wondrous Cross” – 5:27
Side Two
B1. “Nothing To Prove” – 4:38
B2. “After God’s Own Heart” – 5:16
B3. “If It Wasn’t For The Grace Of God” – 4:37
B4. “Revive Us, O Lord” – 5:12
B5. “Till These Earthly Days Shall End” – 4:02
Note: Simultaneously released on cassette, 12-inch vinyl LP, and CD by Sparrow Records (with the CD edition featuring a bonus track; “Hopeless Sinners, Helpless Saints”).
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.