Al Denson is making a comeback of sorts with this project. He includes a significant amount of explanation in the liner notes about how this music relates to his experience in surviving a small plane crash in December 1994. From that crash, in which he was badly injured and his friend was killed, he says "...I quickly learned that God wanted my undivided attention. He wanted me to 'slow down' and focus on nothing else but Him." Since many of the vocal tracks were recorded in the "Al's Bedroom" studio, we know that much of the work was done while he was still recovering.
The lyrics for this album reflect that desire to know God and to make sure others do as well. The title cut, "Do You Know This Man" uses a courtroom scene in which the defendant is questioned not only if he knows Christ, but if Christ knows him. "See Him" reflects the struggle of trying to get people to really see Christ. "More To Love Than Meets The Eye" is a clear description of Christ's love as shown at the Cross.
A second theme comes through the music-the need for unity within the body of Christ. "Church of Love" combines a gospel beat with a very catchy tune and a call to be a church that shows love. "Stand on Love" and "Soul to Soul" also echo this theme.
The music is very much a team effort, with three producers, Paul Mills, Blair Masters, and Bryan Lenox sharing the duties. Tina Vallejo joins Denson for a duet on "Pledge to Purity". Dennis Patton wrote three songs and is featured on keyboards and drums on several songs. Background vocalists include Bob Carlisle, Karthi Masters, Lisa Bevill, Lisa Keith, and Rick Elias, who also wrote one of the songs. Guitars are provided by Dann Huff while Phil Madeira joins in on "Church of Love" both as the B-3 organist and the preacher's voice in the background.
Denson is perhaps best known for the countless teen conventions and song services he has done, plus his groundbreaking work in developing chorus tapes for youth groups. This album, while still accessible to young people in its ear-friendly pop stylings, reflects a new maturity and should finally give him the chance to be accepted by an adult audience. It certainly represents a major step in that direction from all his previous work.
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