Keith Brown

Item: As Long As There Is Love
Author: Patty Masten

As Long As There Is Love

(1995)

Reviewed by Patty Masten

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Label CPIThe LighthouseApril 1996

adult contemporary ccm pop

Keith Brown is no stranger to fans of Christian pop music. His first album, This Side Of Heaven, produced many chart-topping songs, as well as a 1994 Dove Award nomination for New Artist Of The Year. Switching record labels, his current release, As Long As There Is Love, is on the fairly new, Christian division of Curb Records (home of such artists as Wynonna Judd, Tim McGraw, Whiteheart, Michael English, etc.). Brown's sophomore release should receive a warm welcome from his long-time fans. It also has the potential to earn him many more honors and to increase his audience base.

Lyrically, as well as musically, this project is more polished and mature, yet maintains Brown's strong pop sensibilities. After a three year hiatus, Brown returns to a Biblically-centered music focus, as is evidenced by the album's first cut, "A Heart After You." Brown relates his desire-to have a heart that hungers for righteousness and godly character, much like the examples of unwavering discipleship we find peppered throughout Scripture. As his self-penned chorus states:

The patience of Job And the fire of Moses I want the wisdom of Solomon ...And most of all Lord I want a heart after You.

In addition to a variety of up-tempo pop grooves, Brown offers a substantial selection of smooth, adult-contemporary styled ballads, including "The Powerful Song," "Desert Of My Soul," and "Gethsemane," as well as the title track. While Brown does not break any new ground, musically speaking, he certainly chooses enough contagious melodies. It is easy to see why he experienced some songwriting success in the mainstream prior to his entrance into the Christian market. He has a knack for creating infectious songs, lyrically as well as musically. He also knows how to utilize the right mix of tempos and vocal stylings.

As Long As There Is Love showcases a rejuvenated Keith Brown-a more well-rounded and defined artist. His much-anticipated release hones his craft further as both a singer and songwriter. Brown incorporates some fresh ideas and explores in greater depth some tried and true approaches. All in all, As Long As There Is Love is a solid effort.