Michael English

Item: Hope
Author: Ann Hathcock

Hope

(1993)

Reviewed by Ann Hathcock

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Label Warner AllianceThe LighthouseMay 1993

adult contemporary ccm pop

Michael English's new album, Hope, continues his musical success with a combination of Biblical lyrics, diverse vocal range, and rhythmic-Pop style.

This album has a distinct message of encouragement to the Christian in our difficult days. "Holding Out Hope To You" has a powerful message of God's everlasting presence in our lives through doubt and confusion. In keeping with this theme, Michael sings a spiritual written by Babbie Mason called "A Place Called Hope."

Other songs capture the theme of love. "There Is A Love" and "I've Got A Love" tell of a relationship with our friend Jesus who holds us close to His heart. The album includes a love song to encourage couples entitled "Love Moves In Mysterious Ways."

In keeping with the Pop style of Michael's last album, "Always For You" inspires us to always pray and think of others in our lives. A powerful "Message Of Mercy" comes through the "Savior," which challenges Christians to show love to everyone around us and to encourage the disheartened. The last song ("There's Not A Crown Without A Cross") sums up the life for the Christian: "There's not a victory without a fight/There's not a sunrise without a night/There's not a purchase without a cost/There's not a crown without a cross."

The album identifies the listener to the hope, love, and saving grace of our Savior, Jesus Christ. It would be an asset to any Christian who enjoys Michael English's talent and his desire to use it to magnify the Lord.