Kari Jobe: "Where I Find You" Review

Gateway Church worship leader Kari Jobe released her critically acclaimed debut album in 2009 via Integrity Music, instantly being admired for her heavenly vocals and tranquil melodies. This album spawned the renowned worship tune "Revelation Song", as well as garnering a Dove Award. Now one of the best-selling artists in Christian music returns with her highly-anticipated sophomore album and Sparrow Records debut, Where I Find You. Produced by Ed Cash and Matt Bronleewe, this album encourages the listener to seek God's presence and fully experience the depth of His peace and love, while also praising God for everything he Has done in our lives.

Classical strings open up the album with "Steady My Heart", a gentle contemporary track which speaks of finding God's peace in the middle of life's messes, beginning the album on an excellent note. This transitions into the first single "We Are", which has already been connecting with listeners at radio. Based on the message of Ephesians 5, this song gives a comforting reminder that we are more than our past mistakes, and encourages us to be the light of the world God has called us to be. "So wake up sleeper, lift your head / we were meant for more than this / fight the shadows, conquer death / make the most of the time we have left." Listeners will be singing along to the memorable hook in no time!

The simple "One Desire" is a passionate track of praise that contains heartfelt lyrics, and is sure to have the listener immersed in worship. "With my heart bowed low, and my hands held high / All consuming fire, You're my one desire." Kari's beautiful vocals are the perfect match for the peacefulness of this track, which is sure to be heard in churches all over the world. "Find You On My Knees" sums up the theme of the album and showcases the magic in Kari's soaring vocals. Coming from a place of pain and confusion, this song speaks of finding God when we are at our lowest point, and falling to our knees and allowing Him to speak to us. This worshipful ballad is worthy of multiple listens, and serves as one of the rawest songs on the album.

Following immediately after, "Saviour's Here" is a Hillsong-esque track that is sure to find its way into churches in the future. This upbeat, contemporary track is a celebration that God is always with us, while "Stars In The Sky" (co-wrriten with Chris August) surrenders to the matchless power of God. This song definitely has potential as a future radio single. The piano driven "What Love Is This" evokes a sense of sadness, as it speaks of the incredible depth of God's love as well as thanking Him for paying the ultimate sacrifice. This song is a must learn for any piano player!

"Run To You (I Need You)" picks up the pace, as it speaks of drawing closer to God and the need for Him in everything we do, while "Rise" speaks of praising God with all that we have because He has won the battle. Kari also brings a cover of "Love Came Down" to the table, a song recently made popular by Seventh Day Slumber on their new album The Anthem of Angels. Though it doesn't have the same electricity, Kari's serene vocals make it an amazing cover!

Approaching the end of the album, "We Exalt Your Name (featuring Matt Maher)" is a simple track of praise to God. The vocals of Matt Maher are brought to the foreground, which makes for the perfect combination! The purely piano track "Here" closes the album with a poignant reminder that God will always be by our side and we can find rest under the shadow of His wings.

Kari Jobe's new album Where I Find You elevates her music to the next level, both sonically and thematically. Piano keys, strings, guitars and booming drums amplify the worship experience that brings you into the presence of God. Fans of artists such as Darlene Zschech, Chris Tomlin and Hillsong will enjoy this tranquil collection of songs that immerse you in His peace and love. Where I Find You is one of the top worship albums of the year!

Rating:
Genre: Praise & Worship
Release Date: January 24th, 2012
Record Label: Sparrow Records

Top 3 Songs: 
1. We Are
2. Find You On My Knees
3. Steady My Heart

Track Listing:
1. Steady My Heart
2. We Are
3. One Desire
4. Find You On My Knees
5. Saviour's Here
6. Stars In The Sky
7. What Love Is This
8. Run To You (I Need You)
9. Rise
10. Love Came Down
11. We Exalt Your Name (feat. Matt Maher)
12. Here