"Here with You" by Beth Stalker

a Review by Amy Producer of Collected Sounds

Upon reading the press materials that came with this record, I was pretty sure I would not end up reviewing it. See, I don't care for religious music and seeing as Beth's other release (that was also sent to me) was called "Hallalujah, I Love Him So" I had my doubts.

But you know, I listen to everything I get. Everything. And much to my surprise, I like this record! (turns out that other record is covers of jazz standards).

Stalker's voice is rich and clear and sounds very nice singing these songs. It's got a bit of a country twinge to it, but not too much. The harmonies, especially on "Rest Your Spirit" are lovely.

I like that she added the acoustic version of four of these songs at the end of the CD. They're very pretty versions.

She has a knack for writing melodies that are appealing and quite radio-pop friendly. I can see her being a big hit on Christian radio stations right along side Mindy Smith and the like. This sounds like a major label release in many ways.

Posted on May 24, 2006