20th April, 2007

JUSTIN MICHAEL  

Album: Michelle Tumes
Artist: Michelle Tumes
Label: Levantar Records, 2006.
Enhanced: No

In a word: Searching

"Vocally, Tumes is exceptional. The rhythms and melodies in her songs set her apart while the twists and turns give her music a wonderful edge of originality and make this disc worth a closer listen."

She’s an Aussie girl done good in the big US of A and she’s remained true to both her musical style and lyrical intent throughout her career. Here, we find Mrs Tumes, now on an independent label, still producing the lush Celtic textures and prayerful lyrics her worldwide fan base has come to know and love.

Michelle writes “to the listener, may you find God’s peace and overwhelming love for you amidst the music and imagery". With songs like the radio hit Domine (Lord God), Breakthrough, Lovely Day and Yearning, it is obvious to me that anyone could listen to this album, relate to the message in the music, and certainly be carried by the gentle beauty of the music. There are the trademark lush string sections, driving percussion and choral treatments.

There is often the feeling that this album may double as Tumes' prayer journal. Fair Weather speaks of God’s unchanging nature through all seasons while Far talks of feeling far from God and Gypsy Heart says "I cried an ocean today just to sail on rains of love; I have this homage to pay and it’s taking me where You are...You’re home for the gypsy heart". Other songs like Yearning and Breakthrough need no explanation.

Musically there will always be the Enya comparison, but I would go much further and put her in the same sentence as Rich Mullins. Her musical arrangements and lyrical intent is often reminiscent of the psalmists with expressions of praise in times of pain.

Vocally, Tumes is exceptional. The rhythms and melodies in her songs set her apart while the twists and turns give her music a wonderful edge of originality and make this disc worth a closer listen.

The album, it should also be noted, may serve as a useful learning tool for those of us short on Latin. Songs include Introit, Domine, and Caelum Infinitum, and there are handy explanations on each in the liner notes - nice.

I cannot say that this album will go on my high rotation list, but I can say I am intrigued by Tumes' approach - putting her faith journey in song and sharing its depth with such unique sounds. Put it on the chill-out CD rack at home.