Jonathan Butler does it again

I must admit I'm an unabashed Jonathan Butler fan. As far as I'm concerned, he could sing the phone book and make it entertaining. I have seen him live in concert and enjoyed "Live in South Africa" immensely. I really appreciated "The Worship Project" for its purity, simplicity and heart. I told him of my appreciation of that album at his Rendezvous All-Stars concert back in 2006, in Memphis. At that time the Gospel Goes Classical was in the pipeline and although Mr. Butler's contributions were good, I was left feeling a little short changed by the experience. "Brand New Day", however has exceeded expectations. Although lyrically not ploughing any new territory, muscially this is a more varied project moving from praise into worship and with a much higher level of production. The variety of styles helps to keep the listenber engaged - it's great to work out to, by the way...
The songs aren't entirely self composed, in fact Jonathan reworks the old standby "O Magnify the Lord" and refreshes it with a latin feel. The biggest stylistic shift is the collaboration with Israel Houghton on "Gonna Lift You Up" which really rocks out! The duet with his daughter Jodie, called "Mercy" is one of a number of very sweet worship songs that could easily be adapted for most congregations. The final two selections are among my favorites; " I Believe" (not to be confused with another track bearing the same title on his "Surrender" album) is a sumptious ballad replete with a gorgeous string arrangement, beautifully sung. while the final track is another simple yet heartfelt plea to "Tell me (Do you still love Jesus)" accompanied by just Jonathan's tasty electric guitar - once again reminding us that he is a very accomplished jazz guitarist.
If I have one fear, it is that this project, like his previous one will not get the promotion or the attention it deserves within the Christian marketplace. Make no mistake - Jonathan Butler has taken it to the next level with this quality release.