Matthew West is another newcomer to CCM, squeezing the release of his debut solo record in before the close of the 2003 year. Happy is a unique alt-pop record that couldn't have been given a better title. West's vocal styles vary quite greatly as his similarities range from Bebo Norman to Aaron Spiro to Daily Planet. Musically, Happy offers rock-glazed upbeat pop with boisterous moments like the title track and more laid back ones like the melodic "The Turnaround."
For the most part, West isn't extraordinarily innovative or different, but he injects personality and heart into his recordings, helping them to stand out from the rest in the pop/rock genre. Matthew West's debut Happy may not be the best release from a new artist in 2003, but it's a promising one. I can see West having a lot more in the coming years of his career in CCM, so keep an eye out for this elated young man.
- PReviewed 12/2/03; Review date: 1/13/04, written by John DiBiaseRecord Label: Sparrow Records / Universal South
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Jonathan Cain untitled EP [The Fuel]
