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
Elevation Rhythm Announces the WASHED TourTue, 16 Jun 2026 17:40:00 EST |
Skillet's "Monster" Surpasses 4 Billion Streams Amid Sold-Out European TourTue, 16 Jun 2026 17:10:00 EST |
Nationwide Theatrical Release of "Beyond Belief," feat. Petra's Music, Set for AugustTue, 16 Jun 2026 16:44:00 EST |
Kierra Sheard to Receive BMI Impact Award at 2026 BMI Trailblazers of Gospel Music AwardsTue, 16 Jun 2026 14:54:00 EST |
Bonnie Keen Pays Homage to Former Vocal Group with New Cover of Sting's Hit SongTue, 16 Jun 2026 14:50:00 EST |
IONA's First Five Studio Albums Coming to Vinyl in New Limited Edition Box SetMon, 15 Jun 2026 17:11:00 EST |
Special We The Kingdom Pop-Up Exhibit at The Museum of Christian and Gospel MusicMon, 15 Jun 2026 16:58:00 EST |
Click here All News Headlines |