Michael W. Smith is like the Sting of the Contemporary Christian world. He's very talented, maintains his popularity with the youth, and has consistently sold many albums over the last three decades. In 1988, Michael had released four albums prior to this album, but this one was very unique since it provided a new sound that appealed more to the youth than previous projects.

The album begins with the very easy-going "Hand of Providence," complete with harmonicas. It talks about how we have divine intervention. The next song, "Secret Ambition" was well known at the time due to it's unforgettable video which displayed the life of Christ. "On the Other Side" is a great song that was probably one of the least played songs on the album, and it remains one of my favorite MWS songs. It's just a nice little song with an outstanding chorus.

"All You're Missing is Heartache" is pure late-80s pop, although it's still classic MWS material. It contains background vocals from Michael Sweet of Stryper, but his vocals aren't necessarily easily recognizable. "I Miss the Way" is one of Michael's most emotional songs ever written. It describes the way it feels to watch a friend or loved one slide away from their faith, reminiscing of days when they had a passion for Christ.

"Live and Learn" begins with some very creative mixing that gives the illusion of time passing through. The pop song has an unforgettable chorus and is likely to be a track you'll want to revisit again and again. "I Hear Leesha" is song that will pull at the heartstrings as it focuses on how Leesha is heard singing from heaven and how she is remembered. "Help You Find Your Way" can easily be compared to some of the songs from Richard Marks, a famous pop artist of the 80s. Fortunately, once we hear Michael's voice, the resemblance is no longer linked. "Ashton" is a musical that will make the listener immediately have thoughts of placement for a movie soundtrack. "The Throne" is a good tune, but it doesn't flow as well as the majority of the I 2 (Eye) album. "Pray for Me" is likely to be compared to MWS's most famous song of all time, "Friends." Don't dismiss this song as a "Friends part II" though. It's quite a beautiful song, and I actually find it more enjoyable than "Friends." It talks about two friends who must separate and go a different route in life, "Pray for me and I'll pray for you/ Pray that love will bring us back around… again."

I 2 (Eye) is one of Michael W. Smith's finest achievements, and any fan of this artist will find it difficult not to like this unique moment in this man's incredible career.

- Review date: 7/30/07, written by Wayne Myatt for Jesusfreakhideout.com