Mention the name Nichole Nordeman around the people I work with and instantly faces light up. She is known for beautiful vocals, amazing lyrics and piano-driven folk/pop. That is what has awarded her recognition, but now she makes a slight turn for her third, and what I consider her best, record.
The album opens on an upbeat note with a song that is a big departure for Nichole musically. "Holy," the first single, is one of the most catchy, worshipful, beautifully sung songs to come out in a long time. Nichole's beautiful voice stands out in this song, but what stands out the most is the musical change. While most of her previous songs were very heavily influenced by folk/pop and piano, this song steps it up a notch, and the result is a wonderful song.
Of course, as always, there are several songs that have the lyrics she is known for. "Mercies New," hence the song title, talks about God's mercies being new every morning. And "Never Loved You More" talks about how many blessings God pours on us every day and how wonderful and gratifying it is.
The aforementioned "Holy" is one of the stand-out tracks for me, but perhaps the best song on the record is "I Am." This beautiful song features some of the most outstanding, piercing lyrics I've ever heard.
When I was weak, unable to speak
Still I could call you by name
Shepherd, savior, pasture maker
Hold onto my hand
And you said "I am."
Nichole put a quote in her first album, "Wide Eyed" from Grace Hartigan. It read "I cannot expect even my own art to provide all of the answers, only to hope it keeps asking the right questions." It is a fitting quote for any song by Nichole. She causes us to ponder, reflect and soul-search after just a four-minute song. And her new album is no exception. "Woven and Spun" stands out like a single light in complete darkness. It is lyrically stunning and musically amazing. Be sure to get your copy on September 24, 2002.