Ever since the release of Matthew West’s acclaimed “Something to Say” project, I have been in high anticipation of this follow-up album, and over two and a half years later he is making it obvious that it was worth the wait. Camping out in a cabin for two months earlier this year for the sole purpose of escaping the world and writing songs, it was apparent that Matthew was going for something unique from the start, and I think he accomplished all he wanted and more with this collection.“The Story of Your Life” kicks off with an upbeat pop title track that certainly puts listeners in the right mood from the start, singing: “this is the story of your life, you decide how the rest is going to read.” The lead single “My Own Little World” comes next, and it begins a string of songs that highlight how we can make the changes that will ultimately change the story of our lives. A light R&B tinge flavors “One Less,” a feel-good song that features an adoption theme, as Matthew’s emotion-filled vocals sing “there’s one less broken heart in the world tonight.”
One thing that stands out here is the closeness of the songs. Matthew draws you right into the brokenness and forgiveness in all the situations he visits and the product is amazing. “Two Houses” could easily relate to foster kids or children with divorced parents, while “Family Tree” touches on the often overlooked topic of breaking out from your family’s past, or maybe just your own. Taking on subjects like depression and abuse, “Broken Girl” and “Reason for the World” are pieces that can’t be without mention and could touch anyone, even those who haven’t gone through the things it specifically brings up.
So even if you haven’t heard of Matthew West or aren’t a big fan of his music, this is one album you might want to take home with you. At least some of these songs are bound to speak and move you. I project this album as one of the best of the year in the Christian pop realm, and I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. Don’t pass it up. It just might help change the story of your life. ~ Christian Lingner
So even if you haven’t heard of Matthew West or aren’t a big fan of his music, this is one album you might want to take home with you. At least some of these songs are bound to speak and move you. I project this album as one of the best of the year in the Christian pop realm, and I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. Don’t pass it up. It just might help change the story of your life. ~ Christian Lingner
4 1/2 of 5 stars
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