Change Your World

Editorial Reviews
From CCM Magazine -- Subscribe Now!
When you're a kid, you're not necessarily looking for art in the music you choose. You want something you can enjoy listening to, that you can share with your friends without being ridiculed. Change Your World is something for the kid in all of us, because, more than any album he's made before, Michael W. Smith has delivered a supremely fun album, with layered melodies and harmonies of the highest caliber. Co-produced by Smith with Mark Heimermann (the co-producer of Lisa Bevill's oh-so sweet debut My Freedom), it would be easy to describe Change Your World as The Big Picture with big background vocals; easy, but unfair.

While both albums possess a fiery pop rush (andThe Big Picture still sounds good, six years later), Picture was a bit of a dark album (for Smith), more like he worked too hard on it; and Smitty's ongoing theme of "self esteem" sounded more like the urgings of a high school coach "don't just run, run faster."

Change Your World is still about spiritual and emotional healing through godly self-esteem, and about finding friends that affirm you in your value system but this time it all feels so much more natural. In "Picture Perfect," Smith sings what could have been your basic, wholesome high school love song, but writers Smith and long-time co-writer Wayne Kirkpatrick head for the charming chorus, "You don't have to be picture perfect/To be in my world/You don't have to be picture perfect/To fit the frame."

Smith and Kirkpatrick then come from the other side with "Somebody Love Me," as Smith sings from the perspective of someone who feels unloved: "Its like wanting to sing/But needing a song/When will I hear the music playing." To the songwriters credit, they don't attempt to answer the problem with a cheap phrase or with God loves you, that's enough. Loneliness is real, and Smiths sympathy is refreshing.

Though Change Your World isn't a banner-waving platform, Smiths faith is still integral to his music: "Give It Away" and "Cross of Gold" are both clear statements of where his foundation lies. The former is an anthem that should do well on Christian radio, with its conclusion, "Love isn't love until you give it away." And "Cross of Gold" could very well be the focal point of the whole album: musically, because its a solid jam; lyrically, because it calls the holy rollers out on the carpet "Is it a flame/Is it a passion or is it a game/Religion in fashion." In the bridge, electronic whispers float over the music, "Is it decoration or proclamation? For some it's just something to wear around your neck it means a lot more than that to me."

There's also a duet with Amy Grant "Somewhere Somehow," which may confuse some. It's a song about distant loves, a kind of romantic equivalent to "Friends." And then there's another love, the spunky "I Wanna Tell the World," which Smith wrote for his wife (with help from writers Heimermann and dc Talks Toby McKeehan).

The big finale, though, is a fresh look at "Friends," which is celebrating 10 years. While the first recording, primitive by comparison, may accent the wistfulness of parting friends, the new recording is a big sounding anthem that will no doubt become a tear-jerker for a whole new arena of fans.

When someone has as much to lose as Smith, its exciting to see him make a project this fun and natural. Some fans may pass on this one Lord bless 'em, they don't just want the seed, they wasn't all the fertilizer too but Change Your World could certainly plant the seed of the Gospel with listeners everywhere.

And, just as importantly, here's an album by a Christian that you can play for any of your friends. Because, when you're a kid, you don't want art, you want something to listen to and it could change your world. -- Chris Well (c) 1992 CCM Communications, Inc.

Change Your World, Music, Michael W. Smith, Adult Contemporary, CCM, Christian Rock, Contemporary Christian Music, Pop, Religious / Contemp. Christian

Average customer rating:

My brother is now adicted to this CD

Smitty's creative peak!

Every song a winner

Change Your World by Michael W. Smith

My First Impression of MWS!

Change Your World
Michael W. Smith
Manufacturer: Reunion
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Christian Rock | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music
General | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music
Christian Contemporary Music | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music
Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music
General | Adult Contemporary | Pop | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Go West Young Man

I'll Lead You Home

Live the Life

I 2 (Eye)

The Big Picture

ASIN: B0000004QU
Release Date: 1993-03-01

Tracks:

Picture Perfect
Love One Another
I Will Be Here For You
Color Blind
Somewhere Somehow
Cross Of Gold
Out Of This World
Somebody Love Me
Give It Away
I Wanna Tell The World
Friends

Customer Reviews:

My brother is now adicted to this CD.......2006-10-27

I got this CD after seeing/hearing the "Somebody love me" music video from another music site. Something about that song gripped me so hard and I had to find it and get, probably because the lyrics are a personal cry from my own heart. This is the only CD of MWS with that song on it, so I got it. So glad I did. I love the CD, and my 12 year old brother heard me listening to it, and instantly got adicted. His favorite songs are "Cross of Gold", "I will be here for you", and "Picture Perfect. I have created a monster and now we are both MWS fans.

Smitty's creative peak!.......2004-04-01

To put it very simply; this is musically the best MWS album. There's so much happening in the music and I still to this day find new stuff in there, it's amazing. This CD really was "contemporary" or actually ahead of it's time when it came out. Given the right promotion this album could have been an even bigger mainstream hit than "Go west young man". Oh, well...
Lyrically there have been more inspired albums, but still Wayne Kirkpatrick is doing a great job.

Let's hope and pray Michael's upcoming mainstream pop album on JIVE Records will be in this vein. Maybe a producer like Dallas Austin could update Michael's sound a bit, it has become VERY adult comteporary as of recent. Less guitars, piano and strings would do him good. :-)

Every song a winner.......2002-06-29

Is there a bad song on this album? I can't find one. What I do find are a lot of stellar, not-to-be-missed tracks like "Picture Perfect" and "I Will Be Here For You". The somewhat overlooked "Cross Of Gold" carries an insanely catchy chorus and important message, while "Somewhere Somehow" represents a beautiful duet with Amy Grant. The album also features an updated and improved version of the classic song, "Friends". How can you go wrong?

Change Your World by Michael W. Smith.......2000-06-15

This is by far Michael's most awsome album. With just one listen you will become addicted to his music! I was instantly turned on to Modern Christian music when first hearing him. I even went to one of his concerts at the time, in Virginia, AND IT TURNED OUT TO BE THE TAPEING OF THE LIVE CONCERT FOR THE VIDEO OF THIS ALBUM! Michael W. Smith is truely an inspiration, and this is just one of a number of his great efforts (and certaily his BEST! ) A MUST BUY!

My First Impression of MWS!.......2000-03-31

The Change Your World album was the first time I heard MWS and his music. I was very well impressed with his song writing days with Amy Grant and thought I'd have a go with this album. I was happy when I was through listening to the album. It had a good message and sound; good actually for the secular music world. I do have to admit that because the album has a VERY pop sound to it, it's not hard to date the album's music style (as it's on the verge of being out dated with the times) with it's Chicago band sounding guitar rythms and synthetic beats, etc., but honestly, it still doesn't make the album "less" enjoyable as it loses no flavor and never will. I'm not too much into Christian music (as Amy Grant, Jars of Clay and MWS is all I listen to in the Christian market) but his music is worth the purchases. I haven't been unhappy with any of his releases since then.

Average customer rating:

Great Praise and Worship
Just Wonderful...Again

Change Your World
Darlene Zschech
Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

Gospel | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

Christian Contemporary Music | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

Praise & Worship | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Kiss of Heaven
Extravagant Worship: Songs of Darlene Zschech
God He Reigns: Live Worship from Hillsong Church
Shout to the Lord: Platinum, Vol. 2
Faithful

ASIN: B000BKDOEI
Release Date: 2005-11-08

Tracks:

You Are Here
Miracle
Caotured
Call Upon His Name
You Know My Name
Never Give Up
Change Your world
Where Would I Be
Glorify Your Name
Sing Over Me
You Are Holy
Agnus Dei

Customer Reviews:

Great Praise and Worship.......2006-03-25

i actually got this album by accident, i ordered the dual DVD "God He Reigns" and the cd from Rueben Morgan and some one at the delivery made a mistake and instead of the one from Rueben's i received this.

at first i wasn't so pleased because, you know, i didn't ordered it. but then after a few days i decided to give this album a chance and WOW! i was able to be moved inside of me to pray to God and Worship Him whyle lisening to it (The album).

Very good music, excellent lyrics and of course hugely annoited.

I believe that this woman is running her life in the path that God chose for her to be in, she has been a blessing for so many Christians and also to just music lovers. I believe that God purposes are being achieved through her work and this album is a testimony of that.

Buy it, enjoy it, live it.

Just Wonderful...Again.......2006-01-05

This is Ps. Darlene Zschech's second solo album. She continues to increase in the anointing! She is so talented and Gifted by God to sing His praises! Here is a rundown of what I love about each song (because I know that I like when others do that for me on other CD reviews)

1. You are Here 5/5 - mid tempo ballad. very pretty string arangement. The chorus continues to build to a beautiful creshendo toward the end. A truly wonderful reminder of God phenominal Greatness and that He is mine and He is with me!

2. Miracle 4/5 - the first single released in Australia from this album. Upbeat and produced by one of the members of the Parachute Band (a worship team from NZ) really catchy.

3. Captured 5/5 - ballad. GORGEOUS. The lyrics are sheer poetry. "I need you more than the morning needs the light" This is my heartbeat for God and she captures that need for God for all of us!

4. Call upon His Name 6/5 - Yes! It is that GREAT. This is my favourite song on the album. Ballady Hymn. I see praise dancers and orchestras and the Throne Room!!!

5. You KNow my Name 4/5 - up tempo. What a wonderful thing to sing about. Our phenominal God and the fact that this Creator of the Universe knows my name. ALso talks about her longing to know Him and be with Him in His phenominal presence

6. Never Give Up 3.5/5 - Really nice. Up beat. Creative. Just not my style. Musically and sentimentally really awesome.

7. Change Your World 5/5 - First single in US. Music Video on her website. Gorgeous melody and lyics. "I'll forever hear you say, I am your child, Please will you love me, Wont you stay...I live to change your world!" Wow...powerful! Check out her website hoperwanda.com

8. Where would I be 5/5 - ballad. Where would we be without His love? Too true! really beautiful melody again!

9. Glorify Your Name 4/5 - beautiful worship song that was also recorded on Hillsongs Live album "For All Youve Done".

10. Sing over me 4.5/5 - I really love this one. The thought of God singing over me the way that I sing to Him, but BETTER! Mid tempo.

11. You are Holy 5/5 - "...at times I hold my breath and tremble and behold your majesty...in the morning I will seek you...in the evening I will love you..." AMEN!!!

12. Agnus Dei 5/5 - LOVE THIS ARRANGEMENT! You need to do something with this song (in my humble opinion) if recording it because it so well loved and so popular already. Great ending for the album

Basically, she is awesome and anointed and a true God-lover. It comes across every note that she sings. If you buy this album, you will be truly blessed.

Average customer rating:

Mixed feelings
Your love for this superb collection will be here to stay...
He's done it again
Absolutely 'S WONDERFUL!
A beautiful 2 disc CD-another hit for Michael

The Michael Feinstein Anthology

Manufacturer: Elektra / Wea
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Jazz | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Musical Theater | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

General | Pop | Styles | Music

General | Oldies | Pop | Styles | Music

Traditional Pop | Oldies | Pop | Styles | Music

General | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music

Nostalgia | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music

Movie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Styles | Music

General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music

Traditional Vocal Pop | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music

General | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Romance on Film/Romance on Broadway
Hopeless Romantics
Isn't It Romantic
Nice Work If You Can Get It: Songs by the Gershwins
Michael & George (Feinstein Sings Gershwin)

ASIN: B000065DVH
Release Date: 2002-05-21

Tracks:

Nice Work If You Can Get It
Isn't It Romantic
Swinging On A Star
Ask Me Again
Rhode Island Is Famous For You
'S Wonderful
Wonder Why
Too Marvelous For Words
Where Do You Start
Theme From The Bad And The Beautiful
Easy To Love
Alexander's Ragtime Band
Who Are You Now?
You're An Education
You Are There
Sophisticated Swing
Love Can Change The Stars
Come Out, Come Out Wherever You Are
Half Of April (Most Of May)
Marianne
They Can't Take That Away From Me
I Love A Piano

Tracks:

That's Entertainment
My Favorite Year
Ten Feet Off The Ground (With Rosemary Clooney)
I Never Felt Better
Someone To Watch Over Me
Kiss Her Now
The Ugly Bug Ball
For You, For Me, Forever More
The Mole People
And So To Bed
You're All The World To Me
Old Friend
Isn't It A Pity (with Rosemary Clooney)
Pattisserie
Open Your Eyes
For Love Alone
I Won't Send Roses/Time Heals Everything
Get Out And Get Under The Moon (with Page Cavanaugh)
My Romance
Love Is Here To Stay
Violin (with Liza Minnelli)

Amazon.com

The line between evangelist and entertainer has always been somewhat indistinct. But as showcased on this 43-track, double-disc collection culled from his '87-'96 recordings for Elektra/Nonesuch/Atlantic, Michael Feinstein's dedication to spreading the gospel of the American song often blurs it beyond recognition. While the singer's pedigree for the task is impeccable (a long-term stint as Ira Gershwin's assistant and early career sponsorship by Liza Minnelli), his interpretations often succeed by playing off a tense axis of fervent emotionalism and a joyous sense of irreverence.

If his readings of romantic standards can sometimes tend toward the precious, they're often balanced here by sheer dramatic power and telling insights ("Isn't It Romantic" fairly bristles with ironic chauvinism) and a few loopy curves ("The Mole People," the Sherman Brothers' "The Ugly Bug Ball," and the previously unreleased "Rhode Island Is Famous for You"). Feinstein's dedicated song archaeology is also showcased on several gems: "Violin," a duet with Liza Minnelli; "My Favorite Year," a rejected ballad for the film of that name; the sublime "lost" Gershwin classic "Ask Me Again."

Sprinkled with live performances (the forum where Feinstein's talents seem most energized) and studio outtakes and featuring a lengthy print interview with the singer, the set chronicles both the pioneering efforts of one of pop music's most successful revivalists and, crucially, the cream of his beloved American songwriters, from stalwarts Gershwin, Berlin, and Porter to later legends like Herman, Styne, Lane, Martin, and Mercer. --Jerry McCulley

Album Description

The definitive collection of performances by the Grammy nominated singer features 43 tracks from 14 albums released by Elektra, Elektra Nonesuch, and Atlantic labels from 1987-1996. Plus 8 previously unreleased live tracks only available here 'Rhode Island is Famous For You', 'S Wonderful', 'Alexander's Ragtime Band', 'I Love A Piano', 'Patisserie', 'Get Out And Get Under The Moon' (with Page Cavanaugh), 'Love Is Here To Stay' & 'Violin' (with Liza Minnelli). 2 Digipacks housed in a slipcase with a booklet. Rhino Records. 2002.

Customer Reviews:

Mixed feelings.......2005-10-05

This album has some GREAT songs on it; sophisticated swing being one of my favorites. However many of the other songs are too operatic and lame. I give three stars but this album is definatly worth it just for some of the better songs.

Your love for this superb collection will be here to stay..........2002-07-18

The magnificently talented Michael Feinstein has made one wonderful album after another for nearly two decades. Now that Elektra and Rhino have put together this anthology, I am blown away by the versatility and diversity in Feinstein's recorded output. Such amazing rare gems, combined with the most beloved favorites in the history of American Popular Song. Assembled with wit, intelligence, and obvious affection on the part of the record company, this set is a keeper. You'll love it!

He's done it again.......2002-07-15

Is there anything this man can't sing? This collection is so varied as to be the definitive collection of songs for any occassion.

This is perfect background music for a dinner party for a whole group but especially for two. Light, romantic and just gorgeous. You just can't go wrong when Michael Feinstein is your musical choice.

Way to go Michael, you've done it again!

Absolutely 'S WONDERFUL!.......2002-06-10

There are very few contemporary performers who can hold their own with the truly great interpreters of American popular song. Michael Feinstein is truly the ONLY performer of the "younger" generation who really understands what these songs are all about. His incredible knowledge of this music, and his enthusiasm and passion for it have fueled his career. Rhino Records has done a truly outstanding job of putting together an anthology that exemplifies why Mr. Feinstein has become so beloved by audiences around the world. The packaging is excellent, and filled with interesting photos and background information about many of the selections.

This collection not only contains all the favorites one would expect, but a neat group of surprises too. I especially love the duets with people like Liza Minnelli and Rosemary Clooney, and the various collaborative efforts with songwriters like Jule Styne and Burton Lane accompanying Michael at the piano.

This collection is a classic to be treasured. Bravo Michael!
Bravo Rhino!

A beautiful 2 disc CD-another hit for Michael.......2002-06-09

I have every CD Michael has ever made and this is by far one of the best ones because of Michael's range in singing and his wonderful singing voice. I love his duets with Rosemary Clooney and Liza Minelli. He is a wonderful performer on this double CD and am looking foward to the next CD.

Average customer rating:

The String Quartet Tribute to Clapton

Manufacturer: Vitamin Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

General | Rock | Styles | Music

General | Compilations | Rock | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music

Tributes | Pop | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

String Quartet Tribute to the Rolling Stones
The String Quartet Tribute to the Beatles
The String Quartet Tribute to Queen
The String Quartet Tribute to Elton John
The String Quartet Tribute to the Eagles

ASIN: B00008NGDV
Release Date: 2003-04-08

Tracks:

Motherless Children
Layla
Bell Bottom Blues
Wonderful Tonight
Blues Power
Tears In Heaven
Sunshine Of Your Love
Presence Of The Lord
Let It Rain
Change The World
Sea Of Change

Product Description

1. Motherless Children
2. Layla
3. Bell Bottom Blues
4. Wonderful Tonight
5. Blues Power
6. Tears In Heaven
7. Sunshine Of Your Love
8. Presence Of The Lord
9. Let It Rain
10. Change The World
11. Sea Of Change (Original Composition)

Format: CD

Change Your World
Average customer rating:
Change Your World
Michael W. Smith
Manufacturer: Geffen Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music
Christian Contemporary Music | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music
General | Rock | Styles | Music
General | Adult Contemporary | Pop | Styles | Music
ASIN: B00004SM3B
Release Date: 1992-09-01

Tracks:

Picture Perfect
Love One Another
I Will Be Here for You
Color Blind
Somewhere Somehow - Amy Grant, Michael W. Smith
Cross of Gold
Out of This World
Somebody Love Me
Give It Away
I Wanna Tell the World
Friends

Average customer rating:

You Can Change Your World

ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Pop | Styles | Music

General | Pop | Indie Music | Stores | Music
ASIN: B00009NRO8
Release Date: 2003-07-01

Tracks:

Like Me & You, Featuring Guest Vocalist-Al Denson
Light Your Candle, Featuring Guest Vocalists-The Sound & Little J Xavier
Do The Right Thing, Featuring Guest Vocalist-The Northams
Sharing Brings Happiness, Featuring Guest Vocalist-Solveigh Henderson
Follow Your Heart, Featuring Guest Vocalist-Tiffany Coburn
Boomerang!, Featuring Guest Vocalist-American Kids
Workin', Featuring Guest Vocalist-Legacy Five
Try, Try, Try, Featuring Guest Vocalist-Tony Oller
A Mile In Your Shoes, Featuring Guest Vocalist-Kathy Wampler
Live Your Dream, Featuring Guest Vocalist-Jeff Fair

Album Description

Finally...something positive for kids to listen to! These Karacter Kidz tunes will have your kids singing all day long. Each song reinforces a character trait in a fun and exciting way that is sure to keep them movin'! With state-of-the-art production and a variety of music styles, everyone in the family is sure to enjoy these projects. Karacter Kidz music is more than just great music for today--it builds character for tomorrow!

Average customer rating:

Beautifully understated drama
More beautiful music than we'd any right to expect.
Two short beautiful, somber lyric operas.

Nicolae Bretan: Golem and Arald

Manufacturer: Nimbus Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Operettas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music
ASIN: B0000037FS
Release Date: 1995-09-05

Tracks:

Golem: Intro - PO Moldova, Iasi/Cristian Mandeal
Golem: Leave Me Alone, Golem, Leave Me! - Alexandru Agache
Golem: I Looked Deep Into Her Eyes... - Alexandru Agache
Golem: I Cannot Change You Into A Man - Tamas Daroczy
Golem: I Formed You Of Clay... - Tamas Daroczy
Golem: Under The Earth, You Do Not Feel The Cold - Alexandru Agache
Golem: Did You Call Me? - Dan Zancu
Golem: No! I Won't Tear It Out! - Alexandru Agache
Golem: Why Don't You Give Me That Talisman? - Alexandru Agache
Golem: Peace To You, Dream Of The Human Mind - Sounds Of The Autumn Wind
Arald: Prologue- Arald On His Charger Sweeps... - Dan Zancu
Arald: To You, O Timeless Seer, Across The World I Ride... - Ionel Voineag
Arald: You Were Still But A Child - Alexandru Agache
Arald: My People Ceased Their March... - Ionel Voineag
Arald: Out Of The Heart Of Earth Let Man The Dead Awake... - Alexandru Agache
Arald: Come, Arald, Your Sweet Brow Against My Bosom Lean... - Sanda Sandru
Arald: Interlude - PO Moldova, Iasi/Cristian Mandeal
Arald: Lost Of All Eternity Within The Tomb's Constraint - Alexandru Agache

Customer Reviews:

Beautifully understated drama.......2005-06-10

Despite a lack of big arias, Golem is a good opera. The singers in this production are very effective in conveying the inner tensions of their characters. Although there is little physical movement, the drama of Rabbi Judah Loeb confronting the monster he has created is intense.
The scenic cantata, Arald, is Bretan's masterpiece. It is a lyrical evocation of memory, despair, and resignation. Arald puts the listener through all of the emotional upheaval of Das Lied von der Erde in half of the time. This performance of Arald is as affecting as the best performances of Das Lied von der Erde that I have heard.

More beautiful music than we'd any right to expect........2001-01-25

The Transylvanian composer Bretan had one of the grimmer lives of any notable composer - his wife's family were murdered in Auschwitz; his refusal in post-war Romania to become a Communist led to his silencing - but you wouldn't know it from either of these operas.

They are serious and solemn enough. 'Golem' takes the old story of a rampaging Frankenstein-type monster and turns it into a melancholy dialogue about life, science, creation, family. 'Arald', with its hero supplicating the Seer of the Underworld to resuscitate his dead love, forswears doomy Gothic in favour of more metaphysical musings.

From a dramatic point of view, both works are static. Musically, however, they are gloriously reminiscent of mid-period Verdi - bountifully melodic, rapturously sad - with an Eastern European flavour. The fact that an opera composer in the mid-20th century dared even write a TUNE is reason enough to rejoice.

Two short beautiful, somber lyric operas........1999-05-07

"Golem" is a one-act opera about the legendary clay man created by the Rabbi of Prague. The poignant libretto is by the composer. The music is beautiful and lyric, but has no memorable tunes. Stylistically, it is a bit like Rimsky-Korsakoff's operatic writing. "Arald" is not really an opera but a scenic cantata. It tells of the despair of the khan of the Avars over the loss of his wife. The gloom of both text and music put me off at first. On second hearing, I loved it! It is more tuneful than "Das Lied von der Erde" and has none of the dissonance of Bartok's "Duke Bluebeard's Castle", but the mood is similar.