Michael Robert

Most artists work, pray, and toil over their albums, crafting them into works of art that reflect their heart and their lives. Never has this been more true than in the case of worship artist Michael Robert whose extensive resume (including opening dates for Skillet and The Kry) preceeds this, his debut release. Though he was heavily inundated in the industry in his early twenties, Robert took years off to raise a family and establish a successful business. Now, he steps back into the music world with his first solo album, after developing a style borne from years of leading worship in local churches.

First single “Here I stand”, which hit radio in early 2009, highlights his distinct vertical style and powerful vocal. Fans of Casting Crowns will easily connect with the comfortable acoustic guitar/keyboard anchoring of the song. Vocally, Robert falls squarely alongside Todd Agnew, with a slight grittiness coolly leveled out by superb female backing vocals by Leanne Azevedo. Second track “We Bring You Honor” starts with pitch-perfect harmonies, bolstered by a jaunty backing by the band, and lovely echoes from female vocalists on the chorus. “I Come into Your Presence” continues the winning triad, with a smart guitar opener, tasteful Hammond B3 accents, and its ultra-singable chorus. It could easily find a home in churches nationwide, which is exactly where Robert hopes it ends up, having already started a nationwide church tour.

“Purify Me”, the record’s second radio single, which dropped in April 2009, has hit the charts running, coming in at #25 nationwide. The lilting piano and solid vocal make it easy to see why the track has made it’s mark along with its worshipful chorus, “Purify my lips with Your coal of fire/ Lord give me Your desires/ Make me like You, In all I say and do/ Change my heart, today I make a new start/ Purify Me”. Based on Psalm 9, “The Lord Reigns Forever” takes a brilliant turn for Robert, utilizing a jazz-influenced saxophone and another stellar vocal from backing vocalist Leanne Azevedo. Final ballad “My Strength And Shield” aptly wraps up an album that combines elite production from Grammy-winning Ron Davis (Darlene Zschech, Hillsong), a solid band, and strong lyrics.

There’s sure to be more to come from this talented artist.

Tagged as: I Come Into Your Presence, Michael Robert

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