SHE DARED TO BE BRAVE

After three studio albums and one live album, Nichole Nordeman is still able to capture her audience with insightful lyrics with her fourth studio label “Brave.” Still filled with her alternative pop sound and distinctive voice, Nichole takes chances with this album. There’s always risk with taking a chance in music, but she seems to embrace it. It doesn’t matter if it succeeds or fails. She’s willing to try. And that’s being brave.

From the beginning, Nichole succeeds with the title track “Brave.” It’s a catchy tune with a pop feel. It tells the tale of being brave for Jesus and not being ashamed of the blood. The song that follows is by far one of the best on the album. “What If” confronts the skeptic’s questions of Jesus. The skeptic states, “Jesus might have been a just a great guy.” But Nichole answers, “what if there’s more, what if there’s hope.” The lyrics, musical arrangements, and Nichole’s vocals make this a song that strengthens a believer’s faith.

Another great track is “Lay It Down.” The difficulty of laying down one’s will to God is the theme. And how holding on the will can become a burden, but once the burden is given to God the pieces fall into place. The album is complimented with songs “Someday”, “Live”, and “Real to Me.” While those songs are great, Nichole’s version of “Gotta Serve Somebody” is not the best. However, she tries to make the song her own.

This album is full of chances and great songs. It’s a slight departure from her previous work, but still an outstanding effort. It’s definitely an album that Nichole can be proud of and the audience will enjoy.