If you're looking to fall neck-deep in a river of christian ballads, look elsewhere. Though it has its required few, The Big Picture is simply just a great 80's easy listening/rock album. With the exception of "Tearing Down The Wall" (which seems to be merely a space-filler, a poor instrumental, and the sole reason I couldn't raise my rating to a "5"), each song is a real treat to the ears. There is so much going on in every track, and it all melds together perfectly to produce an energetic, yet beautifully melodic chorus of synth sounds and strategically-placed fills. If Smith had not gone through his electronic phase (like so many 70's and 80's artists do), I believe his best work might not have ever surfaced. The Big Picture is proof that "overproduction" can sound great!
One of his better albums, but probably not his best. This is a good example of mid 80s CCM, pop with lots of keyboards. Lots. Don't know if everything is put through the synth but lots of electronic experimentation. If you like preppy music like MJ during his Thriller heyday, then you might appreciate this peppy little bit of encouragement. The vocals are as smooth as they come and the percussion has decent variety. Lamu is a cool revelation of paradise. Old Enough encourages right decisions. Dream is visionary. Rocketown compares the party scene across two vastly cultures. Motions is a cry for sincerity that rails against hypocrisy. While many didn't like the instrumental Tearin' Down the Wall, I always thought it was creative and added variety to a pop album. But, even with the classics here, it You're Alright that proves the MWS can rock as well. Sure there are some ballads, though less worship music here, it is this song that was initially surprising but earned my serious praise.Read full review
Its good tofinally have the CD as I try not to play old tapes! This album is an interesting look at early sampling and digital fx as well as top notch musicians like Tony Levin on Stick.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
I bought this album many years ago in a cheapy bin at a Christian book store. I was blown away by the quality of music, of musicians, of production, of variety of song styles and themes... in all, I found this to be a treasure. Pretty well all songs jump out well in this CD from the first "Lamu" to the last "You're Alright". A loud and lively album. Lots of musical and thematic hooks in all songs. The only disappointment on this album is the last cut, the quiet piano 'outro'. It just doesn't belong. I can see why they wanted it there - a sort of reflective, quiet fade-out but... nope... doesn't work. I'd like to give it 4 1/2 but the rating system won't allow it. It's way better than a 4 so I have to give it a 5 which, to me, isn't hard at all to do.
Some of Michael W. Smith's best early work. Great album; songs are well thought out. Produced well and it's a fun album that will last for years. Grab a copy when you can.
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