Customer Reviews

As I Am

5 star:		(28)
4 star:		(15)
3 star:		(5)
2 star:		(4)
1 star:		(4)

 

 

Tony Winning Kristin Chenoweth returned to the music world with her sophomore album "As I Am." This album is totally different from her debut album. "As I Am" is a collection of inspirational covors, and an original song written by Diane Warren. Kristin even includes one of her fan favorites "Taylor, The Latte Boy", which shows off her Musical Theater talents.

For those posting reviews saying they are disapointed in this album being inspirtional themed with a country feel - there is absolutely no exuse. Kristin made it very clear for a while now she would be doing an inspirational album with a country feel.

Kristin shows off her versatile talents on this wonderful album. The mood of the album is very uplifting. Kristin even gets to show off her opera talents on "Joyful, Joyful", and "Upon this Rock", which are incredible songs.

Overall, this is an incredible album. Kristin shows off her amazing voice on many tracks. I reccomend this album to everyone, even if you're not a fan of Christian music.

I first heard of Kristin Chenoweth when she won the Tony for her roll as Sally in "You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown." I quickly became a fan, so when I found out about this CD, I had to get it.

Taking a different path from her Broadway first CD, this CD focuses on songs of faith, reflecting Kristin's Christian beliefs. While some of her Broadway fans might not like that, I loved it.

The CD includes some classics, like "Because He Lives," "Joyful, Joyful," "Power" and "Just As I Am." Yes, these songs and hymns are familiar, but they're wonderfully handled here.

I was especially pleased to see covers of some of my favorite lesser known songs. "There Will Never be Another" is originally from Amy Grant's second CD. "Upon This Rock" first appeared on a Sandi Patty live CD. Both are wonderfully covered here. Of a more recent and popular note, she also covers Mercy Me's "Word of God Speak."

There were several songs I wasn't familiar with here. "It will be Me" is a great song on friendship. "Poor, Wayfaring Stranger" is an old spiritual, and I really liked it. "Abide in Me" appears to be a completely new song, and it's a great reminder of where our power really comes from, God.

The final track on here is "Taylor, the Latte Boy," another original song. It's a fun song about love at a coffee shop that fits Kristin's personality perfectly.

Some of her fans won't like the emphasis on her faith; I love it. This CD has already gotten lots of airplay since I got it, and I can see it getting lots more for a long time to come.

It saddens me to read some of these reviews. Some of you feel that Kristin has "let you down" because she has done a CD of inspirational songs and that she is becoming a conformist. God forbid anyone proclaim that they're a Christian these days! You feel this CD is not the "real" Kristin and she needs to go back to jazzy Broadway standards. It doesn't showcase her talent properly...blah, blah, blah...

On the contrary, I think this IS the real Kristin and this CD shows just how versatile she and her magnificent voice can be. If you've ever heard Sandi Patti sing "Upon This Rock," you know she has an incredible range. I, for one, didn't think there was anyone else who could sing that song, but not only does Kristin pay wonderful homage to Patti, she one-ups her by taking the song even higher at the end.

Yes, musicians make albums for their fans, but their albums are ultimately a reflection of themselves. I think this album is an incredible reflection of the beautiful person that Kristin is, both inside and out. And for those of you who won't buy this album because of the "Jesus" songs, it's your choice, but you'll be missing out on a terrific album.

Okay, 5 stars for talent, 1 star for music selection. And that one star is only because of "Taylor, the Latte Boy," which is a lot of fun. I respect the fact that Kristin chose to express her faith through music, but of all the music to pick, why this selection? It's dull, it certainly doesn't showcase her amazing voice, and many of the songs sound very similar to one another. I'm a huge fan of Chenoweth...I think I own almost every CD she's ever been in, and I saw WICKED just because of her. (Although I have to say that Menzel rocks, too!) I loved "Let Yourself Go," which has become a listening staple in my car, and I was so excited when she released this. The only song I really LOVE to listen to is the last track, "Taylor, the Latte Boy." I can't wait for her next album....as long as it has a little more "Kristin Pizzazz!!" :)

Prime Cuts: Upon This Rock, Borrowed Angels, The Song Remembers When

For artists to cross pollinate into other musical genres is not a recent provenance. Pop superstar Whitney Houston has had cut a gospel soundtrack with "The Preacher's Wife" and American Idol winner Rueben Studdard has just professed his faith on his sophomore offering "I Need an Angel." Hence, it is of no surprise for cabaret singer Kristin Chenoweth to grace us with an inspirational themed CD. Not only is this a contemporary Christian record, but it is by far one of the most elucidating and effable efforts in years. What sets "As I Am" apart are the distinct readings Chenoweth and producer Christopher Harris had given to these paeans. Rather than allow a genre to package the sonic output of the songs, Harris has allowed the songs to define the musical intonations. Hence, you will find power ballads in the Celine Dion league ("Borrowed Angels") side by side with the more acoustic-country sounding ("Poor Wayfaring Stranger") to an all-out gospel clamor ("Upon This Rock"). In short, this album's pride of place resides in the fact that Harris has allowed these song to define themselves as any good recording producer ought to do. Also, thumbs are up with regards to the choice of songs selected: though Chenoweth has tackled some of the great hymns of the church (such as "Joyful, Joyful," "Because He Lives," the title track etc) some of the hidden gems of contemporary Christian music have been unearthed. This includes Sandi Patty's "Upon this Rock," Amy Grant's "There Will Never Be Another," Faith Hill's "It Will Be Me" and Michael W. Smith's "Word of God Speak".

Though Chenoweth does not have a full bodied voice as that of say Whitney Houston, but she is well compensated with her nonpareil range that can escalate to the operative high registers that most singers only dreamed of reaching. Her vocal gymnastics is parlayed to its full glory on the Sandi Patty's majestic ballad "Upon this Rock:" listening to how she soars higher and higher towards the end of this tune is just an experience well worth the price of this CD itself. Though little bit more subdued, her rendition of the old Easter hymn "Because He Lives" is another standing ovation moment as Chenoweth breathes live and verve into each syllable of this gorgeous profession of faith. "Borrowed Angels," the brand new power ballad written by pop maestro Diane Warren has all the hallmarks of a Warren hit. This contemplative number is a beautiful apology for suffering and death that has overwhelming Christian overtones.

Some pedal steel certainly spices up the country flavor of Faith Hill's "It Will Be Me," but Chenoweth's flawless delivery adds an undeniable slickness to it. Belonging to the same country fold is Trisha Yearwood's top 5 hit "The Song Remembers When." With its vivid images, this Hugh Prestwood penned ballad about the power of music to reach the recesses of the heart, is sure to induce tears of affinity. However, with such highly charged ballads as "The Song Remembers When," the Southern gospel "Poor Wayfaring Stranger" provides a more understated bluegrassy feel that certainly creates variety and some emotional breathing space.

Perhaps out of place is the album closer the coy "Taylor the Latte Boy." On such a shiny and strong faith declarative album, this light weighted ditty about Chenoweth's crush for a Starbucks barista seems out of place. On a pop album, "Taylor the Latte Boy" could work. Further, Chenoweth's somehow frail delivery pales in comparison to Susan Egan's version which can be found on her latest LML release. Nevertheless, despite such quibbles, "As I Am" is truly a glorious and dexterous proclamation that ought to do her Savior proud.

Before I bought this CD, I had only seen Kristin Chenoweth in her role on West Wing. I had no idea of her background in Broadway musicals. This gal CAN SING!!! The album has a mix of contemporary and Christian music. While I would not consider myself a Broadway fan, this is one CD that I listened to over and over. After hearing her sing "Taylor, the latte boy" on a late night talk show, I had to have this CD. Her emotions, convictions, and high energy come across in all the tunes and her range is unbelievable. This is definitely an album that will bring joy to your life.

Kristin has once again amazed us all with her new CD "As I am"...which is just that; as Kristin is. The CD contains songs reflecting the personal beliefs and loves of Kristin herself, which is obvious as the music is sung with heart and conivction. Kristin's unbelievable ability to switch effortlessly from broadway to jazz, from pop to opera, from character voices to comedic ones, and on is sure to please a buyer.

Buyers should be aware that this CD does stray from Kristin's "broadway roots". Therefore, one seeking broadway songs, may be more likely to enjoy Kristin's first solo CD "Let Yourself Go" or "Wicked". However, Kristin's huge and beautiful voice still resides within the inspirational songs on this CD and one who is a fan would not be let down. Kristin has once again out-done herself with a beautiful CD that is sure to be a household favorite. Enjoy!

I am a huge fan of Kristin Chenoweth. I've seen her in Wicked (actually I flew the 3000 miles to NYC for that purpose), listened to her segments on "A Prairie Home Companion" and have purchased as many of her Cast Albums as I can get my hands on. In contrast to "Let Yourself Go," an album full of character songs and B'way hits form the '30s and '40s, "As I Am" is more of a worship CD. I'm not a devout Christian, and bought this album thinking it was a mix of genres. Of course, it helps that two of my favourite songs (Taylor, the Latte Boy; and Poor Wayfaring Stranger) are on here. I've never been a fan of Christian contemporary music because it has always seemed a little corny. Fortunately, this album is much more earnest and accesible than much Christian Contemporary music I have heard previously (mostly on road trips up the Valley, past cows and grass, where the only radio stations are either in Spanish or are Christian rock, and sometimes a combination!).

The first song, originally recorded by Faith Hill, sounds so different when Kristin sings it. I actually like it just as much in a different way. It's not a "romantic" song when Kristin sings it, but still holds as much passion. "Word of God Speak" is one of the best songs because it is just so simple. It is easy to relate to. If you ever have one of those days when everything has been so loud, so wrong, so challenging that you just want to lie on your bed and listen to the silence around you, this is the song to listen to first. It is amazing how much it makes me think about my self-worth and what is important in life. "Because He Lives" is more mundane, but still inspirational. I am more touched by "Abide in Me," most likely because I've yet to commit myself to Jesus. It is gentle and melodic, not to mention inspirational and comforting.

The next few songs have a bit of that Oklahoma gal (like "It WIll Be Me") and are so sweet and thoughtful. "Borrowed Angels" and "There Will Never Be Another" show a lot of Kristin's voice as well.

"Poor Wayfarin' Stranger" has always been one of my favourite songs. The melody is so intense, and it provides such comfort. The arrangement Kristin sings is so different than others I've heard; very cool and dusty. Like sunset in Arizona, I guess. In contrast, I've never liked "Joyful, Joyful" and I still don't. I think it was overdone on this album, and doesn't fit in with the rest of the songs. I understand the value if has for Kristin, as it is the first song she learned on the piano.

The last four songs are better. "The Song Remembers When" departs a little from the overall theme of the album, but fits in nicely sound wise. It is a very sweet, earnest song about old flames. I like "Power" becuase it is so Pop and fun, and you could tell that Kristin just had a blast recoding and mixing it! Perfect for going to the beach after going to church. "Just As I Am" is beautiful, classic, and all around lovely. It reminds me of a carol. Then Kristin has some vocal fun with "Upon this Rock" and the amazing lyrics. It is an inspirational song, which for some reason reminds of the writings of C.S. Lewis.

Now, my favourite song of Kristin's is "Taylor, The Latte Boy." It is so cute, and in context of the whole album, adds a little frivoloty (spelling?) that reminds us to cherish the little things. I just wish I had a "Taylor." And yes, I am a latte addict. "Grande percent Latte, please! With 2 'sugar-in-the-raw's." and occasionally "extra foam."

** Overall **
I recommend this album to anybody who loves Kristin's voice, or who needs an inspirational album to help get through those days when you are full of doubts. If you are strictly into opera and/or Broadway, this album isn't for you. Also, if you *hate /detest /loathe /are allergic to* anything that resembles something slightly more on the country-ish side of pop, then you *may* not like *some* of the songs.
It is a very good album. Everytime I listen to it I like it more.

i love kristin chenoweth! she is wonderful. her voice is flawless!!! if you appreciate good voices, you'll love this cd!! you don't have to be religious to enjoy it, but if you are it's even better!

A lot of comments have been made of the religious tone of this album and initially that put me off but Kristin's voice was too tempting a draw so I got it anyway. Yes there are religious songs but if that deters you at all don't let it. All the songs are beautifully sung. I could say I would love anything that Kristin sang but these are beautifully written songs which are worth experiencing. I love that she actually sings sighs and that I can tell when she is smiling during a song. Quite litterally her voice feels like home.