Customer Reviews

That Kind of Love

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Pierce Pettis is the greatest singer-songwriter that you have never heard of. Every bit on par with James Taylor or Paul Simon or Jimmy Webb or Bruce Cockburn or Bob Dylan. He is that good.

The secret to Pierce's songwriting greatness is that he combines a Howard Finster-like poet's eye for spontaneous images and creativity, while at the same time writing songs that display a craftsman's attention to detail, a la Jimmy Webb. His songs are masterpieces, every one.

"That Kind of Love" is no exception to the rule. As he does with all of his releases, he opens with a masterpiece ("Nothing But the Wind") by the late, great Mark Heard, and then follows with a blend of his own superb songwriting (as well as a few covers of songs that reflect his southern roots). Highlights include the ballads "To Dance" and "Hallelujah Song"; the sublime "I am Nothing" and "Something for the Pain"; the hymn-like "That Kind of Love" and "You Did That for Me" (the latter covered by a host of artists); the driving "Lion's Eye" (inspired by C.S. Lewis); and "Farewell", the deeply moving account of a maternal ancestor who moved through coast and wilderness to marry a man she had never met, who was twice her age.

In addition to the stellar songwriting, Pierce's voice is in especially fine form, his baritone projecting a paradoxical display of weariness and hope, supplication and strength. His songs are witty, very wise, and deeply faithful.

This is an oustanding release, recommended without reservation of any kind. Even in times of economic crises -- heck, especially in times of economic crises -- we need poets and singers and songwriters to soothe and challenge and inspire, and Pierce does this and more.

Buy this CD, you won't regret it. (And since we are speaking of Pierce, do not miss the opportunity to see him live in concert. He is a phenomenal performer.)

Pierce is one of the greatest songwriters you have never heard of. This album is full of more great songs. Especially Farewell and That Kind of Love. If you are a fan of Lyle Lovett, Rich Mullins, or James Taylor, you might like this guy. He has pieces of each of those artists in his own style.

As a long-time Pierce Pettis fan, I can honestly say there is just something about his voice and music that touches my soul. I own every CD Pettis has recorded and I find, much to my delight, that he continues to mature artistically and creatively with each new album. This one was certainly worth the wait, especially considering all of the talented musicians who collaborated on this impressive production. I highly recommend it to anyone who really appreciates quality music, profound lyrics, and distinguished vocals. Pettis has them all, though I would never try to compare him with any other artist, as his work is a unique, complex blend of modern Americana music. The intrinsic value of his recordings is truly evident with every listen, and I just cannot get enough of his heartfelt musical genius. Experience "That Kind of Love" for yourself!