Customer Reviews

While I'm Waiting

5 star:		(10)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

John Waller is a singer/songwriter/worship leader who originally gained national attention fronting According to John. After the band ended, John and his family moved to Denver, Colorado, and focused on writing songs for his church congregation. The people at SouthLink Church loved John's music so much, they raised the money to finance his record. He eventually signed to Beach Street Records after Mark Miller--label owner and Sawyer Brown front man--was captured by John's powerful songs. Waller's distinctive sound reflects the praise-oriented heart of a humble, devoted servant. As one who has previously struggled with depression, Waller conveys his message with refreshing authenticity and unabashed openness.

Discussing his smash hit single "While I'm Waiting," featured in the hit movie "Fireproof": "I'm sure most people can relate to this song, but the important thing to remember while we're waiting on God, is to not just wait, but to actively wait. Serve, worship and be faithful with what you have, where you are, even while you wait." If you like the song "While I'm Waiting", then you're in for a real treat with the entire album including the original and Fireproof Remix of the title song, originally released on "The Blessing". Musically, I feel that the album is a slight step up, in particular with the songs "Hands Of The Healer", "Cling To The Call", "Quest", "House Of God" and "Our God Reigns Here", which are my other favorite songs on the album in addition to the title song, which is an amazing song. In particular I was struck by the song "Cling To The Call" which was one of the songs considered for the album title. The song continues the theme of "waiting" in that John waited 17 years to become a music artist and has held strong to that calling. John's songs tend to be personal and based on real-life situations. "Quest" is a fun story-song that even references Don Quixote. The second half of the album builds to another very memorable song "Our God Reigns Here" which will have you singing along in praise to our Savior!

The message of the album is extremely biblical and uplifting and worthy of the highest message rating of any album I've heard this year. Almost every song has bible verses listed in the liner notes to go with the songs. For example, "Faith Is Living" is based on Hebrews 11:1: "Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see." That type of encouragement is throughout the album, especially in songs like "House Of God" and the worshipful closing song "Perfect Peace". This is a great adult contemporary worship album. If you like Steven Curtis Chapman, Casting Crowns, Bebo Norman and MercyMe, then you should really enjoy John Waller.

I almost bypassed John Waller's second CD because of the title. I recognized it right away from his enjoyable first release. Fortunately, I stopped to look at the tracks and saw there was plenty of new material here.

But let's start with the old. "While I'm Waiting" has become huge because it was on the soundtrack for Fireproof. It is included here sounding identical to how it sounded on the first release. I'll admit it does bug me when an artist does that. I can almost understand it in this case since it has become a hit in the last two years. Anyway, the song itself is great. The final track is a mix of that song including dialogue from the movie. It's skip able in my opinion, but maybe I'll feel differently if I ever get a chance to see the movie.

Now, let's move on to the other 10 tracks here. He's kept the same pop/rock sound. He gets most rocking on "Our God Reigns Here," but is appropriately quiet on "Perfect Peace." Heck, there's even a slight hint of country on "Cling to the Call" (although that might just be me).

Lyrically, he touches on such topics as dying to self ("Dead Man Walking"), the search for God ("Quest"), and the wonder of Jesus humbling himself for us ("Of All the Places").

There are two songs I absolutely love. "Faith is Living" reminds us of our call to put our faith in God at all times. It does admit the struggles with doubt which I must admit I have more than I should.

Equally honest is "Cling to the Call." Written at a time of struggle, it contrasts past victories with current defeat while resolving to cling to Jesus to get us through.

Unfortunately, there are some moments of the trite and cliche that he struggled with before. "House of God" and "Dead Man Walking" are really nothing new. One says that God's house is his people, while the second uses Colossians as its chorus. As much as I enjoy "Our God Reigns Here," I'm a little uncomfortable with the second verse which seems to be approaching Charismatic territory for this Baptist boy.

So no, this still isn't a perfect release. However, it does have some strong songs on it I will be enjoying for some time to come.

Ever since I purchased his debut "The Blessing" which truly is a blessing to those who have heard it, I knew that this artist would definitely be one to watch. Boy was I right! Most people have probably heard of this song from the movie "Fireproof" which is how I came across it. God has really blessed this worship leader from Colorado with an awesome ability to write songs that really draw you closer to God. One great bonus is the Fireproof Soundtrack Sampler. I love especially Warren Barfield's "Love Is Not A Fight." John Waller communicates so effectively the in-between period of where we are and where God wants to put us. That we can still serve 'while we're waiting' for the Lord to open the doors. It's just a true worship and praise, close communion with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ type of music! If you can only afford to buy one album this year, I would strongly recommend this one. You won't be sorry you did!

I love this CD. I recently purchased it for a friend. I share this CD often. I love the song While I'm Waiting and Living by Faith. Those songs ministered to us while my husband was waiting and a heart transplant and healing from the transplant. I highly recommend this CD!

I was really looking forward to this album coming out, and I have to admit that it has far exceeded my expectations. The lyrics, music and overall artistry of this album is spectacular. This is a must-have album for any fan of Christian music and for any fan of the hit movie Fireproof.

I like the CD and would recomend it to anyone. I would like to hear more from John Waller. Really enjoyable music for worship.

This is a great follow-up to John Waller's debut album. I don't think "While I'm Waiting" needed to be put on this CD (and certainly not twice)since it's on "The Blessing," but since I like the song anyway, it's not a big deal. This CD is worth buying.

John is a blessed and gifted writer and singer. These songs have deep meaning and are beautiful done. I love this CD!

I bought it for 1 song and realized the whole CD is awesome, With songs of hope and encouragment. Love it.

First selection I have owned of Waller. He brings together several choices of music that represent his talents as well as his spiritual position.