Mark Schultz Album: “Song Cinema”

I first heard Mark Schultz on a "WoW" compilation a few years back. It was my first real foray into Christian music (though my wife owns quite a bit of it), and I enjoyed many of the songs I heard. But one song stayed with me, playing in my head until I had to listen to it daily in order to get it out of my brain for a while. That song was "I Am the Way," from Mark's first album. I was so impressed that I bought it, which led to my acquisition of "Song Cinema." So far, I have to say that Mark has indeed been a wonderful surprise. As good as his debut was, "Song Cinema" may be even better. His wonderful blend of solid songwriting, great lyrics, and a deep personal faith, so perfectly realised on his debut, is even stronger here. The best comparison, both musically and vocally, is to Richard Marx in his prime. All of the songs on this album are very entertaining, full of great harmonies and strong statements of faith, and there are some tracks which are real standouts: I normally despise remakes (ususally a sign of an artist lacking in originality), but his reimagining of the old Mr. Mister standard "Kyrie" is a real treat, and is not an insult to the original; there's also the memorable opening track, "When the Mountains Fall," a perfectly harmonized sing-along-to-it song; and the redemptive "I Have Been There," which is a wonderful expression of the depth of his faith. This is a great follow-up to an excellent debut, and is highly recommended.

I saw him in concert and he was just awesome! He's a very humble man that loves to tell stories about how Jesus touched that person's life. His voice reminds me of the lead singer of the mainstream band Styx. I love the CD and can play it over and over again! I highly recommend this CD!

This CD is great. I still listen to this CD from time and time and I'm blessed by it. "I Have Been There" speaks clearly of Christ's love for us and reminds me that He truly does know what it's like to face trials in this world.

Mark Schultz has released an incredible follow-up to his eponymous debut album -- in fact, like the first disc, I found that I liked every song I heard even on first listen. (And I can always manage to find at least one song I don't like in ANY collection.)

Stand-out tunes include the first two Christian radio singles, 'I Have Been There' and 'Back In His Arms Again', as well as 'Faith, Hope & Love' and the touching 'Time of My Life'. A token duet is included (with the VERY talented Rachel Lampa -- keep an eye/ear out for HER in the future), and some might be surprised to hear a remake of Mr. Mister's 'Kyrie Eleison'. It was one of Mark's favorite "cruising" tunes in high school, when he'd drive around and sing the song along with the radio!

If you're looking for good rock music with thought-provoking, Christ-centered lyrics, this is your man -- in fact, make sure you buy the debut album too, because you won't be disappointed.

I've loved Mark Schultz ever since his first song, I am the Way. He gives me a boost of inspiration, a good cry or a comfort when I'm lonely. I cannot decide which of his CDs are better. I can't wait for his next.