CHRISTOPHER HENRY, I’M GONNA WAIT ON JESUS

CHRISTOPHER HENRY
I’M GONNA WAIT ON JESUS

Arrendem Music
AR 270

Christopher Henry’s latest all-original recording recalls in some ways his previous effort Making My Way To You. There was bluegrass on that one, and there’s bluegrass on this one, specifically the gospel tune “I’m Gonna Wait On Jesus” and “Miss Missing You.” But as with the previous effort, there’s quite a bit of musical variety here, as well.

There’s the country-rock and drums on “Livin’ In The Lotus,” a sort of plea for understanding that those with diverse beliefs can still be rewarded. And there are more straightforward country tunes (most with drums and electric instruments), including “Deep Blue Water,” the bluesy country waltz of “Ship Of Love,” the slow “Bad Time To Start,” and the more pop-influenced stylings of “Pourin’ Poison.”

From there, the offerings step outside a bit more. “The Dying Room” is a story song of a life wasted away on drugs and hard-living with Johnny Cash-like overtones. That one is preceded in the tracking by a medium-tempo rocker, “Rounder,” that blends island rhythms and ’60s pop. At his most diverse, Henry lets go with a rambling-rake confessional called “Tinder Binder.” Here, he sounds a bit like Jimmy Buffett in his rhyming patterns and extolling of girls, fun, and sun. The song’s Calypso beat, drums, and electric instrument support are a far cry from bluegrass, but is catchy, well-done, and a highlight.

This album is engaging overall. The songs are strong, both melodically and lyrically, and draw you in and hold your attention. (www.christopherhenry.net)BW