Bebo Norman Myself When I Am Real CD

With a few solid and successful albums already behind him, Christian pop singer-songwriter Bebo Norman takes the title of MYSELF WHEN I AM REAL literally, splicing away any layers of sonic distraction in favor of a more roots-oriented approach that spotlights the melodies and messages of his songs. This isn't exactly a lo-fi recording; there are plenty of panoramic moments, but there's more of an organic quality to the production and arrangements, as warm-sounding acoustic guitars mix with the plangent electric instruments, and Norman's inviting voice sails over the top. While there are plenty of full-speed-ahead pop-rockers here, it's telling that Bebo himself feels one of the key tracks to be "Great Light of the World," an acoustic guitar-driven, waltz-time ballad that offers simultaneously one of the most introspective and most faith-oriented lyrics on the album.

Recorded at Ed's, Franklin, Tennessee.

Personnel: Bebo Norman (vocals, acoustic guitar); Ed Cash (acoustic guitar, electric guitar, banjo, mandolin, piano, organ, keyboards, background vocals); Jerry McPherson (electric guitar); John Catchings (cello); Carl Hergesell (horns, Fender Rhodes piano, organ, Wurlitzer organ, Mellotron, Moog synthesizer); Ed Sweeny (horns); Byron House (upright bass); Dan Needham (drums, percussion, programming); David Barnes (background vocals).

Audio Mixer: Ed Cash.

Recording information: Ed's, Franklin, TN.

Photographer: David Dobson.

Unknown Contributor Role: Carl Hergesell.

Personnel: Bebo Norman (vocals, acoustic guitar); Jerry McPherson (electric guitar); Ed Cash (guitar, strings, keyboards); Carl Hergsell (keyboards); Craig Young (bass); Dan Needham (drums, percussion, programming).

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