Michael W. Smith 2 cover

Michael W. Smith 2

Michael W. Smith · 1984

36 min · 10 tracks · pop rock

Uplifting melodies intertwine with heartfelt lyrics, creating an inviting soundscape rooted in contemporary Christian rock.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    A Way Start here — This opening track sets the tone with its captivating melody and a message of hope that resonates throughout the album.
  • →
    Restless Heart — Exploring themes of longing and faith, this song showcases Smith's emotional vocal delivery and lyrical depth.
  • →
    Hosanna — A powerful worship anthem, 'Hosanna' encapsulates Smith's ability to blend praise with accessible pop sensibilities, making it memorable within the church community.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

43 /100
Lowland
Higher than 2% of albums we've rated

The album features solid songwriting and production but doesn't stand out significantly within its genre.

What we noticed

  • The album opens with a strong mid-tempo track, followed by a series of songs that maintain a consistent energy level until the final two tracks, which slow down significantly.
  • Several tracks feature layered vocal harmonies, particularly in the choruses, creating a rich sound that enhances the uplifting themes.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
6/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
5/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
5/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • uplifting melodies for reflection
  • steady pacing for focused listening
  • short tracks for quick enjoyment
  • heartfelt lyrics spark inspiration

Maybe skip if you

  • seekers of experimental sounds
  • prefer high-energy music only

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — This album marked a key moment in Smith's rise to prominence in Christian music.
Career context
Released in 1984, Michael W. Smith 2 was Michael W. Smith's second studio album following his self-titled debut. At this point in his career, he was transitioning from a budding artist to a prominent figure in the contemporary Christian music scene, solidifying his reputation as a songwriter and performer.
Stylistic neighbors
Amy Grant· Steven Curtis Chapman· Chris Tomlin

Tracklist

  • 1 A Way Start here 3:54
  • 2 I Am Sure 4:45
  • 3 End of the Book 4:11
  • 4 I'm Up 3:14
  • 5 Glorious Grace 3:20
  • 6 Musical Instruments 1:06
  • 7 Restless Heart 5:02
  • 8 All I Need To Say 4:23
  • 9 Wings of the Wind 4:15
  • 10 Hosanna 2:28

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata