What does Wonder sound like?

A blend of heartfelt pop melodies and uplifting contemporary Christian themes infused with rich instrumentation. Rooted in pop rock and contemporary Christian music. Start with "Save Me From Myself".

Is Wonder a good place to start with Michael W. Smith?

Yes, Wonder is recommended as a starting point for new Michael W. Smith listeners. A blend of heartfelt pop melodies and uplifting contemporary Christian themes infused with rich instrumentation. By the time 'Wonder' was released in 2010, Michael W. Smith was a well-established figure in contemporary Christian music, having previously achieved significant success with albums like 'Healing Rain.' This release came during a period of artistic rejuvenation for him, as he sought to explore new musical territories while maintaining his core message of hope and faith.

Wonder works well if you're into steady mid-tempo contemplative flow, inviting emotional connection moments and uplifting themes for reflection.

How many songs are on Wonder?

Wonder has 12 tracks, running approximately 53 minutes.

Wonder

Michael W. Smith · 2010

53 min · 12 tracks · pop rock

A blend of heartfelt pop melodies and uplifting contemporary Christian themes infused with rich instrumentation.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Save Me From Myself Start here — This opening track sets the emotional tone of the album, combining vulnerability with a powerful plea for redemption that resonates throughout.
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Rise — 'Rise' serves as an anthem of hope and perseverance, showcasing Smith's ability to inspire through his music while featuring a memorable chorus.
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Wonder (Not Far Away) — The title track encapsulates the album's themes of wonder and faith, featuring lush arrangements and introspective lyrics that invite deep reflection.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

46 /100

Foothills

Higher than 10% of albums we've rated

The album showcases solid songwriting and production but follows familiar patterns within its genre.

What we noticed

The first half of the album features mid-tempo tracks that build on a consistent melodic theme, while the second half shifts to more reflective ballads.
Several songs incorporate layered vocal harmonies and rich instrumental arrangements, particularly in the choruses.
The title track, 'Wonder (Not Far Away)', stands out with its orchestral backing and dynamic shifts in intensity.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 6/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 5/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

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

steady mid-tempo contemplative flow
inviting emotional connection moments
uplifting themes for reflection
melodic warmth for quiet times

Maybe skip if you

seeking high-energy party tracks
prefer instant gratification sounds

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Late Career Highlight — Shows continued vitality and relevance in contemporary Christian music.
Career context: By the time 'Wonder' was released in 2010, Michael W. Smith was a well-established figure in contemporary Christian music, having previously achieved significant success with albums like 'Healing Rain.' This release came during a period of artistic rejuvenation for him, as he sought to explore new musical territories while maintaining his core message of hope and faith.
Stylistic neighbors: Amy Grant· Steven Curtis Chapman· Chris Tomlin