All About Love by Steven Curtis Chapman

Reviewed by Steven Bridge

"'All About Love' is a celebration of what I still believe to be one of the most mysterious, wonderful, exciting, challenging and beautiful gifts we've been given to enjoy and experience...true love." So writes the stalwart (it's better than saying veteran) singer Steven Curtis Chapman about his interesting concept album with the theme of love in marriage. Before I hear the cry of "luvvaduck!", this hour's worth of music is okay. Okay for 30/40-somethings to chill-out to and reflect upon the experience of a roadworthy marriage founded upon God's love which has not foundered in 18 years. "Love and marriage go together....!" (You know the rest!). All a bit too lovey-dovey (and he holds 47 Dove awards!) but, hey, let's not knock it! Released in January 2003 and selling 100,000 in the first three weeks of US release (do they celebrate Valentine's Day in the USA?) and produced by CCM legend Brown Bannister, this is a typical Chapman soft, acoustic-tinged pop offering which his fans will love. Interestingly featuring a cover of the UK Top 20 '80s hit "I'm Gonna Be (500 Miles)" by the Proclaimers, 'All About Love' does exactly what it says on the sleeve: 15 love songs all about love. Nothing more, nothing less. Standard stuff by Steven.