Laura Story - Great God Who Saves

Reviewed by Martin I Smith

This South Carolina-born singer/songwriter has created a mature and creatively rich record that proudly launches her onto the major label scene now that her "Indescribable" composition is acknowledged worldwide as a classic worship song. Her knack for playful melodies and tasteful hooks remains very much present throughout the record. Straight away, "Bless The Lord" displays Laura's vocal prowess and skill for creating instrumentation that upholds her pop accessibility while demonstrating a style more intricate than her peers, hinting at influences of folk and bluegrass. As a compliment, the major label resources have captured and crafted every tone beautifully and thoughtfully into the mix. The production reaches especially luscious levels with the percussion; "Immortal, Invisible" and "There Is Nothing" are driven by drum lines that bounce and bob gently through the gaps in melody, so clearly audible and so whole-sounding you'll swear you're listening to something physically tangible. The record, punctuated by the occasional ballad and at times upping the pace with foot-tap inducing pop songs, is balanced in its delivery, and, while it leans primarily on Laura's haunting vocals and emotive lyrics, manages to create a listening experience far more rounded and fully realised than your average singer/songwriter release.