Counting Stars

I've been putting off writing this review because I want to put time into producing something that will do this album justice. That would take a huge effort, so I'm just going to write what comes to mind now.Andrew has said that his goal is "to tell the truth in the most beautiful way possible." That is exactly what he does on this album, more than any of his others. He is rooted and grounded in the gospel. He knows the joy of everyday relationships in Christ. He knows life's pain and doesn't hide from it, but sees it through the lens of the promises of God. He can look at the world in its beautiful brokenness today, and in the next verse pull back the curtain to see the promised world that is redeemed and perfected and made more beautiful."World Traveller" is the most beautiful description of family life and relationships I've ever heard.Plus, while each song is satisfying in the first listen, they have layers of meaning that reveal themselves only after repeated listening and pondering. Often the full meaning of a song is only realized by the change of one or two words in the later choruses.There is so much diversity musically. Each track has its own imaginative soundscape, each one well-fitted to the message of the song.If you love truth and beauty, this album will be a rich feast for you.

I've been an Andrew Peterson addict since I first heard "While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks" from "Behold the Lamb of God" nearly a decade ago. I own every one of his albums -- I think that's the only artist for whom I can make that declaration -- and, as such, I was eagerly anticipating the release of "Counting Stars". As I expected, I was not disappointed once I made the purchase.As with AP's other releases, the music and lyrics speak to the listener in a deeply personal, intimate way. But this release even steps it up a notch, with the music and lyrics more beautiful than ever. I've never met Andrew, and yet I feel like we could meet up for an afternoon latte in a coffee shop and trade stories of the joys and sorrows of life, family and faith long into the dark of night -- and I know that I'd walk away from that encounter enriched and encouraged.I turned on "Counting Stars" during a road trip with my wife last week (it was probably, by that time, my tenth or so listening of the album), and I commented to my wife, "I don't know why, but every time I listen to this CD (and ALL of AP's music) my heart is warmed and I literally feel moved...". Her reply was that AP "sets the poetry of life to music", and that's why it connects so well with his listeners. How true.If you have a passion for life, a passion for Christ, and a passion for music, you won't want to miss "Counting Stars". Just the latest -- and arguably the best -- example of Andrew Peterson's God-given gift of setting the poetry of life to music.

If you have listened to Andrew Peterson's music you already know what an amazing storyteller he is. His lyrics will take you into many interpersonal aha moments. He will let you know that you aren't the only person out there battling themes of failure, love of your childern, both personal fall backs but also gains in your life. I have all of his albums and I am a fan. Andrew has been compared to Rich Mullins although I think this comparison can be attributed more to his lyrics than musically (although there are similarities also).This album is very sound and flows very well in a Andrews folk way with a rare flair of southern guitar sound. His lyrics and voice are what draws me to his music. I love to listen to him sing his stories of his love of God, love of his marriage, and childern. Andrew's faith is forefront in his music and on this album is no different. I would highly recommend this album and if you are new to Andrew Peterson it is a great introduction to his music.It is always a great day and year when Andrew puts out a new album!!! Smiles all the way!

I bought this CD as a gift for a friend. She had seen Andrew perform one of his songs and loved it. She sent me a link to the song I loved it too so I got one of his CD's from the library and listened to it. I really liked it so I shared it with my friend who also fell in love with the music. Her birthday was coming up so I purchased 2 of his CD's and she plays them all day long while working around the house as background music. We have both become very big fans of this artist.

This album is definitely one of my all time favorites. "You Came So Close" is a very emotionally touching song. Having lived in the Nashville area for a number of years, the line about how the winter in Nashville brings you low really resonated with me. There are lots of other jewels on here. Song after song combines catchy rhythms with great lyrics. This one stays in my car all the time and I listen to it frequently. Simply great.

I even play this while mountain biking or working.

Interesting

If you like story telling songs that make you think, this cd is for you! Andrew's style is quieter but musically rich with delicate piano and steady acoustic guitar.If you like artists like: Chris Rice, Fernando Ortega, Michael Card, or Don Francisco, Andrew Peterson's Counting Stars may be a good fit for you.

Our favourite album, and the track Dancing in the Minefields was our first dance at our wedding!

Absolutely fabulous album! Beautiful thoughts, beautifully expressed, and delightfully arranged! "World Traveler" is my favorite. Highly recommend.