As the United States of America marked the two-week anniversary of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon, contemporary Christian music saw the release of
Steven Curtis Chapman's 12th album simply entitled Declaration. The album's name is taken from the project's song "Declaration of Dependence," in which
Chapman proclaims his utter reliance on God. It only seems fitting that a project with the intent of declaring everyone's need, as human beings, for dependence upon the Almighty would be offered in the wake of such tragic and horrific events. The Sparrow Records' project mirrors
Chapman's previous three or four albums. It does not necessarily employ the precise styles of acoustic pop and CCM as its predecessors. However, the release reflects his past efforts in that
Chapman appears to be re-inventing himself once again without losing the sound listeners have come to expect. With Dependence,
Chapman continues to provide upbeat, and at times edgy, tracks that communicate clear messages of faith. Notable songs include the album's first radio single, "Live Out Loud," which references Regis Philbin, "Bring It On," and the poignant "Savior." ~ Ashleigh Kittle