Album Review :
John Mark McMillan - The Song Inside the Sounds of Breaking Down: Deluxe Reissue

One thing that is immediately different about this album is that the track listing has been modified. The reissue of The Song Inside the Sounds of Breaking Down has excluded the original first track “London Town” and added two previously unreleased listings “Dancing On The Doors” and “Hold On” as well as an alternate version of the beloved song “How He Loves”. I like the fact that he maintains a simple and straightforward style while still being incredibly dynamic in his writing. That has held true through all his releases.

As you listen to The Song reissue alongside its original, you’ll notice little changes in the production of each song, which explains the “remixed and remastered” description. Some of the sound is more clear, developed, and improved upon the already wonderful quality, production, and talent that John Mark McMillan has. Each release has a different sound than the last, which shows his versatility and ability to continue creating music that is relevant and fresh.

The reissue of The Song Inside the Sounds of Breaking Down is an exciting release because of the bonus material that’s included. “Dancing On The Doors” is just an example of how well he does writing songs that are fun and upbeat but still hold a true, clear meaning in their words. His songs tell stories and present the Gospel in fresh ways:

“See the wall / See the writing on it / See the wind / See the One who rides upon it / See the mighty and the high all hang their head / He burns like the rage of a firmament fire / Falls with the weight of a jealous desire / Like a downpour dancing on the doors / Of the sleeping and the dead / Like rain falling over us / Like rain falling over us / Like rain falling over us / This ain’t no kind of religion / This is love.”

And then there are songs like “Hold On” that display the weakness of man in a humble way. These songs convey our need for God in a poetic exchange of words that invoke the desire to rise up and claim the strength that He gives us in times of trial:

“You came dressed up like a sinner / So you drank my shame and you gave yourself away? / I will lay beneath weight of this unrequited grace that laid down in my place / There is a hope that will not disappoint you no / Will not let you down, will not let you down / I will not be moved / I’ll hold on to you / You grow beauty in my ashes / Sunlight in my sorrow / A garland for depression / You paint portraits on my mourning / Of hope and glory / With Oil and with joy / There is a hope that will not disappoint you no / Will not let you down, will not let you down / You, who are my hope / I will hold on to / You, who are my hope / I will hold on to.”

Overall: I’d say this has been a good improvement on an already great album, and shows listeners how much potential John Mark McMillan has in his writing ability. Personally, I’ve always been able to depend on the consistency he brings to the table and I have yet to be disappointed by his talent. This reissue was a great move for him. I encourage you to check it our for yourself. It’s available on his website as well as iTunes.