Brave

I had never heard of Shawn McDonald until his We Are Brave Sampler EP was recommended to me on Noisetrade. I downloaded it and pre-ordered Brave here on Amazon the next day. His music is beautiful, positive, and upbeat. I find myself dancing about and singing along nearly every time I play his music. I have even made the chorus of 'We Are Brave' my ringtone.One of the things I love about his music (besides the wonderful string arrangements and great rhythms) is the positive message behind them. Its a nice change from the usual whining or angst. I also like his approach to his spirituality and faith in God. Its strong, fearless, yet almost casual. I never feel like I'm being preached to or expected to share the beliefs/agenda of a specific religion. This is usually what turns me away from most contemporary Christian artists.About the music itself, Shawn McDonald is incredibly talented. I especially love the strings (guitars and violins). He could do an entirely instrumental album and I would be all over it. The rhythms are great for dancing to, or just tapping your hands/feet and bobbing your head while you work, busy yourself online, or drive. His voice is fantastic as well and his lyrics are simple but unique without over doing it. I definitely recommend this album (and artist in general) to any contemporary pop-rock fans.

Shawn McDonald continues to set the bar high. I love every song but one song. There is a distinctly different vibe on this album but it is refreshing. There are a couple of classic SMc songs like firefly and compas and learning how to loose but I have to say I really do love this album. Kids love it to. Another sure fire winner. Thanks for putting your heart and soul into another great album Shawn.1 We Are are Brave- took a minute to grow on me but now I love it.2 End of the Day -absolutely Love it3 I can't imagine - absolutely Love it4 FireFly - Absolutely Love it this could actually get some secular play5 Hope Is Right Here -Love it6 Learning How to loose -absolutely love it7 World's apart-Love it8 Flower In the Snow -Love it9 Through It All -Rehashed song but still love it10 Compass -Absolutely love it11 Your Love Is Saving Me - Not feeling this one I guess it is a little to upbeat for me. This is the only song I am not feeling though.

Been a fan since I discovered your music a few years ago. I have purchased each CD (yep, CDs first...audiophile here who'd prefer vinyl). Shawn, you've been faithful in the music, it has progressed in style with time, but never diverted from the message. I love each album more than the last, yet I still listen to them all. Each has a different character, and none of them gets old. My favorite contemporary artist for years now.Keep it up, Shawn. I pre-ordered the last two CDs, and will order the next release as well.With regard to Brave itself, the songs are fantastic. They're fun, high energy, well written. I've listened through the album twice now, and will do so again driving to/from work tomorrow. Great work Shawn!Get yourself to San Diego or Rapid City!

As soon as I got my hands on the single-download, I couldn't wait until I downloaded the rest of McDonald's new album. I found myself not impressed as I was with just his single. His songs seem to flow together (more than usual, I guess), and it comes off kind of a updated teenie-bopper music, as if N'Sync had played around with more electronic pop or something.There are a few gems on Brave's cut, but to me, it doesn't match McDonald's biggest hits, which were in my mind, 'Roots," and "Closer".For my favorites on brave, is of course "We Are Brave," and maybe "Firefly," "Worlds Apart," "Compass," and "Your Love is Saving Me..." But who knows, they might grow on me? It just wasn't a hit in the face like his release Closer was to me...

i have all his cds and they are all absolutely awesome. i feel his music is written just for me with his lyrics- we must have alot in common- lol. every christian has struggled, will struggle and have highs and lows in our walk with Jesus and his music breathes life, hope and joy into my soul. some of his are my go-to songs when i especially to need be delivered to the feet of my Saviour for comfort and hope. the angels must be singing along when he sings!!

Usually when I buy a CD there are 2-3 songs that I really like, a handful that are OK, and a couple that aren't great. This is the first CD I have bought in a very long time where I like every single song - and so do my kids! Finally something the whole family is happy to listen to in the car. ;)

Shawn seems to have gone more mainstream with this album, but his unique style still comes through. The tracks are well-produced from a sound perspective, and the words of the songs are simple, yet thoughtful at the same time. The tracks I especially like are "End Of The Day" and "Learning How To Lose". The last track closes out the album in an unexpected way, which adds to its appeal.

I just love Shawn's connection with the Lord and his songs soothe everywhere, anytime we listen. My children love this album. Spread the Word of the Gospel and Christ loves shines to so many.

Amazing Album

I am always inspired by Shawn's songs and his story. This album is no exception. I love all of it.

Diese CD ist wirklich sehr schön, Liedtexte sind super und tiefgängig, Melodien sehr einprägsam. Shawn McDonald kann ich nur jedem weiterempfehlen!