I feel it necessary to, before talking about the music on this album, talk a little bit about Allen Levi himself. To fully understand where he comes from, listen to his journey.

Allen Levi left a career in law, of all things, in 1995, to become a full-time songwriter and singer. That being known, it gives us a greater understanding that, while his lyric is simple and his music sort of down home, it's not for lack of education. It's not for lack of knowledge. It is instead, I think, because Allen has been the same place that many of us are; indeed, the place we STILL are, and has decided that he wants to make his messages completely accessible. The Moon is Round is, like his many other albums, exactly that. Totally, unashamedly accessible.

With that long intro, we get on with the music. I have 5 or 6 or Allen's other records, and I have really come to love his conversational, tenderly challenging lyric. His music is soothing. His heart is poured out from the beginning note to the last fade out. This music is totally real.

I think my favorite here has to be, "Where the People Walk Backwards," a fairy-talish look at the challenge of the Christian life. Other notable standouts are "Carnival of Counterfeits," which calls us out to be authentic, and "The Moon is Round," which celebrates the constancy and steadfastness of God.

Then the last track. To round out the record and reassure that he's indeed talking to you, Levi has included "Porch Talk," which is exactly what it sounds like. Allen's on his porch, sort of strumming his guitar, and he's talking to us. He's encouraging us. He's giving us his insight into the songs. You feel like you're making a friend, and having talked to Allen a few times, I don't think he'd mind that at all. That's what this album really feels like. Encouragement, but challenge; gratitude to God filled with a wonder and awe at what He brings our way.

Visit Allen's website

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