One of Christian music's finest songwriters has released his most personal and fully developed effort yet with 1998's A Room Full of Stories. These 10 songs reflect the Christian viewpoint in a mirror. King asks some tough questions in "Universe Next Door" and "Magnificent Defeat," holding himself and the faith accountable in the surrounding world. But it is "Thought You'd Be Here" that exemplifies King's masterful songwriting as he painfully illustrates a personal plea for a child, all the while wondering, "did we do something wrong?" This gut-wrenching writing is highlighted by a light and acoustic musical approach, allowing the superb lyrical content to shine through. It's no surprise that producer Wayne Kirkpatrick (himself a great songwriter) allows the songs to stand tall. King's high-end vocals and wealth of acoustic guitars may remind you of Kenny Loggins's pre-Footloose days... you know, back when he was a good songwriter, too. --Michael T. Lyttle