Even though he has a long independent release history, Bebo Norman is quickly establishing himself in the larger Christian music arena as a songwriter extraordinaire. In his latest, Big Blue Sky, Norman writes and sings of a God never more alive and ever-present than in the rich lyrical imagery this burgeoning talent presents. In the catchy opener, "I Am," we're reassured that the Creator is "in the center of your storm / I am in the fire / I am in the flood / I am in the marrow and the blood / When you cannot stand, I am." Both "Cover Me" and "Underneath" also stand out with jangly, airy guitars that massage Norman's messages of hope and restoration. And you can't miss the moving tribute to mothers everywhere on the ending track, "Where You Are." Big Blue Sky is an impressive release full of reflection and resonance. Much credit for this should go to producer Ed Cash (Caedmon's Call), who puts Norman's earthy vocals and brilliant songwriting in a tasteful wrapper. --Michael Lyttle