As Michael W. Smith released his first full-length worship album on September 11, 2001, the country was in the midst of a national tragedy. As the nation began the healing process, Smith's live worship recording tugged at heartstrings across the country and fueled a fire that had been ignited in churches and households nationwide. Worship was last year's fastest-selling album and received Dove Awards for Praise & Worship Album of the Year and Inspirational Song of the Year ("Above All").

On July 19, 2002, Smith again packed an auditorium – this time at Southeast Christian Church in Louisville, Kentucky — to capture another live event. The new recording, Worship Again features a brand new collection of classic worship choruses and newly-penned creations that Smith performed this time around with a 14-member band and vocal worship team. The result is a reverent and moving worship experience, with a crop of songs that may even be more powerful than those on the original recording.

Among the album's highlights are the emotion-filled, Chris Tomlin-penned "Wonderful Cross" and the new worship classic, "Lord Have Mercy" (which also appears as a studio cut on the album with guest vocalist Amy Grant). The Rich Mullins favorite, "Step By Step," makes a nice album opener, and the patriotic "There She Stands" is the fitting final track.

Worship Again is another heavy-hitter for an artist who has secured his position as one of the top worship leaders of our day.

Debra Akins