Between The Dreaming and The Coming True CD

Take an introspective journey through "life lived in the real and in the everyday" as Bebo shares personal glimpses of his relationship with God. Includes "Time Takes Its Toll," "Into the Day," "I Know Now," "Bring Me to Life," "Sunday," "To Find My Way to You," "The Way We Mend," "Be My Covering," and more.

A Potent Dose of Hopeful Honesty

While it’s certainly true that “clothes don’t make the man,” it’s a symbolic step when a singer/songwriter who’s best known for his wardrobe of wrinkled T-shirts and khakis opts for a suit and tie for his new CD’s artwork. And, for Bebo Norman, that’s only the beginning of what’s different this time around with Between the Dreaming and the Coming True, his fifth major-label album.

Instead of employing the introspective-guy-with-a-guitar routine of years past, he’s experimenting with a variety of musical textures, something that’s apparent from the outset on the piano-driven (yes, piano) cut “Into the Day.” Overall, his sense of adventure, musically speaking, is refreshing. It’s a little maudlin like David Gray’s latest some moments, then warm and jangly like Josh Rouse’s work the next. But, even though the album largely succeeds as a whole, there’s something about “Into the Day” that simply doesn’t jell. While the scaled-back accompaniment aptly showcases Norman’s rich tenor, the mood morphs from plaintive to easy-breezy pop far too quickly, making the track disjointed. Quite possibly, this may have been his intention, considering the theme of the record (more on that in a minute). However, the end result feels more like a few fractured ideas rather than a cohesive progression.

Despite the uneven beginning to Between the Dreaming and the Coming True, the idea that “you can’t understand light unless you understand darkness” is adeptly conveyed through tracks such as “Be My Covering,” a yearning plea for relief during the hardships of everyday life. Even better is the somber but poignant “Time Takes Its Toll” and “The Way We Mend,” two particularly relatable and heartfelt sentiments in the uncertain, war-ridden world we live in.

For those who may feel like they want to sit this one out because of what could be perceived as depressing subject matter that hits a little too close to home, there’s significant payoff if you’re up for the challenge. While hope in Christ is found in each song—even in the melancholy closer, “Now That You’re Gone,” an ode for those who’ve faced extended bouts of loneliness and grief—Norman doesn’t settle for easy answers or contrived clichés. And honesty like that, the kind that’s not tied neatly into a bow, is not only worth a listen but should be celebrated.

CHRISTA A. BANISTER – CCMMagazine.com

Average Rating:

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Reviewed by Darcey Elwell (Rochester, NY), March 26, 2008

I've loved Bebo's music from the first time I heard him. He's mellow and soulful. His music has a wonderful quality to it. There's meat and depth to every song. Even if it's a love song. I got this cd because it had song number 5, I Will Lift My Eyes. Great song! And I've become quite fond of every other song on the cd. I would recommend this artist and this cd to anyone.

Reviewed by Katherine (Champaign, IL.), July 03, 2007

Bebo Norman has always had talent, and this CD definitely shows it. I love "I will lift my Eyes"- what an amazing song to come closer to God in any situation. There are a few songs for those who are dating or married.. but the other songs on there balance it out, and makes it a CD to rave about to anyone. It is a fun CD to sing to, and i'm exited for those that buy it!

Reviewed by Jonathan (Deerfield, IL), March 19, 2007

This is by far my favorite Bebo Norman album. Peppier than his last CD, "Try" and just a great CD to pop in and enjoy. When I first heard Bebo Norman I didn't like his musical style at all. After hearing the song "Falling Down" from his CD "Myself When I'm Real" (my second favorite Bebo Norman album) on the radio and really liking it, I found the CD in my collection and gave it another try. "Big Blue Sky" (his release before "Myself...")has also become a favorite too. Upbeat and encouraging, any soft-rock lover (fans of Jars of Clay, lifehouse, Paul Colman Trio, Bethany Dillon, and Mark Shultz) will find this album a wonderful addition to their collection. GREAT CD!!!

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