Live Unplugged [CD/DVD Combo]

One thing that will hit you quickly about Jeremy Camp’s Live Unplugged is the number of radio hits the 24-year-old has already chalked up. Ten of the 11 tracks on this release were penned by Camp and nearly every one has reached the top, if not next to the top, of the Christian radio charts. It’s been an amazing ride for Camp and he capably displays his career highlights here in a relaxed and laid-back atmosphere. He plays it safe with basic arrangements throughout, but you will hear some nice piano touches by Justin Glasco on "Right Here" and "Empty Me." The addition of the Nashville String Machine is also used well on "My Desire," which may be the best track on the release. Along with Glasco’s piano accompaniment, Camp delivers powerfully and emotionally here and maybe even surpasses the song’s original version. Camp also shines bright on "Take You Back," "Stay," and "This Man." Kudos also go out to Camp’s wife Adrienne (who used to lead The Benjamin Gate) for some fine backing vocals. Granted, there are a few blemishes such as the cheesy vamp at the end of "Walk By Faith," a slower-than-it-should- be version of "I Still Believe," and the head-scratching cover of Tim Hughes’ "Beautiful One." But why major on the minors? Live Unplugged is a worthy effort and a nice inclusion to any Camp fan’s collection. --Michael Lyttle