Music Review: Todd Miller – ‘Bring Him Home’

From musical theater-style tunes to operatic-tinged numbers, Bring Him Home from solo vocalist Todd Miller has an ethereal texture that gives the music a spiritual sheen, creating a cross-section where Ben Vereen meets Josh Groban. Produced by his pianist Paul English and Andy Bradley, Bring Him Home features Miller’s broad vocal strokes laden with volume, luster, and firmness.

“Down Where the Willows Weep” makes audiences aware of the consolatory tone of Miller’s vocals, while “I Stand, I Fall” bolsters the soaring capabilities of his register. The flute and strings in the former accents the music with exotic Asian-hued atmospherics. His vocals are tall and statuesque through “Broken Vow” as the lyrics turn introspective: “I close my eyes and dream of you and I/And then I realize/There’s more to love then only bitterness and lies/I close my eyes.”

Miller switches to a cool jazz swagger in “Angels Can Fly” as Paul English’s piano keys produce a light hop in the rhythm pattern. The island ambiance of “This Is My Song” has a gentle rustling reminiscent of the music from the productions of The Lion King, and the plush condition of Miller’s vocals in “Lean Away” projects spiritual properties with elevated timbres that lift the listener up above the ground.

Miller’s experiences as a live performer are evidenced throughout the recording. His ability to touch his audience is instant, affecting the listener with every stroke of his vocals. From performing in churches to concert halls, Todd Miller reaches a broad audience from various sectors of life. The common link being that he touches the human sensitivities rooted in audience members.

Tracklisting:

“Brokenness,” “In My Father’s Loving Arms,” “Bring Him Home,” “Will There Really Be a Morning?,” “In Whatever Time We Have,” “I Stand, I Fall,” “Down Where the Willows Weep,” “Broken Vow,” “Angels Can Fly,” “This Is My Song,” “Lean Away”

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