GOLDIE'S LAST DAY

The Joel Hanson Band was founded in Minnesota in 1989. By 1991 they changed their name to Inside Out and signed with Brown Bannister's new label, Vireo Records. They then changed their name to Pray For Rain and in 1992 released their self-titled debut which included 'Do You Want to Know Love'. An instrumental group of the same band name threatened a lawsuit, so the band shortened their name to PFR. In 1993 they put out their second album, GOLDIE'S LAST DAY (Vireo). Group members were Joel Hanson, Patrick Andrew, and Mark Nash. The album was produced by Jimmie Lee Sloas and executive produced by Brown Bannister.

First up is the sizzling pop/rock song, 'Walk Away From Love'. It's addressed to non-Christians: "Maybe I'm right and He's waiting at the table/Maybe it happened when I saw it was my sin/Maybe He's waiting for a chance to show you true love/Maybe you'll never get this chance again/I can't understand why you would walk away from love". 'By Myself' is a song of self-reflection: "I got here by myself but I know that I will never leave the same way/I got here by myself but how many more will I have led astray?/It's not long before I notice there are no doors to be seen/I can see I'm going nowhere, somewhere that I've already been". 'That Kind of Love' is a beautiful ballad with these poetic words: "And, oh, I would give anything to see Him face to face/And, oh, He gave us everything to make the world a better place/And, oh, where does that kind of love come from?/They say that it runs in His blood".

'Dying Man' testifies: "Now I've found freedom/Now mercy holds my hand/It took the grace of One living to save this dying man". 'Spinnin' Round' is simply a fun, catchy pop/rock cut: "Some people say we're crazy, but we're all spinnin' round/But you and me, we've got something to say/We're all spinnin' round, all spinnin' round.../But you and me, we've got something inside/I think we're gonna make it, yeah, yeah".

Next, we come to the title track, 'Goldie's Last Day' inspired by the death of group member Patrick Andrews' golden retriever. This novelty song begins with these thoughts: "Puppy love, puppy love/Yes, she gave all she had/Not like a brother or sister, more like a Mom or a Dad/We never asked her, never gave her a choice/We just barked out commands/'Sit, stay, don't beg, stop licking my hands'/Those days are gone now/I wish Goldie would come out and play". 'Satisfied' is upbeat rock 'n' roll musically. It desires spiritual growth: "Winter, Spring, or Summer, Fall/The seasons never cared at all/That I was never changing/My colors stayed the same/But when days go by and I'm not growing/The leaves fall off to bare what I'm not showing/That I've never had my feet wet/And for that I am to blame".

'I Don't Understand' reminds us God's ways are higher than ours: "I retreat by myself at the back of my brain/I cannot see what You're showing me through this pain/I have found that I have found nothing for so long/I don't understand, I don't need to/I know You've a plan You will see through/It is in Your hands/I believe You". 'Mercy Man' is a good rock song about having hope in Jesus: "He said that all could be forgiven if I could trust in One who'd risen/And that's when His mercy came to me/I was saved by the mercy Man/He touched my heart/He helped me understand that there was shelter in unfailing love if I'd just take the hand, hand of the mercy Man".

What follows is 'Shine', a bouncy pop song about witnessing: "Since He's come into my life He's brought sunshine to my day/I will let my light shine, no more shadows/I will let my light shine/Darkness, run away/I will let my light shine for a bright tomorrow/I will let my light shine". Last up is 'Wait for the Sun' a ballad of encouragement: "So wait for the sun to come out again/Storms always come but they blow away with the wind/So wait for the Son is coming again/Winds of trial blow hard, so we got to hang on, hang on to Him.../He's won greater battles before/What makes you think He won't fight now?"

GOLDIE'S LAST DAY is mostly fast paced pop/rock songs, with two or three ballads mixed in. If you like the vocal stylings of Phil Keaggy and/or The Beatles, this album should appeal to you. God's love, grace, mercy, and forgiveness are central on this CD. Listeners are invited to leave the wrong spiritual paths they are on and come and follow Jesus. He can help us all grow spiritually by His Spirit. We can also share God and all He offers with others. I'm rating this fun, 'summery' sounding album 87.5%. For more info connect with the group on social media.

READY TO FLY

FFH (Far From Home) released their major label debut, I WANT TO BE LIKE YOU, in 1998. Fast forward to 2003 and they put out their fourth album READY TO FLY (Essential). It peaked at #5 on the Top Christian Albums chart. Group members were Jeromy and Jennifer Deibler, Brian Smith, and Michael Boggs. In the liner notes, the group writes: "Our music is who we are. We are honored to have been given a few moments in your hectic schedule. We pray that God would speak to you through what you hear".

Starting things off is one of seven songs Jeromy wrote alone. 'You Found Me' finds Lincoln Brewster and Jerry McPherson on electric guitar. It's a great pop song of testimony: "In the pit of despair/I was all alone there/I wasn't looking for You/But You found me anyway/You put Your hand on my face/Then You changed my name/Nothing can separate me from You". 'Good to Be Free' makes use of trumpet and portrays Jesus as Savior: "I spent so long living in a cell that I thought was home/I didn't know it wasn't for me/I let the Lord search my soul with a fine tooth comb/He showed me everything that I could be/Now I see it's good to be free".

Michael Boggs and Tony Wood co-wrote 'It's A Good Day'. Byron Hagan plays the B3 on this cheery pop song of contentment: "Circumstance and situations change/You know life can turn on a dime/But there's a constant hope and peace/That I have come to find/And it's all because of who God is/And that He is alive and I am His". The title track, 'Ready to Fly', utilizes the Nashville String Machine. It's a pop ballad longing for heaven: "I'm ready to fly, I'm ready to soar/I'm ready to leave this world behind/I'm ready to open up the door/I'm ready to fly/I'm ready to spread my wings across the sky/I think it's time/I'm ready to go/I'm ready to fly".

'I'll Join the Rocks' is a song of praise: "Your song goes on and on and I must testify/I know that I was born to worship/So if all the singing stops/I'll join the rocks.../Hallelujah!" Jeromy co-wrote 'Follow Love' with Scott Krippayne. Tambourine and B3 appear on this pretty ballad appropriate for a young person going off to college or university: "I've got a heart that's full of dreams/And a little bit of crazy/I can feel it pulling me to somewhere I have never been/I'm packing up and leaving home/To travel into the great unknown/It's time, I have to go".

Next is 'Never Gonna Be Alone', a bouncy pop song about God's goodness: "Jesus came and gave His life away/And rose again on that day/So we could say/'I'm ne ne never gonna be alone/Cause He's around". Michael Boggs and Jeromy Deibler co-wrote 'Ready for a World'. Mark Hill plays bass on this happy pop song anticipating heaven: "I am ready for a world/Where I will kneel before Your throne/And I will hear the words/'You are finally home'/I am ready for that world/But for now and until then/I will try and comprehend/How my world will be made new/I'm ready (2X)".

'Waltz for Jennifer' includes the use of accordion and bouzouki. It's a pretty love song: "We belong together, you and me/Holding on tight like lock and key/Going strong, the way this love should be/A fantasy/And I'm so glad that God made me for you and you for me". 'His Love Goes On Forever' is one of two songs solely written by Michael Boggs. It's an energetic praise and worship song: "His love reaches to the highest mountain/His love stretches to the lowest valley/His love will never fail me/It's always there, surrounding me".

'If Not For Christ' is a beautiful ballad of gratitude: "It was for me He bled and died/It was my sword that pierced His side/It was my name that Jesus cried/When on that tree He bled and died/It was for me He bled and died/And now to Christ I owe it all/He is to me a tower strong/Salvation does to me belong/It is to Christ I owe it all (2X)". Last up is 'Here I Am', a touching song that begins with these words of spiritual surrender: "Here I am, my knees are on this floor again/Take away my pride, reveal this heart within/And send Your rain of mercy, let the healing begin". 

READY TO FLY is a terrific pop album of fast and slow songs, that showcases the tight vocal harmonies of FFH. Thematically, this album spends a lot of time reflecting on the goodness of our God. He loved us so much that He sent His Son Jesus to Calvary to die for our sins, saving us and purchasing our freedom. He is a faithful God Who deserves our praise and our worship. We should give our entire lives to Him. FFH also longs for heaven. What a grand place that will be for eternity! There's also a nice love song and one song about pursuing one's dreams. For more info visit www.ffh.net and connect with the group on social media. I'm giving this one 100%.

PURE ATTRACTION

Kathleen 'Kathy' Troccoli was born on June 24, 1958 in Brooklyn, New York. She released her debut CCM album, STUBBORN LOVE, in 1982. Fast forward to 1991 and she put out her fourth full-length album, PURE ATTRACTION (Reunion). It was produced by Ric Wake and executive produced by Michael Blanton and Terry Hemmings. In the liner notes, Kathy shares: "I pray that as I sing my heart, I'll be singing yours too-and that we'll all become better lovers of one another-and even greater lovers of God".

The first two songs were written by the successful Diane Warren. 'Everything Changes' was a top five CCM and top twenty mainstream hit. It's a perfect, upbeat pop love song: "Well, you came in my life like a ray of light shining through the clouds in my heart/I just looked at you and the world was new/It was right right from the start.../Everything changes/Nothing looks the same through the eyes of love". 'Can't Get You Out Of My Heart' is a slower pop song of one longing to get their romantic partner back: "How can I think of finding somebody new/Ooh, when all I ever do is think of you?/What can I do?/I hear my heartbeat-it's calling your name.../I see your face every place I go/How to stop loving you, baby, I don't know/Cause I can't get you out of my heart".

'You've Got A Way' is a radio friendly adult pop ballad. It finds Kathy grateful for her partner: "Oh, how you make me laugh/Oh, how you've heard me cry/And oh how you make me feel so wonderful inside.../You've got a way/You've got a way that heals me/With love like I've never known/And when I`m with you/When I'm with you/I'm always, I'm always at home". 'Only Love Can Know' drags on and addresses Kathy's partner: "As I journey to high places far away from here/What a comfort to know you're on the ride/Oh, only love can go/Where no one dares to go/You've touched me there/Where only love can go".

Next up is 'Help Myself to You' which Kathy wrote alone. It's about her relationship with Christ and is a great pop song: "To be alone with You Jesus/It's such an honor for me/Pour Your life into me/Fill me with Your glory/Let Your love consume me/Oh to be at this place/It's an act of Your grace/And there's nothin' that I'd rather do than to help myself to You". There's a nice electric guitar solo too. Kathy co-wrote 'The Hard Days' with Bill Montvilo. It's about depending on God when times get rough: "There are times I think I've had enough/Life has brought me to my knees/Oh, takes a toll on me/But Your hold on me/It stays, oh, how it stays/On the hard days I'm gonna look for You/I gotta see You/On the hard days".

'Love Was Never Meant to Die' is a pretty ballad of gratitude to God: "Love was never meant to die/But still You gave Your all to keep it alive/And I can't imagine why You'd give Your life for me/But I've begun to see/That Your love was never meant to die". What follows is a cover of Stevie Wonder's 1972 song 'You And I'. It's very positive: "Here we are on earth together/It's you and I/God has made us fall in love, it's true/I've really found someone like you.../Well, in my mind we can conquer the world/In love you and I/You and I (2X)".

'Love Has Found Me Here' includes these encouraging words: "Love, love has found me here/Hiding all these years/From the calling of my heart/Love, love has found me here/Love has reappeared/Or were You there right from the start?" Last up is 'You're Still Here' penned by Kathy and Jack Fowler. It speaks of God's faithfulness: "You're still here/And I'm reminded of the love that I once knew/You're still here longing for the day that You can hold me close/Oh Lord, You know I never meant to let You go/And You've been here/You're still here!"

When all is said and done, PURE ATTRACTION is a great pop record! Both it and Amy Grant's HEART IN MOTION came out in 1991. There are six ballads and four faster songs on Kathy's project, with definite adult contemporary influences. Kathy's vocals are smooth and strong, while Richie Cannata plays sax well. There are several songs celebrating male-female romantic relationships and there's one that longs after a former love. God is portrayed as loving and always there for us. He went to the cross for us and is our Helper. Kathy desires closeness with Him, as we all should. I'm rating this album 92%. For more info visit www.kathytroccoli.com and connect with her on social media.

A VIOLENT GRACE: MEETING CHRIST AT THE CROSS

Michael Card was born on April 11, 1957 in Madison, TN. His debut album was 1981's FIRST LIGHT. Likely his most famous song is 'El Shaddai'. It's a co-write with John Thompson and was a big hit for Amy Grant. Fast forward to 2013 and Card released the live concert CD entitled A VIOLENT GRACE: MEETING CHRIST AT THE CROSS (Covenant Artists).

Starting things off is the easy listening title track, 'A Violent Grace'. It reflects on Christ's sacrifice for us: "So ruthless He loves us/So reckless His embrace/To show relentless kindness to a hardened human race/The joy that was before Him/On the Man of Sorrows' face/And by His blood He bought a violent grace". 'Only His Wounds Intro' continues the theme: "Only His wounds can heal the broken/Only His wounds can save us from sin". 'Known By the Scars' touches on the resurrection: "And after they had slain Him and laid Him in the grave/And the ones He loved had fled into the dark/Then love and power raised Him/God won the victory/But they only recognized Him by the scars". 'Ride on to Die' is a ballad about Jesus entering Jerusalem: "Oh daughter of Zion/Your time's drawing near/Don't forsake Him/Oh, don't pass it by/On the foal of a donkey/As the prophets had said/Passing by you He rides on to die".

'In the Garden' is a quiet song about Christ in Gethsemane: "Trembling with fear alone in the garden/Battle before the final war/Blood became tears there in the garden/To fall upon the silent stones/There in the darkness the light and the darkness stood still/Two choices, one tortured will/There was the choice had been made/All the world could be saved by the One in the garden". What follows is the beautiful, classic hymn 'O Sacred Head'. It shows gratitude to Christ: "What Thou, my Lord, has suffered was all for sinners' gain/Mine, mine was the transgression/But Thine the deadly pain/Lo, here I fall my Savior!/'Tis I deserve Thy place/Look on me with Thy favor/Vouchsafe to me Thy grace". 'Why' reflects on Judas: "Why did it have to be a friend who chose to betray the Lord?/And why did he use a kiss to show them?/That's not what a kiss is for/Only a friend can betray a friend/A stranger has nothing to gain/And only a friend comes close enough to ever cause such pain".

Next up is 'Death of a Son', an easy listening ballad about Christ on the cross: "Why are You so far from saving me?/So far from the wounds of my groaning?/By night and by day I cry out in pain/So why do You not answer?.../I am a worm and no longer a man/Lama Sabachthani/They have pierced my feet and hands/Lama Sabachthani". 'Tears of the World' calls out to God: "So open my eyes and open my heart/And grant me the gift of Your grieving/And awaken in me the compassion to weep/Just one of the tears of the world". 'Crown Him' has more energy to it and recounts New Testament events: "So a circle of pain and love came down upon His head/It was not for anything He'd done nor for anything He'd said/For all His life He'd sought to show they were only living a lie/But they didn't care to hear or know/They just wanted Him to die".

'This Must Be the Lamb' is a lovely ballad about Calvary: "Like a sheep to the slaughter, so silently still/This must be the Lamb/The poor women weeping at what seemed a great loss/Trembling in fear there at the foot of the cross/Tormented by memories that came like a flood/Unaware that their pardon must be bought with His blood". 'All That Was Lost' proclaims Christ's victory: "He will claim His lost possession/Repossess you, pay the cost/He will purchase you for freedom/He will find all that was lost/So run and tell all those who have longed to hear/The wait is over/The risen Savior's here".

'Love Crucified Arose' is a song of great celebration: "Love crucified arose/The Risen One in splendor/Jehovah, Sole Defender has won the victory/Love crucified arose/And the grave became a place of hope/For the heart that sin and sorrow broke is beating once again". Closing out the concert is 'Only His Wounds Finale'. It's a ballad of spiritual invitation: "The day of the Lord, the promise foretold/The judgment upon us is soon to unfold/But still there is hope, the way has been made/Before us is Jesus, with power to save". 

A choir and strings enhance this live concert. It is moving, sincere, and passionate. It is evident that Michael Card is super grateful for Calvary, the atonement, and his salvation. Christ suffered greatly that our sins may be forgiven if we but ask, and that we might have eternal life in heaven. Not only did Christ suffer on the cross, but He also endured agony and betrayal in Gethsemane. Card doesn't end the story here though. He celebrates Jesus' resurrection and victory over sin and death. Satan is the ultimate loser. A VIOLENT GRACE is a great easy listening/folk project with a bit of praise and worship styling included. I'm rating this live project 90%. For more info visit www.michaelcard.com or connect with him on social media.

FIGHTER

MASS actually recorded their debut album, FIGHTER, in 1982 at Criteria Studios in Miami. Due to label and management troubles the album was not released. Well, fast forward to 2019 and No Life 'Til Metal Records has released it! Group members on the album are: Louis St. August (lead/backup vocals), Gene D'Itria (guitar/backup vocals), Kevin Varrio (bass guitar/backup vocals), and Joey 'Vee' Vadala. The album was produced by Tom Allom and MASS and executive produced by Bill Bafford. Scott Waters did a good job on the layout and design.

First up is a blazing metal song 'Watch Her Walk'. It's about a guy with no luck: "Say that you love me, said that you're mine/And now that I'm down here you ain't got the time/You got the power I've got the need/My heart is aching and ready to bleed.../All that I can do is watch her walk, watch her". 'Part of Me' includes great electric guitar work and is about an unattainable lady: "Show me the way to go on my own/Don't be afraid, cause you're not alone/Baby, I need you by my side and when I look I'm hypnotized/But you won't give anyone a chance/Afraid of a loss and a true romance".

'Too Far Gone' is a good metal track that finds a guy in despair: "Too many years, fast cars and beers/I had to beg, steal, and borrow/I lived my life without a fear/I live today for tomorrow/Too far gone, I'm too far gone, too far gone/I keep kicking my head for what I said/The way I am now/I'm better off dead! (3X)". A video for 'Do You Love Me' aired on MTV. This one's a melodic ballad that picks up steam as it goes along. It begins with these words of inquiry: "Do you love me?/Do you want me by your side?/Want to hold me girl?/Want to make me feel everything's right?/Do you need me?/Do you think that I'm the one?/Do you need me girl?/Do you want me girl?/I'll be there tonight".

'Voyager' is a metal song about undertaking a quest: "Though our journey's long/Our ship is strong as the men that sail aboard her/The power above watches over us as the forces that rock the sea/To the center of the earth, to the middle of the world/To find the truth of which we have heard/Look for the edge-in your heart you'll find your goal/Look for the edge-to the center of your soul". The title track, 'Fighter' is over six minutes long. It seems directed at an enemy: "There's blood in my eye, my back is to the wall/I see him coming closer/This sucker's gonna fall/Across through confusion, a brutal illusion/I know I'm not half the man I thought I was/Cause I'm a fighter!/Nobody's there by my side/A born tiger or is it just my foolish pride/That's gone and left me dry?"

Next up is 'Can You See it Again', a power ballad longing for a gal: "Don't you think it's time for us to be alone and together?/Don't you think that I had enough of being turned down as your lover?/Forever!/So come on Cheryl/Hang up the phone cause I really can't wait/No I really can't wait, alone!" 'Slip of the Lip' is a short rocker with these unfortunate lyrics: "Sex is my direction and I'm aiming it at you.../You've got to give me what I want/You've got to give me what I need/You've got to give me what I crave before you drive me in my grave".

'Change Your Way' includes these thoughts: "To love will bring you pain/May sadness and sorrow be the gift for tomorrow". Last up is 'Bad Man's Reputation', inspired by a former manager of the band who screwed them over. It's a blazing metal song: "He's got a bad man's reputation/He's gonna fill you up with lies/He's got a high school education, but everybody says he tries.../Bad man's reputation/Look into his eyes tonight/Bad man's reputation-I think he's getting ready to fight!"

If you enjoy the vocals of Stryper's Michael Sweet, you'll like those of Louis St. August here. They both know how to scream for added effect. Musically this has 80's hair metal written all over it! The majority of the songs are fast paced, or start off slow and become fast. St. August and the band deliver these ten tracks with much passion and energy. Male-female relationships are the most common subject matter. Several songs are about a guy desiring a gal to feel the same way romantically for him as he does for her. Lust and love are intertwined here. There are also songs about searching for meaning in life and trying to endure to the end. I'm rating FIGHTER 80%. For more info visit www.massrocks.com and www.nolifetilmetalrecords.com.

There are also seven Criteria Studios Rough Mixes tagged on after the album proper ends. Collectors will appreciate these! One is the previously unreleased track 'Where Will You Be'. The Bonus Track 'Holy One (Live)' ends things off. It's a Christian metal song about a battle between evil and good.

WEAPONS OF GOD

Ohio's Weapons of God have released their debut album of the same name on Roxx Records in 2019. It was produced by Luke Nealigh of BioGenesis and executive produced by Bill Bafford. The band's roster is listed as: Steve McGowan (vocals, guitars, keyboards), Leon Black (vocals, guitars), Ed Girard (bass guitar), and Greg Alan (drums). On their official website they quote Psalm 144:1 which reads: "Blessed be the Lord, my rock, who trains my hands for war, and my fingers for battle".

Starting things off is the hard rocking 'Are You Ready?'. It points to Christ as life's ultimate answer: "His Name will reign forever/My Father, my Savior/Creator, Deliverer/He is the Master, the Healer/The Author, the Perfecter of our faith/Are you ready?.../In a blink of an eye/He will come like a thief in the night/It's a matter of time/Don't be the one left behind". 'Call Your Name' is a power praise song: "My life is never going to be the same again/Since You got a hold of me/Never returning to the place where it began/Because it was You that set me free".

'Glory And The Power' is a pounding metal track that exalts God unashamedly: "Upon that cross He died for me/For my sins He set me free/Praise Him today! (2X).../The Holy Spirit is with you, yeah/Band of angels singing everywhere/He's got a love that lasts forever". 'Ghost' is the longest song clocking in at over eight and a half minutes long. It starts slow but gains speed musically. Also, it contrasts unclean spirits with God's: "Ghost in you, Ghost in me/I can feel it deep inside/The Holy Spirit starts to rise/I was walking with the demons/Talking to the dead/Searching for the reasons/I should have looked to You instead/You opened my eyes/And You made it all so clear/The only ghost, the Holy Ghost/I do not fear".

'Heaven Can't Wait' is a hard rock song of spiritual invitation: "There's a better way to come alive/Take His hand, leave it all behind/He can take you to His Holy place/And save you with His Holy grace/Heaven can't wait (2X)/Trust in His faith before it's too late/It's not God that sends you to hell/It's only you that sends yourself/Heaven can't wait". 'Simple Solution' is a pulsating rocker that shares the Gospel: "Unto this earth a child is born/Who will die for our sins for everyone/So, let it be written, let it be done/God sent His only beloved Son/Jesus, my Prince of Peace/Blessed is His Name/My Savior forever".

Next up is 'Saving Grace', a pretty praise and worship number: "Oh, Jesus, You are my saving grace/You are my shining light/That guides me on my darkest days/You are my love, You are my life/You are my Savior Jesus Christ/My Friend for eternity and I love You". 'Angry' is a meaty metal track with these intriguing lyrics: "This anger, it runs deep/My patience so thin/This anger, it runs deep/This anger, is not sin/Purge it out from inside/Force control again/My God, my peace is in You/My anger is in men".

The title track, 'Weapons of God', follows. It's almost six and a half minutes long. It's a strong metal cut about spiritual warfare: "With every devotion we will defeat/The ways of temptation the devil will bring/Stand firm, stand strong with God's armor on/We are the weapons, the weapons of God.../With the shield of faith and the helmet of salvation/We will stand against hate and all temptation". The songs ends with the sound of a storm and rain. Last up is 'Fade Away', a quieter tune that reflects on an old man: "Where's his family and his friends?/Did he have any kids?/He just sits there day to day/For God to take Him away/And it makes me wonder/It makes me think/If one day that could happen to me/To know I got no place to go/When I'm all alone". This track also ends with a storm.

WEAPONS OF GOD is an awesome hard rock/metal album with great vocals and electric guitar work! Although there are a few laid back moments, for the most part this is a heavy album musically. The band makes it clear that salvation and eternal life in heaven are only found through Jesus Christ. He is the answer to life's troubles and questions and worthy of our praise. He alone can make us new creations and we can have His Holy Spirit living in our lives. We can use the spiritual weapons of warfare that God gives us to defeat the devil and temptation. I'm rating this album 98% and recommending it to fans of Stryper, Deliverance, and Liaison. For more info visit www.weaponsofgodmusic.com and www.roxxproductions.com.

BLOOD

Red Sea released one album called BLOOD on Rugged Records in 1994. The group's roster was Robyn Kyle Basauri (vocals, some percussion), Chris 'Howell' Sorenson (guitars, dobro, 12-string acoustic and slide), Greg Chaisson (electric bass), and Jeff Martin (acoustic drums). You may know some of these guys from the bands Die Happy, Fear Not, and Badlands. Fast forward to 2019 and Roxx Records has re-issued the album! Scott Waters did a great job on the cover art!

The album starts off with 'Soulshaker', a powerful metal track about an encounter with Jesus: "There stands a man with eyes of fire/Looking through your heart's desire/Sayin' 'Leave the world you know behind/It's gonna blow your mind'/Soul shaker, soul shaker/Fire in your brain/Drivin' you insane/Soul shaker, heart breaker/It's gonna bring you to your knees/Satisfaction guaranteed/Tonight, tonight". 'Blood' is a great hard rocker about redemption: "Now take a look around you/Tell me what it is you see/I see the masses crying out to be set free/Can you feel it coming?/In the name of love/I see a new day dawning/Rolling like a river, flowing to a sea of/Blood, blood, blood, cover my life with the blood (2X)". 'Wolves at the Door' runs over seven minutes long. It includes a nice electric guitar solo and calls out to Christ: "Take it or leave it/The truth, the life, the way/You'd better believe it/Lord, Lord save this poor gone soul".

'Dust to Dust' is a rock ballad that testifies: "Born a child of mercy/Bred by the powers that move the seas/When my day is done and my time has finally come/From the ashes Your love will carry me/Formed from the dust of the earth and water/Fed by the fire that quenched my soul/I've held the hand that holds back the rain and it set me free to rest in peace". 'Last Days of Winter' is a slow cut reminding us to be careful what kind of foundation we build our lives on: "See the old man/His withered mind/Built his fortress in the sand/And in a moment's time/Swept up by the tide/All his wealth slips through his hands". The song builds in intensity.

Next up is 'Hellbound Train'. It paints a morbid picture of where the unsaved will spend eternity: "The Helltrain runs through the night/The wheels keep turning/The fires keep burning/Once around a long way down/Miles down from heaven/Alone on this Hell-bound train.../Burnin', burnin' alive/Burnin', no one survives this ride". Bob Bancalri plays the Hammond organ on 'Shades of Purple'. It's a chug-a-long metal track about suicide: "My mind is busy spinnin'/As I see the reaper grinning in my head/As I lie here barely breathin'/I can see the ground beneath me turning red/I can hear the sirens blaring/As I take my last breath starin' at the sky".

'Walk on Fire' is about a guy wanting his girl back. It's a hard rock number: "Every time I see your face I remember your ways/Every time I cross that line I swear on my life/I'd walk on fire, miles and miles/Walk on fire to get to you/If the flames burned higher/I'd walk that wire to get to you". 'Losin' My Way' puts full trust in God: "I believe in Your ways till the end of my days/You are my shelter/To You I pray when I'm losin', losin' my way/I seek Your wisdom to search what I must find, I must find/I seek Your vision to be my eyes when I am blind, so blind".

'Down Home Static' is a one minute filler. Last up is 'Tears of Joy', on which Mark Clark plays church organ. It's a bluesy rock song that offers good advice: "Cry those tears of joy/Let them fall on down your face/Love has been my saving grace/Cry those tears of joy/Please remember baby/Love is gonna guide your way back home".

To me, the definite strengths of BLOOD are the strong lead vocals and the great musicianship on this hard rock/metal release. The lyrics are written so as not to be preachy, yet get the message of God's love and plans for us, through to the listeners. I applaud the band for tackling the subjects of hell and suicide. Life without Christ is shown to be empty. The good news though is that God is waiting for us to run to Him and gain eternal life, peace, and hope! If we build our lives on the foundation of Jesus Christ we can weather the storms of life. The CD booklet contains individual photos of each band member. I'm rating BLOOD 86% and recommending it to fans of Bride and Guardian. For more info visit www.roxxproductions.com and connect with the band on social media.

SEARCH & DESTROY

Philadelphia is a Christian hard rock/metal band hailing from Shreveport, Louisiana. They put out their debut album, TELL THE TRUTH, in 1984. The next year they followed this up with SEARCH & DESTROY, a concept album about a young guy, Bobby. Fast forward to 2019 and Roxx Records has re-issued the album. The Cd booklet includes some killer artwork by fans. Philadelphia is: Brian Clark (bass and vocals), Brian Martini (drums), Phil Scholling (guitars), and Ronn Flowers (guitars). James A. Griffin produces, while Bill Bafford executive produces.

First up is the blazing metal title track 'Search & Destroy' which begins with the sound of a siren. This song describes the devil and his intentions: "Deadly lion on the prowl/Sharpened teeth, fearsome growl/Through the night he rides the wind/Seeking to devour, the claws extend/Another victim in his hands/Search and destroy/Prince of the air, false Messiah/Angel of light.../You will die without the Son". 'Bobby's Song' is a melodic rock song describing his situation: "Oh, what can you say when he turns love away and he's all on his own?/Outside he's so tough but inside it's a bluff and he feels so alone/When Bobby gets high his whole world is bright/But emptiness waits just like a chilly night". 'Oh My Boy' is a rock ballad on which God declares His love for the lost Bobby: "Oh my boy/The world will be so cold to you/I can tell the pain that you'll be going through/Just remember everyday/My love will find a way/You're my boy/You're my boy, such a part of Me/You belong/It's just we two". There's some great electric guitar work here!

'Judgment Day' rocks, talks of child abuse, and offers hope: "Bobby knows, he won't tell/It's a torture that destroys/Mom and Daddy made a hell/It's big enough for a little boy/Jesus loves the little children and there will be hell to pay/Their wounded spirits cry for justice/And they call it judgment day". 'Mirror Man' is a good metal song that calls out the devil: "Evil master, ruler of this world/Cruel eyes watching as your wicked plans unfurl/Captive innocents, wrap themselves in chains/Blinded by your deadly touch/They'll never be the same.../'Take all you can' you said/'Nobody cares for you/They're looking out for No. 1'/And I believed it too". 'Fastrack' finds Bobby wanting nothing to do with God: "Fastrack livin', I'm livin the way I please/Fastrack livin', I'm tending to my needs.../You're gonna tell me 'Jesus loves me'/I've got no time for God above me".

Next up is 'Showdown', a rock song that proves God's love and finds Bobby softening his heart: "I'm not going to hide any longer/I've run so far/I'm runnin' no further.../I can't believe He's come to me/He's sayin' He loves me/A rebel son, with all I've done/But the Risen One/He holds out His hands to me". 'Decision Time' gives Bobby a choice: "One man has borne the cross/He was God, He took the loss and He broke the power of Satan/Crushed Him to the ground/Will you still conspire, consumed in holy fire/Is it evil or the truth you desire?/It's decision time.../Only Christ can save". The CD only bonus track 'Losin' Out' closes things out. It contrasts Christians with Christ: "But if they receive so freely why can't they as freely give?/And if their hearts are so full of Jesus why don't they freely love like He did?"

SEARCH & DESTROY is a must have album for fans of Christian hard rock and metal. It simply tells the story of a young guy who is troubled, going through life. He is caught in spiritual warfare. Satan tells him he's worth nothing and seeks the destruction of his soul. God calls out to him telling him he's of great value and is perfectly loved and can have eternal life through Christ. Each of us have to make a choice who we will ultimately give control of our lives to as well. The lead singer's voice reminds me a bit of Greg X. Volz if he were to sing this style of music, I'm rating this one 95%. For more info visit www.roxxproductions.com and connect with the band on social media.

FIRST LOVE

Larnelle Steward Harris was born on July 6, 1947 in Danville, Kentucky. In the 70's he put out a couple of albums with First Gear. He's also been a member of the Gaither Vocal Band. He released his solo debut, TELL IT TO JESUS, in 1975. In '83 and '85 he won Grammys for the duets with Sandi Patty, 'More Than Wonderful' and 'I've Just Seen Jesus'. Fast forward to 1998 and he put out FIRST LOVE (Brentwood). It was produced by Greg Nelson and executive produced by Dean Diehl.

Greg Nelson and David Hamilton wrote the album opener 'Blessing and Honor'. It's an upbeat praise and worship song: "Blessing and honor to our God/Lift up the name of Jesus/He has redeemed us from this world/He is the One who saves us/Oh, worthy is the Lamb to receive/Power, glory, and riches/Praise, wisdom, and might/Blessing and dominion/Now until forever". Vicki Hampton, Chris Rodriguez, and Bob Bailey provide backing vocals on 'Change in Me', a good pop song. These words speak of life transformation: "There's been a change in me/What more can I say?/I've got a brand new way of walking/And a brand new way of talking/He's given me the gift of eternity/It's easy to see that Jesus made this change in me".

The next two songs each surpass the six minute mark. Kyle Matthews wrote 'I Want to Go'. It desires fellowship: "I want to go where You are going, Lord/I want to be among Your people where You are/I cannot live my life alone/I don't know how/But You would not bring me this far to leave me now". 'When God Calls' was written by Greg Nelson and Bob Farrell. This inspirational number makes clear God's intentions towards us: "From that moment in the garden/When He first created man/He has longed that we should know Him/And prosper at His hand/So He draws us to His presence/And brings us to His light".

'Were it not for Grace' is a testimonial: "Were it not for grace/I can tell you where I'd be/Wandering down some pointless road to nowhere with my salvation up to me/I know how that would go/The battles I would face/Forever running but losing the race/Were it not for grace". 'Beginning With You' is one of two songs penned solely by Larnelle. It uses horns and additional vocals by NewSong Choral Ensemble. It's an upbeat pop song that urges us to action: "If you want a world that's more loving/Then you've got to love somebody/You want to be in a world that's more caring/Then reach out and help somebody/You'll make the world a better place/Beginning with you".

Next up is 'All Along the Way'. I love these words from this ballad: "All along the way His faithfulness remains/And all along the way/His message never changes/As I cried out to Him/With love He took me in/And I've been carried/All along the way". Larnelle, Dave Clark, and Don Koch wrote the title cut, 'First Love'. This pop song finds Larnelle wanting to come back to Christ: "I'm going back to my first love/For the fire burns and my heart still yearns to go back to my first love/I never should have walked away.../To find the peace that's waiting up ahead/I've got to go back to my first love".

'I Believe, Help My Unbelief' is a quiet song with lyrics many of us can relate to: "I believe, Lord, help my unbelief/Give the vision that I may see/That I am safe in Your care/Oh Lord, when I'm running ahead of You/When I'm trusting this world for truth/Remind me that You do what You say/And You're all that You claim/I believe, Lord, help my unbelief". Greg Nelson and Phil McHugh wrote the closing song 'Look at His Glorious Cross'. It points to Christ's sacrifice for us: "Look at His glorious cross/Here is the gateway to heaven/Opened at last for the lost/See such a price for the sins of mankind/And His love is paying the cost/Towering over history/Look at His glorious cross".

FIRST LOVE displays Larnelle's vocals wonderfully. Seven of the songs are inspirational, while three are pop. One main theme is a desire for fellowship with God and His people. Another is gratitude for salvation. What a wondrous gift! God totally changes our lives if we but let Him. He desires to be ever active in our lives. This album exalts the Lord Jesus Christ. I recommend it to fans of David Phelps and Twila Paris. It's getting a perfect 100% from me. For more info visit www.larnelle.com and connect with him on social media. There are several handsome pictures of Larnelle in the CD booklet.

I CAN BEGIN AGAIN

Larnelle Steward Harris was born on July 6, 1947 in Danville, Kentucky. In 1972 and 1974 he put out albums with the group First Gear. In 1975 he released his solo debut, TELL IT TO JESUS. Fast forward to 1989 and I CAN BEGIN AGAIN (Benson) came out. It was produced by Greg Nelson and executive produced by Dan Cleary.

Jerome Olds wrote the beautiful inspirational ballad 'Mighty Spirit'. It's one of spiritual invitation: "There is a mighty Spirit/Shining out across the sky/He's calling out the weary to green pastures come and lie/There is a mighty Spirit/Crossing barren land/He's sowing love unceasing/Fresh fruit spring from the sand (2X)". Larnelle co-wrote the title track, 'I Can Begin Again', with Dave Clark. Alan Pasqua plays the B-3 organ on this great adult contemporary ballad about second chances: "I can begin again with the passion of a child/My heart has caught a vision of a life that's still worthwhile/I can reach out again/Far beyond what I have done/Like a dreamer who's awakened to a life that's yet to come/For new beginnings are not just for the young". 'Friends in High Places' reflects on heavenly things: "I've got friends in high places/And I'm gonna be with them someday/There's the Father right by His Son/And the angels, each and everyone/And other friends I miss so much and I long to see/But knowing I'll be with them one day comforts me".

'In It After All' uses oboe, flute, bassoon, clarinet, and flugle horn. It's about the faithfulness of God: "So You were in it after all/All of those moments I spent crying/When something inside of me was dying/I didn't know that You heard me/Each time I called/You had a reason for those trials/It seems I grew stronger every mile/Now I know You were in it after all". Janet McMahan-Wilson and Ted Wilson wrote 'Let His Children Rejoice'. It's a good praise and worship song: "Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good/Come feast upon His Word/Tell of His wonders in all the earth/Let His Name be heard/Let His children rejoice/For He is Lord of creation/Let His children rejoice/And sing a song of salvation". First Call and Guy Penrod are among the backing vocalists on 'There is No Equal'. It's fast paced and testifies: "There is no equal to You O God/Above all others supremely You reign/The whole of heaven and earth stands in awe/There is no equal to You, O God/There is no equal/Without rival/No contender/Who is like You, O Lord".

'Rhoda' is the only song here solely penned by Larnelle. It uses horns and David Maddux provides backing vocals. This R&B cut draws from the New Testament: "Rhoda was so excited/And she shared it through many words/Though her testimony wasn't believed/She was convinced of what she'd heard/Peter kept right on knocking/With worry on His face/Finally Rhoda opened the door/And all of her doubters just stood there amazed". Next up is 'You're My Child'. I like this first verse: "As flowers long for sunshine/And as deserts thirst for rain/That's how much a Father longs/To shield His child from pain/That's not how life happens/Still I hope that you will see/That I am never far away/For you're a part of Me/You're my child". Last up is the Phil McHugh penned 'The Strength of the Lord'. It's a quiet song offering good advice: "It's not in trying but in trusting/It's not in running but in resting/Not in wondering but in praying/That we find the strength of the Lord/He's all we need/For our every need".

Seven of the nine songs on I CAN BEGIN AGAIN fall into the inspirational category, so Steve Green fans will be pleased. There's also one adult contemporary and one R&B song. Larnelle is a wonderful vocalist and has been in the Gaither Vocal Band. This album invites us to come to Christ and to start life over with a clean slate. God is faithful, good, and great. We can confidently put our trust in Him during life's difficult times. He hears our prayers even when it seems to us He doesn't. I'm rating this album a 95%. For more info visit www.larnelle.com and/or connect with him on social media.

THESE DAYS

Sandra Faye 'Sandi' Patty was born on July 12, 1956 in Oklahoma City. Her first album was 1978's FOR MY FRIENDS. Fast forward to 2000 and she released THESE DAYS (Word/Epic). In the liner notes, she writes: "Some people reflectively say, 'Ah...those were the good old days'. I must confess that while I treasure the memories of those days, I am enjoying the moments in these days. I want to find the joy in every situation in every moment of every day".

Eric Laughlin and Lori Lyon Kitts wrote the upbeat pop song 'Wouldn't Trade it for the World'. It testifies: "I wouldn't trade it for the world/This love You give me/Now I have a reason to sing/Look at how my heart leaps before You/You're music to me/I'm dancing to the rhythm of Your mercy/Movin' to the motion of Your grace/Livin' in Your presence/Wouldn't trade it for the world". 'Go Without Knowing' is an easy listening ballad featuring the Nashville String Machine. Sandi reveals her heart's desire: "If my life could be all my life should be/I would learn to trust God/At every turn/I would hear His words/And my heart would surrender then/Truly depend on Him/I'd go without knowing/Do without doubting/Face without fearing/Any road in front of me". 'Solo El Amor (Only Love)' is an adult contemporary bilingual duet with Miguel Angel Guerra. These are powerful lyrics: "For love He drank of His Father's cup/With all my shame on His shoulders/And He offered forgiveness through His shed blood/Tell me, is it any wonder that I've only known once in my lifetime love in its purest form?/He came here for me, suffered and then died/Under a crown of thorns".

Kathy Troccoli, Jeff Franzel, and Rick Witkowski wrote 'Shine'. The Kid Connection add vocals to this great pop song about fulfilling the Great Commission: "I want to be Your love for every soul/I want to be the hands that hold out hope/I want to bring Your life to every heart/If I could only mirror who You are/Let me be the star at night/Burning with eternal light/So high". Chris Eaton and Chris Rodriguez wrote 'Wings of Peace' on which Michelle Tumes and Brent Bourgeois sing backing vocals. It's easy listening and puts faith in the Lord: "Through every season one truth remains/You will always hide me in Your heart/You will always open up Your arms and carry me/High on Your wings on peace".

Ed DeGarmo and Bob Farrell wrote 'Once and For All'. It rejoices in the atonement: "Once and for all You gave it all/You held out Your hand to me/My destiny/You tore down the wall/Once and for all/Built between God and man/Love made me understand/You came, You died to save the world/For our hearts great and small/Once and for all". The next song, 'All This Time (Anna's Song)' is for Sandi's daughter. It's a tender, sentimental ballad: "Remembering the years/All this time/Moving through the pages of life/You have been a joy to me/Blooming in the sun and the rain/Holding you through laughter and pain/As you dance I delight/I have loved you all this time".

'Candles' uses a choir and classical guitar and includes vocals by Steve Crawford of Anointed. This melodic song is about making a difference for God: "Sometimes we're candles in the night/Shining someone home/We may not know their name/But we're praying for their soul/Cause we're candles in the night/Pushing back the dark/Reaching for their hearts/We're candles in the night". Next up is a cover of The Imperials classic 'One More Song For You' penned by Stormie and Michael Omartian. It's a light pop song about being a beacon: "As long as there is time and one more breath left in me/There will always be one more song for You/And as long as there is room/For one more song in praise/And a need for a word of love and truth/To help my brother and sister through/There'll be one more song for You".

'These Are the Days' is a quiet devotional song: "It's like the moment when the sun wakes up the night/I'm stretching out to heaven/Reaching for Your light/A chance to say 'I love You'/The perfect entrance to the day/And as I pray in Your quietness/Reflecting on Your grace/These are the days that I wish to never end/When I wake within Your presence/When we make the day begin". Last up is 'In the Calm'. Scott Krippayne and Tony Wood wrote it and John Catchings plays cello. It finds Sandi desiring intimacy with God: "Let Your Word speak to me/Let Your Spirit draw near/I will obey/The truth that I hear". 

THESE DAYS is a wonderful album comprised of seven easy listening and four pop songs. Eight of the eleven songs are slow. God's love and goodness towards us are celebrated! Calvary is pointed to as the place where God's love for us was fully displayed. The importance of sharing God's love with others is made clear here. God is worthy of our total trust in Him. This is, for the most part, a soothing and meditative album. Fans of Steve Green and Twila Paris should give this project, which I'm rating a perfect 100%, a listen. For more info visit www.sandipatty.com or connect with her on social media.