ALL WE NEED

     It's been eleven years since Rachael Lampa first appeared on the CCM radar, and some seven years since her last full length album of all new material.  On ALL WE NEED Rachael co-writes six of the twelve tracks.  It was released in 2011 by 220 Entertainment Group.  In the liner notes she writes: "Jesus-thank You for my gifts, the gifts of others, and the gift of their presence in my life."
     The title track starts things off, and is a rousing song with influences of Pink, that displays a reliance on God: "Journey is the destination/Just let me see through Your eyes/Even though I'm searching, even though I'm searching/You're my guiding light/Let the blind and broken see" and "I don't know the answers hidden in the questions but I know that I believe/Follow in Your footsteps/Find me in the darkness falling to my knees." 'Remedy' is soulful and finds her assured in her faith: "Every time I cry and I wanna hide/Feeling like I'm damaged on the inside/You know just what to do/You've got what I need/You're the remedy" and "Jesus Your love is my hope, my hope/You're my remedy, You're my remedy."  One of the writers of 'Savior's Face' is Ben Glover.  It features nice keys and speaks of God's transforming power: "Do you have an ugly scar/Do you have a damaged heart/Did you know that that don't make you who you are?/It doesn't define you/All I wanna do is remind you that/And all this time we waste thinking about the past/And what we've done/He don't remember that/We sold our souls but he bought us back." Encouraging words!  'Beauty's just a Word' slows things down musically and tells us there is a purpose for the hard times in our lives: "It's dark so you can see the light and it's hard so you can know it's right/And pain nothing ever grows without you/And hurt is just a chance to heal/And tears are just a call to feel/And pain beauty's just a word without you."
     'No Escape' is good to clap along to and features horns.  It is about a prodigal being found: "Tried to go where You wouldn't find me/Tried to hide when I saw Your face/Hoping You'd just forget my name/I woke up and Your love revived me/I was running backwards/'Til my heart was captured."  'Unchartered Territory' is midtempo and documents a girl unsure of herself: "I'm usually not the one/To be afraid, hesitate, second guess/What I've done/Am I overthinking it, complicating it/Should I let go or let it be?/Never done this before/How am I supposed to know where to go from here?"  The next two songs are two of my favourites.  'Elevate' is uplifting and about reaching your full potential: "In my dreams I've seen the view, and life above the clouds is beautiful/Don't let the circumstances keep you down/You might just lose your chance to leave the ground."  'My One and Only' is a highly danceable song of praise to God: "You rescued me from the weight of the world and I want You to know/You are my one and only/You're not like the rest/I know that You've got my back/You are, You are/You are my one and only/Right from the start You saved my damaged heart."
     'Run to You' is partially written by Taio Cruz and is a ballad about finding hope and comfort in God: "Whenever there's pain in my soul/Whenever I'm losing control/And feeling like I'm all alone/Whenever I'm lost and confused/Whenever it's hard to break through/The only thing left I can do is run/I run to You always."  'Feel' is a ballad that builds that I'd like to hear Carrie Underwood do.  It has Rachael longing for someone who understands her: "I don't need for you to try to fix the world this time/I just want your heart to break every time I cry/Stop the music, don't say a word/Cause what I need right now is something real/I just need to feel."  Two bonus tracks follow.  'Human' features Jonny Lang and looks at the imperfections and limitations of people: "What would you do if you knew the truth?/When you find out it wasn't me that hung the moon/I'm not responsible for making flowers bloom/Didn't separate night from day or make the ocean blue/What will you do when you find out I'm human too?"  The album concludes with a modernized version of Lampa's hit 'Live for You' from her debut project.  It is written by industry vets Chris Eaton and Chris Rodriguez and contains these words we can draw confidence from: "You know everything about me/Before my life began/You held me in Your hand/You have walked these roads before me/You have known the pain a broken heart can bear/Won't You help me now to trust You?" 
     ALL WE NEED will appeal to fans of Lady Gaga, Mariah Carey, and Christina Aguilera.  It is a smart, consistent pop album with meaningful messages.  The photographs of Rachael Lampa are gorgeous, as is my daughter whom I named after her.  I'm rating ALL WE NEED 82.5%.  For more info visit: http://www.rachaellampa.com/, http://www.220entertainmentgroup.com/, and http://www.embracedbygrace.org/.

ON THE ALTAR OF LOVE

     In a press release regarding Downhere's latest project ON THE ALTAR OF LOVE (2011, Centricity Music), the following words are written: "As students of history, Jeremy, Jason, Marc and Glenn have come to recognize and appreciate the fact that their faith is not simply their own-but that it's part of a much larger communion of believers that stretches across cultures and thousands of years."  This album is an examination of that faith.
     'Only the Beginning' sounds like it could be the theme song of a movie and presents life as a passionate pursuit: "This is only the beginning/Press ahead forget what's behind, forget what's behind/And the good work He is still perfecting/A new name, a new dream, a new life/And this is only the beginning/This is only the beginning."  'Rest' is a radio friendly invitation to find peace in the person of Christ: "Come to Me, you tired and heavy-laden/Come to Me with all your weariness/Here with Me is where you'll find your haven/And I will give you rest/Yes, I will give you rest."  'Let me Rediscover You' is powerful and marvels at God's greatness: "How can I say I know You/When what I know is still so small?/Let me cry 'Holy, Holy, Holy'/Let me awaken to Your majesty/And see a glimmer of Your glory/Let me abide in You/Let me rediscover You."  'For Life' is a poetic song that reflects on things to be thankful for: "For a pretty girl and for falling in love, oh love/For spring ice churning the driftwood shore/For birdsong air and windswept hair/For fiddle head strings and flower bows" and "For everything revealed to see/For what's kept in mystery, oh Lord/From the finer things to the shirt on my back/The less I have the less I lack."
     'Living the Dream' has a circus type feel to it and highlights the importance of having a positive attitude: "As for me, I'm singing a new song/I'm not gonna dwell inside some alternate reality/I feel free-I'm making the best of it/Seeing with eyes that find the heart and soul of true beauty" and "Every day Love makes the promise/That we can be great if we want it/And we are living the dream/Highs and lows we'll take on together/Choosing joy whatever the weather."  'Seek' is a pop/rock song that offers this advice to humanity: "The call left unanswered/Will quickly take its toll/Seek while He may be found/Delight in Him in these times/This is the invitation/We've been waiting for/Seek while He may be found/Call on Him while He's near/Don't you fear, He won't hide."  'Glory by the Way of Shame' is a ballad about the power of forgiveness: "She cheated on him twice but for fear she never told/She finally confessed before her heart ran cold/With pain in his eyes, he walked out of the house and drove to town/Bought her a white wedding dress/Came home to her and danced."  'Holy' is a worshipful modern hymn: "You bore my shame/And in death carried my sin/Worthy Lamb, who gave Your life/Now, I can live again/Who was and is and is to come/The Father, Spirit, and the Son/Holy, holy, holy One/Holy, holy God."
     'For the Heartbreak' has a happy sound to it and shows evidence of a mature faith: "Thank You for the heartbreak/Thank You for the pain/Thank You for the sadness/On the gloomy days of rain/Thank You that the hard times/Have a reason and rhyme/Thank You that the healing makes the beauty shine/Thank You for the heartbreak."  'Turn this Around' is a midtempo request for divine intervention in one's life: "I feel the toxins in my veins/And deeper routed through my heart/I don't want to stay the same/If there's healing for the broken/Save me from me/I'm calling on the Man of Sorrows, acquainted with grief/Can You make a change in me?"  'The Altar of Love' is a magnificent song of true surrender to God that features the fiddle: "Lay down your idols/Lay down your possessions/Lay down your shrines and/Your worldly obsessions/Love will ask of you more than treasure/When you're willing to trust/Blessing far outweighs the loss when you lay it all/You lay it all on the Altar of Love/In the holiest room/Where the curtain was torn/By the ultimate wound/Oh, the Altar of Love/Where the glory resides."  'Reveal the Kingdom' has a laid back feel to it and reveals a desire to live life with an eternal perspective: "Be Thou our strength, to carry through/The hope of grace and bear the truth/As we wait for You to.../Reveal the unseen Kingdom/The glory of the new Son/Where ever more His love imparts/The kingdom in our hearts/Reveal the Kingdom."
     The black and white photography of the four bearded bandmates in period costuming on the album cover and in the booklet are a nice artistic touch.  ON THE ALTAR OF LOVE is a very strong Christian rock record produced by Mark Heimermann. I'm rating it 90% and recommending it to fans of Sanctus Real, Kevin Max, and Mercy Me.  For more info visit http://www.downhere.com/ or http://www.centricitymusic.com/.

NOT HERSELF ANYMORE

     In the liner notes of her major label debut, NOT MYSELF ANYMORE (2011, BEC Recordings), Jessa Anderson lays out the purpose of her music: "It is my deepest desire that Your love for humanity be spread through these songs and that Your glory be known."  'Not What I Thought' begins the album on an upbeat, victorious note: "And You're not what I thought when I saw You/I had been running for so long/But now I've got something else, something more/That I know will fill the empty up/Cause You're not what I thought/No You're not what I thought."  'Fireflies' is a delightful pop song about the light of God: "You're breaking through the darkness/I'm like a child/Standing in amazement/Here in the night/You shine brighter than fireflies/Caught up in the mystery/I can't deny everything around me reflects Your light/You shine brighter than fireflies."  'Everybody has those Days' is bouncy and about having a lousy day and feeling down on yourself: "I'm feeling alone and I'm feeling like sort of a mess/Can't make sense of anything" and "You know I'm really more the clumsy type/Always making mistakes/The harder I try to be careful the bigger the break."  'Worship the Lamb' is a Sunday morning friendly song of praise: "There is nothing I could say/I could sing/To give an adequate description of my glorious King/For You are indescribable" and "All I am at my best/I am merely a breath/All I am at my best/I am merely a breath for You."
     'The Same Place' is about someone finding themself in a difficult position: "Trade your problems for the pain/Of knowing that you walked away/No longer participate/You made another big mistake/Didn't anybody ever say/We all lie in the bed we make?"  'Not Myself Anymore' is a piano ballad showcasing Jessa's vocals.  It explores the pain involved in a relationship ending: "I can't seem to figure out why/I'm not myself anymore/And I cry all the time/And you, you're unaccountably gone/You've got no explanation for leaving me alone/Well maybe we shouldn't have let it go on for so long."  'I Won't Break' is a guitar and percussion driven rocker.  The flavour in Jessa's voice really shows here in this song about a relationship gone sour: "And I've been wondering when it all fell apart on me/And how I didn't see it coming/In the least baby/I gather miles and put them up on display/Pretend I'm shiny, new and tell the world I've changed."  'Moving On' is a song of encouragement I could hear Taylor Swift doing: "Stop your worry now/Just be strong/Be strong/Leave your fear behind/We're moving on/Moving on."
     'Offering' is a mid tempo song of gratitude to God: "I believe in a purpose intended for the life You breathe only in me/I needed someone to fight and defend me/And salvage what's buried beneath" and "You alone are perfect by nature/Passionate lover, redeemer, and friend/Who am I to inherit this treasure?/A place in Your infinite rest."  'Don't Know' is a song of self-examination and is about a desire to hide one's real self from others: "So why do I feel the need to hide myself behind/A veil that doesn't show/Who I am inside?" and "Does anybody see me here?/Does anybody, anybody care?/Does anybody hear me now?"  The album closes with 'Return' which is a prescription for a fulfilling life and has a poetic feel to it: "We have been running away/We have been hiding/We have been making mistakes/And then denying/All of the things that make us who we are/Fallen from grace and then restored" and "We are unwilling and we are cold/For fear the darkness will be exposed/But if we hold on to all our secrets/We only forfeit/Our chance at freedom."
     NOT MYSELF ANYMORE is a strong pop debut from Jessa Anderson.  I recommend it to fans of Ke$ha, ZOEgirl, Everlife, and Cheri Keaggy.  I'm rating it an 85%.  The album cover is a gorgeous portrait of Jessa.  For more info visit http://www.jessaanderson.com/ and http://www.becrecordings.com/.

SARA'S INVISIBLE EMPIRES

     Listening to an album by Sara Groves is always a pleasant, thought provoking experience.  Her tenth album INVISIBLE EMPIRES (2011, Fair Trade Services) is no exception.  'Miracle' is soothing and piano based: "Lay down your arms/Give up the fight/Quiet our hearts for a little while" and "Let's heal where we couldn't heal/Oh it's a miracle/Love is a miracle."  'Obsolete' is mellow and about struggling with insecurities and finding identity in God: "And you don't know where you stand/And you feel so small and thin/And if you are dismissed/Will another take you in?" and "Are we walking through the streets of invisible empires?/And I know I shouldn't care if I'm out or if I'm in/Cause if I am dismissed You always take me in."  'I'll Wait' is a radio friendly pop song about the importance of seeking the Lord's direction: "I'll wait for You now more than ever/I see it's true now more than ever/I'll wait for You/I don't want to do this by myself/I know I need Your help/And so I'm waiting for You."  'Scientists in Japan' reflects on the power of science and offers a word of caution before proceeding to the next advancement: "Eyes wide open and our jaw on the floor/We see science fiction ain't fiction no more" and "Who's gonna stay here and think about it?/Who's gonna stay, who's gonna stay?"
     'Open my Hands' features acoustic guitar and speaks of a deep trust in God: "I believe in a peace that flows deeper than pain/The broken find healing in love/Pain is no measure of His faithfulness/He withholds no good thing from us" and "I am nodding my head an emphatic yes to all that You have for me."  'Precious Again' is a plea for spiritual revival: "Where is the wonder?/Oh sing me the song that's never old/Oh tell me the story never told/Promise that just when love grows cold/You'll make it precious again."  'Eyes on the Prize' is an inspirational song about perserverance that starts off sounding like a black gospel number: "Got my hand on the gospel plow/Won't take nothin' for my journey now/Keep your eyes on the prize/Hold on" and "The way is slow and we've so far to go/Keep your eyes on the prize/Hold on."  'Without Love' is slow and mesmerizing and references 1Corinthians 13: "You can fall on the blade of the martyr/You can give all your possessions to the poor...Without love I have not."
     'Right Now' is less than a minute long is about taking personal responsibility: "I'm tired of blaming everybody else/I'm sorry if I blamed you/I have everything I need to be myself/I have what I need to love you."  'Mystery' finds Sara relinquishing self-effort: "My body's tired from trying to bring You here/And my brow is furrowed tryin' to see things clear/So I'll turn my back to the black and fall/And wait for the mystery to rise up and meet me."  'Finite' concludes the album.  With this song Sara explores womanhood: "What God meant by woman I'm hard pressed to find" and "I'm finite/I come to an end/I'm finite/I cannot pretend." 
     INVISIBLE EMPIRES is a thoughtful, introspective album that encourages the kind of spiritual growth in believers that will cause them to positively impact the world in which they live.  Sara's voice is in top form and is pleasing to the ears.  I'm rating INVISIBLE EMPIRES 90%. For more info visit: http://www.saragroves.com/ or http://www.fairtradeservices.com/. The album drops in stores Tues, Oct 18, 2011.

TURNING THE PAIGE

     It's hard to believe that it's been a decade since Paige Lewis released her self-titled debut on Word Records at the age of sixteen.  Guess what?  She's still making music.  Her latest album is ONE GOOD DAY (2011, Cry Holy Music).  Now, rather than sounding like Alanis Morissette, she fits in nicely with other female singer-songwriters such as Sheryl Crow, Jann Arden, and Shawn Colvin.  Her sound is more mature and refined.  The album begins with the title track which is a mid-tempo number that talks of the unsure nature of life: "Every story begins with the worry that nothing's gonna go your way" and "All it takes is one good day and you're on your way."  'Other Side' is a pop song about personal discovery: "How's it feel, how's it feel, tell me how it feels/Safe on the other side?" and "Everybody's waitin' for somethin' to change them/Everybody's waitin' for somethin' to save them."  'You Will be the Last' finds Paige in love: "You may not be the first one that's ever crossed my path/Others worked at first but they disappeared so fast/If ever you should wonder or if anyone should ask/You may not be the first one/But you will be the last."  'Who You Are' is a song for the discouraged: "You're gonna be just fine/Take your sweet time/'Cause you're about to go on the ride of your life/Oh, you're gonna run through the dark/You're gonna say it's too hard/Right before you lose your heart/You're gonna find who you are." 'I Belong with You Now' speaks of the gladness of rediscovering a lost love: "Somehow I've always known that we'd be back together someday/Well babe, that day has come/I don't know how we survived for all this time."
     'Turning on the Light' is plodding, and is about conquering depression: "Silence has become the worst of friends/Darkness overruns all happiness" and "There's nothing worse than giving in and fading out and out of sight/We all deserve a second chance/So I'm taking it and I'm turning on the light."  'Much to Learn' is a rock song of personal growth: "Clinging to the only hope I know/Will I know when to let go?/I don't know/All I know, all I know, all I know/Is I've much to learn."  'It Goes On' features beautiful piano and instrumentation and portrays life as a complex journey: "I don't wanna turn back time/I don't wanna change my mind/I just wanna go where I belong/You do the best with what you have/You try to take the good from bad/All I know is after life goes wrong/It goes on."  'Sycamore' is pensive: "Lyin' in my bed/I think I've had enough/I empty my head just to fill it back up."  'Where You Left Me" is a song many will relate to: "I don't understand it why you disappeared/And I'm still stuck here standing where you left me."
     ONE GOOD DAY was an important album for Paige Lewis to make.  She writes in the liner notes: "This is a record I never thought I'd make, filled with songs I never thought I'd write, inspired by a hope I never thought I'd have."  Those fans who are willing to follow Paige from the Christian market to the mainstream market will appreciate her familiar voice and shared insights.  I'm rating ONE GOOD DAY 80%.  For more info visit http://www.thepaige.com/.

BACK TO THE ROCK LIVE!

     Classic Petra is Bob Hartman (guitar and vocals), Greg X Volz (lead vocals), John Lawry (keyboards and vocals), Louie Weaver (drums), and Mark Kelly (bass and vocals).  Their 2011 BACK TO THE ROCK LIVE is comprised of two dvds.  The first is a live concert that was taped at Trinity City Music Hall in Tennessee on November 20, 2010.  The track listing is the same as is found on their 2010 BACK TO THE ROCK cd.  The concert fittingly begins with Psalm 78:35 playing over the speakers: "Then they remembered that God was their Rock, and the most High God their Redeemer."  This concert marked the first time in 25 years that this incarnation of the band had played live together and they really seem to be enjoying themselves and playing their instruments and singing with passion.  Greg X. Volz makes good use of the stage, utilizing leg kicks, jumps, and even running up and down ramps.  Volz makes it clear that the band wants to rescue the perishing and the prodigals-those who have tasted of God's goodness but have been tripped up by the enemy.  As always, with Petra, the songs convey meaningful messages. 'Clean' speaks of how believers are justified and sanctified.  'Angel of Light' warns of the schemes of the devil.  'Second Wind' speaks of spiritual renewal.  'Adonai' offers praise to God.  'Grave Robber' talks of Christ's ultimate victory over death and the hope we have resulting from that.  'Godpleaser' warns against seeking the approval of men.  The camera work and lighting are pleasing to the eye.  All in all, this is a mighty fine, professional concert.  I'm rating Disc One a 90%.
     Disc Two is a documentary recounting the formation and early history of this band that has won four Grammy's and 10 Dove Awards.  In the early 1970's Bob Hartman met bassist John DeGroff in Bible school in Fort Wayne, Indiana, and guitarist Greg Hough and drummer Bill Glover (classmates) and formed Petra.  In 1974 they released their debut, self-titled album with Hartman and Hough sharing lead vocal duties.  They brought in a number of guest vocalists on their second album COME AND JOIN US, one of whom was Greg X. Volz, who had been with the 'e' band.  Bob Hartman says: "The Jesus Movement was a genuine Holy Spirit revival."  People were completely turning around.  Petra wanted to evangelize and reach people who didn't go to church.  They were though, criticized for their rock sound.  Radio host Jerry Bryant recalls getting phone calls telling him he was going to hell for playing the devil's music.  In the early 1980's WASHES WHITER THAN was released.  It was not a big seller and had distribution problems.  Band members were leaving and Hartman considered hanging it up.  However, he met Mark Kelly and John Slick at a Bible study and hired them to join him and Volz.  Hartman recalls Christian record labels would say they would put Petra's records out, but not to expect much!  Petra's fourth album was NEVER SAY DIE and had on it 'The Coloring Song', originally by 'e' band.  It went to the top of Christian radio.  Petra hired Louie Weaver, a drummer who had been with Randy Matthews and Fireworks.  In 1982 Petra did 162 shows.  MORE POWER TO YA was praised by Billboard.
     Petra encountered charges of hiding secret evil messages in their music via backwards masking.  On their song 'Judas Kiss' they hid the following message in response: "What are you looking for the devil for when you ought to be looking for the Lord?"  Pastors prayed against Petra and people picketed their shows even though they gave an invitation at the end of their shows.  In 1983 they played 152 shows.
     For NOT OF THIS WORLD Petra used lights, stage effects, and costumes.  John Lawry from the Joe English band joined Petra on keyboards.  Their 1985 album BEAT THE SYSTEM used keyboards, electronic drums, computerized sound effects and fairlight synthesizer.  Petra played to 500 000 on the BEAT THE SYSTEM tour. 
     Hartman and Volz disagreed on Petra's future.  The tour had been expensive and the band was hurting financially.  In 1985 Volz left Petra to pursue a solo career.  John Schlitt was the first and last to audition for the vocalist position.  In 2005 Petra retired with a Farewell Tour.
     This fine documentary is forty-five minutes. It has some emotional moments. Louie Weaver is particularly grateful to be in Petra. John Lawry recounts how he was taken in as an orphan by missionaries when he was four and fighting malnutrition.  I'm rating this second disc a 87%.
For more info, or to purchase visit http://www.classicpetra.com/.
    

LIVE AT THE MASQUERADE

     Thousand Foot Krutch's LIVE AT THE MASQUERADE (2011, Tooth and Nail Records) was taped as a CD/DVD combo in front of a crowd of 20,000 at the Rexall Place in Edmonton, Alberta on May 28, 2010.  It contains six tracks from 2009's WELCOME TO THE MASQUERADE and seven hits from previous albums.
     The CD begins with 'Welcome to the Masquerade' which is about getting rid of the masks we wear and making ourselves vulnerable: "I'm not one to scatter ashes/But there's some things that'll melt the plastic/Try and dig down deeper if you can."  'Bring me to Life' is about a person reaching for their full potential: "Bring me to life, breathe air into me/Take me from the darkness that I've been in/'Cause I just want to be free."  'Move' contains this introspective lyric: "You've never been to the place inside, I face my fears/It takes everything I am."  'Absolute' is a passionate cry to God from a lost generation: "We want the truth, give us the Absolute/We need your help, 'cause we've got nothing!"  'The Flame in All of Us' has a melodic chorus and speaks of the toll the world can take on you: "This world has taken me by storm, it makes me feel like running/This place is making me transform until I feel like nothing."  'E for Extinction' speaks of fighting for a better life: "But we won't leave the way that we came/And I know there's so much more ahead/I can barely believe we're here/We won't surrender quietly."  'Scream' is sympathetic to those who are hurting: "I've felt the feelings you've been feeling/Been through the same things/You've been through/And I know how hard it is/To feel like you're all alone."
     'What do we Know' has a sing-along quality to it and offers these words of hope: "But maybe if we pull together we can change/A million lives for the better/And maybe if we prayed a little more/We would stop living in fear from the storm."  'Falls Apart' tells the story of a prodigal: "It falls apart from the very start/It falls apart, seems like everything I touch/Falls apart, everything around me/Falls apart, when I walk away from you."  'Rawkfist' is a party anthem from 2003's PHENOMENON.  'Fire it Up' has a nice guitar solo and is an ode to adrenaline: "I'm in love with the feelin'/Of pressure to the ceilin'/Wake up with intention/To face my opposition."  Two encores are included.  'Already Home' is a ballad of surrender to God: "And I know I haven't always been/Where You wanted me/I'm standin' here, arms out/Broken down/Before You."  'Puppet' is from 2001's SET IT OFF and has a bouncy beat that makes you think of marionettes being manipulated by a puppet master.
     The accompanying DVD is very well shot.  The pyrotechnics and lighting, combined with lead singer Trevor McNevan's great use of the stage, make for a pleasant viewing experience.  I'm rating the CD a 80% and the DVD a 90%.  I recommend LIVE AT THE MASQUERADE to fans of other rock acts such as Skillet and Our Lady Peace.

LONG PLAYER LATE BLOOMER

     There are singers and then there are musical artists.  Mr. Ron Sexsmith is a musical artist.  His latest album LONG PLAYER LATE BLOOMER (2011, Warner Music) has been shortlisted as a nominee for the prestigious 2011 Polaris Music Prize.  The first track 'Get in Line' has a light country feel to it, and seems addressed to his naysayers and critics: "If you meant to shower me with guilt better get in line/If you're cryin' over milk that's spilt, well take a number and wait in line."  'The Reason Why' is joyful sounding and ponders if there is a reason for everything and concludes we do not always need a reason why: "Hoping for an answer/I glance up to indifferent skies" and "All we would hear is a deafening silence."  'Believe it when I see it' finds Ron working out his faith: "We've just a wish and an empty vessel/A hole to fill with days/On a road where children stray/Then pray there is no hell and as for heaven, well if seeing is believing/I'll believe it when I see it" and "We're bound to waste all our free will and ambition/If we got no vision and we got no spine."  'Miracles' slows things down and evidences faith: "There are miracles appearing in broad daylight to a cynical world so blind/With both of us knowing there's so much to dream of/It's a miracle my love."  Musically 'No Help at All' sounds like a TV theme song from the 70's or 80's.  It details the loss of hope: "Won't somebody tell me what these eyes are for/I can't see a light anymore, I can't see a light anymore/It gets lonesome in that valley/You're on your own/You've got to go it alone/You've got to go it alone."  The title track, 'Late Bloomer', is autobiographical and has a smooth sounding chorus: "I'm a late bloomer/I'm a slow learner/And I've heard the penny drop/I'm a small player with a tall order to come out on top/And without selling my soul/That everyone might know that I'm a late bloomer." 
     'Heavenly' will appeal to fans of the Lost Dogs and is poetic: "The morning wears her/Golden autumn dress/It's a heavenly love that you and I possess."  'Michael and His Dad' is a unique story song about a boy and his father short on cash, but rich in love.  'Middle of Love' is an upbeat Sheryl Crow style tune about being head over heels in love.  'Everytime I follow' features crooner style vocals and speaks of the bittersweet power of memory when it comes to lost loves: "The blues are calling me/Oh every time I follow a tearful memory/Oh every time I follow/But in the midst of emptiness/You fill my heart/With love and music/And tell me where to start."  'Eye Candy' has a playful sound to it and showcases humourous lyrics about shady characters: "Eye candy, ear poison/Oh mother keep your boys in/'Cause uptown came downtown/And now they keep hanging around" and "You should see the way they dance/Rubbing up against everybody's leg/And like a bad masseuse/Everything they do rubs me the wrong way."  'Love Shines' is about hopes, dreams and desires coming to fruition, and echoes musically Ron's 2005 hit 'Not About to Lose': "I've seen what love can do, I understand/It's like the candle glowing in the wine/It fills a heart with silver stars/That's where my love shines."  The closing song 'Nowadays' is sung with a spirit of thankfulness and could be addressed to a lover or God: "Used to be I felt so all alone/Used to be I dealt with devils on my own/But nowadays I hear your song/Ringing through my heart and soul/And when I've had enough/Your love takes hold/I just throw my hands up/And your love takes hold."
     LONG PLAYER LATE BLOOMER is a strong, meaty album.  It is the antithesis of much of the disposable music out there today.  I'm rating it 88%! Thanks to my brother Mark A. Alward for introducing me to this album.

AN EVENING WITH THE TORCHMEN

     The 2007 cd AN EVENING WITH THE TORCHMEN was also recorded as a live concert dvd at the Crossroads Centre in Burlington.  On this recording the Torchmen are Sandy MacGregor, Dave Randall, Mike Moran, and Jon Hisey.
     The album opens with a joyful sounding song about Christ's mission on earth, 'He Took it Upon Himself': "He took it upon Himself to save this old sinful world/He took it upon Himself to open the gates of pearl/He knew that my sin would be too heavy a load for me/So to save my soul from hell/He took it upon Himself."  'I've Made it Home' is upbeat, features a great bass vocal, and is about the joys of heaven: "And when I've finally found my mansion/How my happy heart will sing/Glory glory hallelujah/I've made it home."  'Movin' Up, Movin' Out will appeal to fans of Gold City and the Nations.  It anticipates entering one's heavenly reward: "When I'm readin' in the papers/What I'm readin' in the Word/Well I know it won't be long till that trumpet sound is heard."
     The next two songs were written by group member Dave Randall who grew up in Michigan and now resides in Ontario.  'I'm Gonna Sing in the Choir' has a country feel to it and looks toward heaven: "When Gabriel blows his trumpet/We will gather in the sky/And there we'll stand before the Saviour/In that sweet by and by."  'Who Touched Me' is a ballad about Jesus' miraculous power.  It tells the New Testament story of the woman with the issue of blood pushing through the crowds to touch Jesus and be healed.  'There's a Testimony' features Jon Hisey's bass vocal.  He came to the group when he was just 17.  'Going Home' was written by Bill and Gloria Gaither and is a song of comfort for when times are tough, and for the elderly: "Going home, I'm going home/There's nothing to hold me here/I've caught a glimpse of that heavenly land/Praise God I am going home."  'I'm Gonna keep on Tellin' is happy sounding and speaks of our mandate as Christians: "We must be ready to bear witness for our Lord/The end is soon approaching/My time is almost gone/But I have made a promise as I go pressing on."  'All Aboard (Glorybound)' has a similar message to 'People get Ready' and includes use of harmonica: "I hope you're wearing your travellin' shoes/Get to that station/You got no time to lose/Leave all of your worries and your cares behind."  'Payday is Coming' has a Southern Gospel feel to it and has a message of encouragement for the weary: "He who holds the keys to heaven/May return at night or noon/Keep on workin' for the Master/Payday's comin' soon."
     'Pray Daniel Pray' has the crowd clapping along and tells the story of how God delivered Daniel from the lion's den.  It features nice piano work and contains the following advice for believers today: "If you want to see the devil run/Listen to me/You gotta spend that time down on your knees/You gotta pray like you believe/Like Daniel prayed."  'A Place Called Grace' is a ballad about Christ's work at Calvary: "In a selfless act of love He changed eternity/And redemption's story wrote it's final lines."  'Here There or in the Air' is a delicious Cathedrals like romp about how believers will meet each other in heaven: "There's no room for sad goodbyes/So dry your tears and lift up your eyes/He's coming in the clouds and it could be anyday/I'll meet you in the mornin' on that milky white way."  The album concludes with a modern anthem speaking of harmony, 'I Love You Canada', which is a tribute to our country: "I see our future in our children/So proud, strong, and free/One family hand in hand from sea to shining sea."
     AN EVENING WITH THE TORCHMEN is an exciting live album that captures the quartet's energy and enthusiasm.  It is clear the audience truly enjoyed this performance.  I'm rating it a 90%.

THE PROVERBS-GIVE IT AWAY CONCERT DVD

     The Proverbs GIVE IT AWAY CONCERT DVD (2009) is their first full length concert dvd.  The taping, produced by Enhance Media, was part of a concert at Kingston Gospel Temple, which also featured the Revelations and Crimson River.  The dvd opens with a greeting from the Oak Ridge Boys congratulating the Proverbs on 40 years of ministry in music!
     Twelve of the thirteen songs from the Proverbs GIVE IT AWAY cd (2008) are performed with 'The Shepherd's Call' being excluded.  Two songs from their RELEASE cd are also performed.  'Well Water' tells the story of the Samaritan woman meeting Jesus at the well and Him offering her water "flowing from a river that will never run dry."  It has a country feel to it.  'Holdin' His Own' reminds us that Jesus is there for us when we are at our rope's end and have lost our sense of direction.  The three group members (Dave Daw, Kathy Daw, and Karyl Tymciw) make good use of the stage and different camera angles are used on the dvd, including close-ups.  The sound is top notch. 
     The talking between songs flows naturally and the group seems at ease.  At one point, Dave jokes about being the best looking of the group.  At another, Kathy jokes that it's too bad they didn't get around to making a video when they looked younger in days gone by.  During 'Everybody wants to go to Heaven'  Dave hams it up playing the 'air fiddle' along with the track that is playing.  Before singing 'It is Well with my Soul' acappella style, Dave shares that his dad was a pastor who sang in a quartet.  Dave and his family would sing in the car on the way to services, practicing harmonies.  On 'Ghost in this House' Dave comes down off the stage for a more direct involvement with the audience.
     Before singing 'Even in the Valley God is Good' Karyl shares how she loves the mountain times, when the Spirit is vibrant in our lives, but it is the valley times that help us grow.  'Give it Away' is about how we as Christians should show God's love.  During this song the group gives two free cd's away for audience participation.  A lady who dances enthusiastically and another who shares several hugs each win.  Dave shares that the reason the group has travelled for 42 plus years is to offer folks the gift of salvation.  There is eternal life if we put our faith in Christ.  Many are unaware of this.  Kathy shares that her theme that particular year was to be distracted by God.  Listen to God and you'll go the right way.  The group's 2011 cd would be called 'dis-tract-ed.'
     GIVE IT AWAY CONCERT DVD showcases a group that is down to earth and excited about their faith.  They are professional as well.  I'm rating this dvd a 75%.  If the group were to record another dvd in the future, it would be neat to see the use of some live musicians, and the inclusion of some of their older hits.

ENJOYING THE JOURNEY

     That the TORCHMEN QUARTET have a rich history is attested to by the following statement from the liner notes of their album ENJOY THE JOURNEY (2009): "Since 1969 more than 40 singers and musicians have held up their torch through the group proclaiming that the Light of the World is our Saviour, Jesus Christ."  Fans of Southern Gospel and country and western music will appreciate the instrumentation on this album, which includes steel guitar, banjo, mandolin, fiddle, dobro, and harmonica. 
     Two upbeat numbers start off this record.  'Take me to that Mountain' was written by group member David Randall and tells of a desire to have a spiritual plateau experience: "Take me to that mountain/High up to a place/Where I can feel the sun shining down upon my face/Oh high above the dark clouds that's where I wanna roam/Just take me to that mountain/When I'm there I'm almost home."  'I've enjoyed the Journey' shares the secret of a happy life: "I've enjoyed the journey walin' with my Lord/When the enemy surrounds me/He is my shield and sword/There's no need to worry, no need to fret/He will not leave me and He's never failed me yet/I've enjoyed the journey/Walkin' with my Lord." 'When Heaven's Joy is Mine' is a ballad that looks ahead to the afterlife: "What a great homecoming/What a morning/As I leave this world behind/There forever with loved ones rejoicing/When heaven's joy is mine."  'Gonna get my feet Wet', again written by David Randall, tells the story of Peter stepping out of the boat to meet Jesus, and reminds us we need to be ready when God calls us to do something.
     'Cast all your care on Jesus' is a slow ballad that is a good reminder for those going through trials: "Cast all your care on Jesus/He gave His life for you/Cast all your care on Jesus/No matter the test/He'll see you through." 'Roll Away Jordan' is a fun sounding song of defiance, with a bass vocal lead: "If you're waitin' for my troubles to get me down/Well friend there ain't no use you hanging around/'Cause I don't care what comes my way/It can't be big enough for what you hear me say/Roll away trouble river/Roll away."  'When I rested in the Lord' describes how life can be without the Lord: "Tryin' to cope with the pressures of life/Left me with a weary days and sleepless nights/Searched for the answer not knowin' the question/I was runnin' fast but in the wrong direction."  'Mine Eyes have seen Thy salvation' is the first of three consecutive songs that Rodney Griffin of GREATER VISION has songwriter credits on.  It reflects on Simeon's experience when he encountered Christ at the temple: "He said 'Mine eyes have seen Thy salvation/For I have seen the Lord/I've touched the hope of the ages/Jesus the Living One.'" 
     'I like it All' talks of the joy of Christian fellowship: "I like the way that it feels when the Spirit is real/And the people are in one accord/I like the love that I sense when we're gathered together and take turns to brag on the Lord/There's no place for me that I'd rather be/'Cause at the church house I have a ball."  'That's why there's Forgiveness' contains the following words of truth sung in a spirit of thanksgiving: "God knew when He saved me/I could not live a sinless life/And no matter how hard I tried I still would fail/But He made provision/With His Son's sacrifice/And now my sins are overshadowed/By three rusty nails."  'First One to Get there and the Last One to Leave', one of my favourites, tells the conversion story of a drunkard who trades in drink for church activity involvement.  The last song, 'Sing Shout Shine' is a happy one with a bass lead: "So He guides me on my way/Keepin' me safe from day to day/And I know I'll travel to a better place." 
     ENJOY THE JOURNEY is the type of album that will grow on you.  I'm giving it a 78%.  For more info visit http://www.torchqt.com/.  Thanks to Mike and the rest of the Torchmen.

CLASSIC TORCHMEN SONGS FEATURING JOSH FRIEND

     In the liner notes for CLASSIC TORCHMEN SONGS FEATURING JOSH FRIEND (2010) the group writes: "We hope you enjoy these 'Classic Gospel Songs' recorded in the classic way (you are hearing it just the way we sang it) at Grant Ave Studios in Hamilton.  We recorded there in 1976 and we tried to re-create that sound in 'Classic Torchmen Songs.'"  The Torchmen are, on this project, Sandy MacGregor (tenor), David Randall (lead), Mike Moran (baritone), and Josh Friend (bass).
     The album begins with 'There's a Testimony', which is a song with a bouncy chorus about someone eager to share their faith experience: "There's a testimony in the house today/There's somebody ready to stand and give Him praise/A voice that is willing to be a witness of His grace'There's a testimony in the house today."  'Zion's Hill' features nice piano playing and is about a believer going to their heavenly reward: "There waits for me a glad tomorrow/Where gates of pearl swing open wide/And when I've cast this veil of sorrow/I'll dwell upon the other side."  'Led out of Bondage' is a fast, drum driven track about how God, using Moses, freed the Israelites from the Egyptians.  It will appeal to fans of Nations' hits such as "Get thee Behind me Satan" and "Noah found Grace".  'I'll live in Glory' is celebratory and has as its' focus the rapture: "This might be the very day when the Lord will take us away/When the shouts from Heaven and the trumpet sound/All the dead in Christ will rise and we'll meet 'em in the skies/Oh what joy is now a'waiting/Heaven on high."  'No One but Jesus Knows' is a ballad with a doo-wop feel to it and speaks of an intimate relationship with Jesus as Healer: "All discouraged, so sad and blue/I go to Jesus/He'll see me through/How He thrills my broken spirit/No one but Jesus knows."
     'Payday' has a Southern Gospel feel to it and reminds us how we should live our lives as we await the Lord's return: "Payday is comin'/Comin' in the by and by/Do not weary in well doing/Your redemption draweth nigh/He who holds the keys to heaven/May return at night or noon/Keep on workin' for the Master/Payday's comin' soon." 'Under Control' is a ballad of comfort: "The Bible speaks of famines and trials/In the last day how they'll sweep through our land/But we have His assurance that through all of these trials/We'll be lead by His mighty hand."  'Getting ready to Leave this World' was penned by Luther G. Pressley in 1937.  It looks forward to the next life with anticipation, while stressing the importance of living right in the here and now: "I'm gettin' ready to leave this world/I'm getting ready for the gates of pearl/Keeping my record right/Watching both day and night/I'm getting ready to leave this world."
     'I Can Tell you the Time' is smooth flowing, features nice harmonica, and talks of the mystery of salvation: "I can tell you now the time/I can take you to the place/Where the Lord saved me/By His wonderful grace/But I can not tell you how for I know not the how/And I can not tell you why/And I know not the why/But He'll tell me all about it/He will tell me all about it/In the by and by."  The hymn 'I'd rather have Jesus', written by Luther G. Pressley in 1935 is given a traditional treatment and speaks of having a stronger desire for Jesus than for power, prestige, or possessions.
     CLASSIC TORCHMEN SONGS FEATURING JOSH FRIEND does a good job featuring the talented bass singer, while allowing the other three parts to flourish as well.  This is a good album to help you set your sights on heaven.  My only beef is that it's a bit on the short side, clocking in at 29 minutes and 4 seconds.  I'm giving it an 80%.  For more info visit:  http://www.torchqt.com/. Thanks to Mike and the rest of the Torchmen.

A PROVERBS CHRISTMAS

     The Proverbs' 20th album, is, pleasantly a Christmas offering.  CHRISTMAS-OUR FAVOURITE TIME OF YEAR (2010) begins with 'Light of the World', an adult contemporary song of worship and mission good for the whole year round and written by Phil Johnson and Mark Lowry: "Oh Light, Oh Light of the world we worship You/Oh Light, Oh Light of the world we honour You/As we journey through this cold dark world we will carry You/To light up the world with the Light of the world."  Irving Berlin's 'White Christmas' is given a slow jazz treatment with nice guitar work and puts one in mind of sitting in a coffee shop by a fireplace sipping a hot chocolate.  'Go Tell' really finds the Proverbs in their element.  It is an upbeat country tune that will get you clapping, as did some of their older hits such as 'In my Robe of White' and 'It'll be Alright'.  Message wise, it is in keeping with the Great Commission given by Jesus: "Once you've seen that shinin' star/You can't keep it to yourself/Go tell it near and far/He is Emmanuel/You've gotta go tell." 'If Everyday could be Christmas' is easy listening, features nice keyboard sounds, and is sentimental: "If everyday could be Christmas/What a wonderful world it would be/We could carry this feeling within us/All through the year/If everyday could be Christmas."  Not forgetting the kids, the group includes a nice arrangement of 'Away in a Manger' with good harmonies.
     'Reason for the Season' was on LONESTAR'S 2000 album THIS CHRISTMAS TIME, and reflects on the true meaning of Christmas: "He is the reason for the season/He is the Light that shines on our lives/The baby Jesus born in God's grace so we all might rejoice on this day."  The song begins with Dave Daw on lead vocals and I would have liked him to carry the whole vocal for a bit of variety.  'The Christmas Song' seems aimed at a more senior audience and would fit nicely on Tillsonburg's EASY 101 FM.
     'The First Noel' is again easy listening and I recommend it to fans of later era Point of Grace harmonies.  'Silent Night' is given the acappella treatment and features Dave's bass.  It is clear that the Proverbs could do an entire acappella album that would be quite enjoyable!  The album concludes with Steve Chapman's 'The Mystery of the Season' which speaks of a desire, yes a longing, to be with family at Christmas: "It sends me down the highway to feed a hunger in my soul/I drove all day to get here as if I had control/And the cars out in the driveway tell me I am not alone/It's the mystery of the season/One by one comin' home."
     On CHRISTMAS-OUR FAVOURITE TIME OF YEAR, the Proverbs don't murder the classic carols as some have, and that is something to be thankful for.  The album could have been improved by including more faster, joyful sounding tunes given the occasion.  I'm giving this one a 78%.  It would be a nice addition to your Christmas music collection. For more info or to purchase, please visit http://www.theproverbs.com/.  Thanks to Dave, Kathy, and Karyl.

THE PROVERBS GET DISTRACTED

     The Proverbs just recently shared the stage with gospel music legends Russ Taff and Janet Paschal in Belleville and Ottawa, which speaks to the calibre of their artistry.  dis-tract-ed is the 21st complete album recorded by the Proverbs since they began in 1967.  It came out this year.  It begins with the laid back 'Hazy Days' which is a prayer to God to rescue them from a spiritual fog: "Guide my steps with Your hand/Keep me firm in Your plans/Lord rescue me from these hazy days."  Next up is the first of three songs written by group member Karyl Tymciw assisted by Jeremy Daw (son of group members Dave and Kathy Daw).  'Distracted by God' is an adult contemporary number that speaks of the many things that draw our attention away from God, including television, sleeping in, and bad moods.  The song advises: "Somehow we've gotta come to our senses/Want the world to see I'm distracted by God/Some roads are paved with good intentions/Choose to be distracted by God."  'Runaway Train' has a funky sound to it and using the story of Paul and Silas in jail, praises the merits of using praise to rise above one's circumstances.  'When I Hear the Thunder' sounds like early Amy Grant or Twila Paris and is born out of a deep faith in God through adversity: "When I hear the thunder and I think I'm goin' under/I remember You're the lifter of my head/You've had a thousand chances to change my circumstances/Thank You Lord for changing me instead."  'Get Away Jordan' is a classic toe-tapping spiritual on which Dave Daw gets his bass vocal on.  'There is a God' is an inspirational ballad that gives evidence for our Father God: "There's a beauty to the dawn/A rhythm to the rain/A silence in the soul that I just can't explain...There's a debt that has been paid/A grace that I've been shown/A hope that I've been given/That I have never known."
     'I Can't Help Myself' is about our fundamental need for God and His goodness. 'God is There' is another inspirational ballad.  It reminds us that God is everywhere.  He's with those in the hospital, the young pregnant mother, and the parent awaiting the return of their prodigal child: "God is there in the middle of Your night/Every single moment, every single life/He's reaching for you right where you are/The God of the impossible is never very far."  The Imperials took the celebratory 'I'm Forgiven' to Number One for thirteen weeks in 1980.  Of 'Your Song', a mid tempo Silverwind type tune, Karyl writes: "Praising God with our voices is not only Biblical, but empowering and therapeutic...The simple act of singing about God's goodness invigorates and rejuvenates the soul."
     'Over the Mountain' is the first of two Sheri Easter written songs and reminds us we are on a journey working towards a goal: "I may not be over the mountain/But I can see the other side/Just a glimpse makes me wanna lift up my hands and throw back my head and smile/This journey has left me weary/But I know God's been faithful to guide."  'That's God for You' falls into the easy listening category and was inspired by Rob O'Prey, a man who loved singing gospel music and died of a brain tumor.  Th song talks of the value of hindsight: "Though you may have felt you were all alone/When you look back He was there/He went before you/That's God for you."  The album ends with "I Don't want to Cry', a mid tempo song with this word of encouragement: "Life can getcha down so low/Leave you wanderin' all alone/But if you have the will to stand/He'll reach out to hold your hand."
     The strengths of dis-tract-ed are the smooth lead vocals of Kathy Daw, and the solid instrumentation including saxophones, keys, guitars, and horns.  If I had one complaint, it would be that there aren't enough fast songs in the mix here.  All in all, I'm rating this one an 80%.  For more info, or to purchase, visit http://www.theproverbs.com/.  Thanks to Dave, Kathy, and Karyl.

SWITCHFOOT VERSUS THE HURRICANE

     HELLO HURRICANE (2009, lowercase people records) won SWITCHFOOT a Grammy Award this year for Best Rock or Rap Gospel Album.  I'm recommending this one to fans of other guitar based rock acts such as Foo Fighters, The Tea Party, Third Day, and Sam Roberts. 
     Several of the songs are about life as a spiritual journey.  'Enough to Let me Go' boldly addresses God: "Do you love me enough to let me go?/To let me follow through/To let me fall for You."  'Mess of Me' is a driving, pulsating song about the struggle a Christian has with their flesh: "The sickness is myself/I've made a mess of me/I want to get back the rest of me/I've made a mess of me/I want to spend the rest of my life alive."  'Free' is about a person who is in trouble but believes in God's power: "I've got my back against the wall/But I still hear the blue sky call/The chains that hold me back inside/Are the prisons of my mind/Free/Come set me free/Down on my knees/I still believe/You can save me from me."  'Sing it Out' is a quiet ballad, nicely orchestrated: "My world is a lie that's come true/And I fall in love with the ones that run me through/When all along all I need is You."  'Red Eyes' is an open invitation for the prodigal to return home to God: "Every now and then I see you dreaming/Every now and then I see you cry/Every now and then I see you reaching/Reaching for the other side/What are you waiting for?"
     Love is a common theme on the album.  'Your Love is a Song' is a ballad with these poetic lines about God's love: "Your love is a symphony/All around me/Running through me/Your love is a melody/Underneath me/Running to me." 'The Sound (John M. Perkins' Blues)' has a passionate shouted vocal and is an anthem to love and it's relevance in our broken world.  'Hello Hurricane' is more pop oriented (think Newsboys or U2) and is a tribute to the prevailing power of love amidst hard times.  On 'Bullet Soul', lead singer Jon Foreman gets his scream on: "Love is the one true innovation/Love is the only art/Don't let 'em blow it apart."
     'Needle and Haystack Life', the album's opener, reminds us that we are here on this earth with a purpose: "The highs and lows/We call it living/In this needle and haystack life/I've found miracles there in your eyes/It's no accident we're here tonight/We are once in a lifetime."  'Yet' is a ballad about relationship troubles: "It's when you're breaking down/With your insides coming out/That's when you find out what your heart is made of/And you haven't lost me yet."
     HELLO HURRICANE is a highly relatable solid rock record.  I'm giving it a 90%.

THE PROVERBS GIVE IT AWAY

     The Proverbs have been a favourite gospel music group of mine since I was less than half my current age of 37.  In 2008 the group released their nineteenth album in forty-one years, GIVE IT AWAY.  It was also at this time that Karyl Tymciw rejoined the group, joining core members Dave and Kathy Daw, her brother and her sister-in-law. 
     GIVE IT AWAY begins with the upbeat, horn accentuated title track that suggests the only path to true happiness is to give of oneself: "If you want less lonely and a lot more fun/And deep satisfaction when the day is done/Throw your heart wide open and give it away."  'Come See Me' has a slow, country feel to it and is about a person who has a relationship with Christ and wants to share Him with others.  'Power in the Name of Jesus' is a powerful, moving ballad that describes the plight of a young single mother, the imprisoned, a widow, and a church needing revival.  The following solution is offered: "There is power in the name of Jesus/There is hope, there is strength and victory to claim/There is healing in His holy presence/There is power in His Name."  'Ghost in this House' could quite easily be a Carman novelty song.  It speaks of the fact that one never quite knows when and how the Holy Spirit will move: "It's a hidden mystery just when it will take place/But when it does get ready church, this place is gonna shake."  Next up is Loretta Lynn's upbeat country tune 'Everybody Wants to Go to Heaven.'  It reflects on our attachment to this world.
     'It Ain't Over when it's Over' is an happy gospel number that celebrates life eternal: "It ain't over when it's over/When that final day arrives/Oh this body may get colder/But our soul will never die."  'It is Well with my Soul' is given a beautiful acappella treatment.  'Great is our Reward' will please bluegrass fans and has great instrumentation.  It is a lyrical rendering of the parable of the Sheep and the Goats.  'Even in the Valley' is an inspirational ballad.  It is a song for the storms of life: "Even in the valley God is good/Even in the valley He is faithful and true/He carries His children through like He said He would."  'River of Jordan' by Jeff and Sherri Easter is done Johnny Cash style.
     'The Shepherd's Call' is a ballad about the Father heart of God: "Though I went astray/I never once left His heart."  'Walkin' with Jesus' sounds like a Happy Goodman's tune and is about life as a celebration with a sure heavenly destination: "Yes I'm walkin' with Jesus to that land so fair/Saints'll be singin'/Joybells ringin'/When we all get there."  The album closes with 'God Only Cries for the Living' that reminds us when a loved one who knew Jesus passes away, they are at peace.
     GIVE IT AWAY is a solid contemporary gospel project.  The vocals on this record are some of the best the group has ever produced.  If you're a fan of good harmonies, you won't be disappointed.  I'm rating this one a 85%.  For more info on The Proverbs visit http://www.theproverbs.com/ .  Also stay tuned to this blog in the coming weeks and months for further reviews of some of their newer product. Special thanks to Dave, Kathy, and Karyl.

UNTIL THE WHOLE WORLD HEARS

     Casting Crowns are a staple on today's Contemporary Christian radio stations.  In 2009 they released UNTIL THE WHOLE WORLD HEARS on Beach Street Records.  'If We've Ever Needed You' speaks of the dismal state we are in before repenting and turning to God: "You called us out, we turned away/We've turned away/With shipwrecked faith, the idols rise/We do what is right in our own eyes/Our children now will pay the price."  The title track reflects on the spiritual warfare involved in winning souls for Christ: "May the powers of darkness tremble as our praises rise/Until the whole world hears/Lord, we are calling out/Lifting up Your Name for all to hear the sound/Like voices in the wilderness we're crying out/And as the day draws near/We'll sing until the whole world hears." 'Holy One' is a guitar driven, upbeat tune I could hear Newsboys doing.
     'At Your Feet' is a ballad that describes where every Christian should want to be: "Jesus, Jesus, at Your feet/Oh, to dwell and never leave/Jesus, Jesus, at Your feet/There is nowhere else for me/There is nowhere else for me."  'To Know You' describes more of the intimacy at His feet: "To know You is to never worry for my life/To know You is to never give into compromise and/To know You is to want to tell the world about You/'Cause I can't live without You."  'Glorious Day (Living He Loved Me)' is a triumphant sounding Easter song, describing why we should want to be at Christ's feet: "Living, He loved me/Dying, He saved me/Buried, He carried my sins far away/Rising, He justified freely forever/One day He's coming/Oh glorious day, oh glorious day."  'Joyful, Joyful' is a playful, creative arrangement of the ancient hymn that would fit nicely into a Contemporary Sunday morning service.
     Three of the tracks fall flat.  'Mercy' and 'Blessed Redeemer' feature one of the ladies of the group on lead vocals.  The songs are standard worship fare, with little to separate them from other worship artists.  They also seem aimed at an older audience than the rest of the album.  'Shadow of Your Wings' finds Casting Crowns trying a Third Day style rocker, but Mark Hall does not have the seasoned voice of Mac Powell to pull it off.  In fact, the song almost sounds like a joke!
     UNTIL THE WHOLE WORLD HEARS is a good adult contemporary album for the most part.  Fans of Mercy Me and Michael W. Smith should enjoy it.  I'm giving it a 72%.

STRYPER GOES UNDERCOVER

          STRYPER is no stranger to controversy.  Remember they were the ones who recorded TO HELL WITH THE DEVIL back in the day.  On THE COVERING (2011, Big3 Records) they pay tribute to some of the bands who influenced them musically over the years.  Yes, some Christian musicians listen to secular music too!
          There are three songs here that are somewhat controversial.  'Blackout' (Scorpions) contains the line: "What the hell have I lost my taste?" 'On Fire' (Van Halen) includes the following lyric: "Good God y'all I'm on fire." 'Highway Star' (Deep Purple) is about love for one's car and/or girl, and could make some Christians squirm with these words: "I love her/I need her/I seed her/Yeah she turns me on/Alright hold on tight/I'm a highway star."
         At least three of the tracks present life as a journey.  'Heaven and Hell' (Black Sabbath) is over six minutes and is a realistic, somewhat pessimistic look at life: "They say that life's a carousel/Spinning fast, you've got to ride it well/The world is full of kings and queens/Who blind your eyes and steal your dreams/It's heaven and hell, oh well."  'Carry on Wayward Son' (Kansas) is more optimistic: "Carry on my wayward son/For there'll be peace when you are done/Lay your weary head to rest/Now don't you cry no more."  'Immigrant Song' (Led Zeppelin) is about a journey to a new land.
         Tracks nine and ten are story songs.  'The Trooper' (Iron Maiden) is about a fallen soldier: "My body's numb and my throat is dry/And as I lay forgotten and alone/Without a tear I draw my parting groan." 'Breaking the Law' (Judas Priest) is about one who is down and out and desperate: "I've had every promise broken, there's anger in my heart/You don't know what it's like, you don't have a clue/If you did you'd find yourselves doing the same thing too/Breaking the law."  In contrast, 'Shout it out Loud' (Kiss) is a party anthem: "Call all your friends in the neighbourhood/And get the party started (get the party started)."
         The album closes with a STRYPER original, 'God', which paints a picture of how hopeless life is without God.  The chorus goes: "God have mercy on us/For we know not what we do/God, dark and blinded/We are burning/Without You God."  I'm giving THE COVERING a 75% rating.  Those who enjoy STRYPER'S hard rocking sounds and Michael Sweet's signature screams won't be disappointed with this one!

AARON GILLESPIE SINGS THE ANTHEM

     Being a founding member of Christian metalcore band Underoath, and currently lead vocalist for alternative rock group The Almost, Aaron Gillespie is not the most likely candidate to record a worship album, but that is exactly what he has done with the release of ANTHEM SONG (2011, BEC Recordings).  In the CD booklet he writes: "When time began God had a song; an 'anthem' if you will.  It is a song of truth, life, and ultimate love, which was displayed to us through Christ...Our lives exist to grab a piece of this anthem, the piece God has carved out just for us and sing as loud and as hard as we can.  He alone is worthy to be praised."  Aaron aims to introduce worship music to kids who normally wouldn't be interested in it.
     'Washed Away' is about losing yourself in God: "God we need You so much, let Your glory fall like rain/Till we are washed, washed away in You Jesus/I'm washed away in You."  'We Were Made for You' is a pop/rock song driven by guitar and drums, and is about being sold out for God: "You are God, You are God/We were made for You, just for You/You are God, You are God/We will live for You in everything we do/You are God."  'You are Jesus' contains this simple yet profound lyric: "You are holy/I am dirty/In You I am made clean/You are Jesus."  'All Things' is a pop number telling of how God can transform bad things in our lives into something great: "All things, all things are in Your hands, bright and beautiful/Wise and wonderful/All things are in Your hands." 
     'Earnestly I Seek Thee' is a beautiful ballad that builds.  It is about a desire for intimacy with God: "In life's troubles, sorrows and pain/Earnestly I seek Thee/Fill my soul with peace again/Earnestly I seek Thee."  'I Will Worship You' is slow and highlights a single minded determination to worship God no matter the circumstances: "When I'm losing, when I'm broken/When I'm sinking like a stone and it feels like I'm alone/I will worship You."
     Tracks 9 and 10 are perhaps my favourites.  'You are my Everything' is a straight up rock song with a pulsating rhythm and good guitar work.  This style seems to best suit Gillespie's voice.  'Your Song Goes on Forever' is a ballad of praise: "Your song goes on forever/I will sing my part with my whole heart/Your song goes on forever/I will bless Your Name/I will sing Your praise."
     Overall, ANTHEM SONG is a pretty good worship record for a first attempt, though Gillespie's voice is a bit of an aquired taste.  I'm giving this album a 75%.  I recommend it to fans of Chris Tomlin and Paul Baloche (who co-writes on the album), and the worship projects of Michael W. Smith, Newsboys, and Skillet.

NATALIE'S LOVE REVOLUTION

     Natalie Grant has one of the strongest female voices in Contemporary Christian Music.  Her latest offering LOVE REVOLUTION (2010, Curb Records) is comprised of seven worship songs and five pop songs.
     The album opens with two songs about finding one's identity.  On 'Love Revolution' she sings: "Fading/We're all fading/From who we've become and who we're meant to be/Dying/We're all dying/And wanna believe it's everyone but me/Oh great light of the world help us see/What can save us now."  'Daring to Be' sounds like pop being done by folks much younger than Grant, but she pulls it off.  On it she sings of discovering who she is: "Perfectly safe and complacent/Those are the words Your love's replaced/With fearless and brave, and courageous/Yeah, that's who I am today."
     'Human' is a mid tempo number about making a difference in our world by sharing: "A little love, a little kindness, a little light in this time of darkness."  'Beauty Mark'  has a funky groove to it and gets introspective: "Religious rock stars making a name/So churchified it is a crying shame/But I'll point the finger at nobody else but me/It's time to be the change we need."  'Someday our King will Come" has a rootsy Crystal Bowersox feel to it and is heavy on the percussion.  It is a song of hope for those times when everything seems to be falling apart.
     The worship songs are quite beautiful and rich lyrically and musically.  'Power of the Cross' speaks of the transforming power of Christ's work on the cross: "Once a stranger, now a child/Empty, now filled/Once condemned, now reconciled/Broken, now healed."  'Your Great Name' magnifies the Lord: "Jesus, worthy is the Lamb that was slain for us/Name above all names (Son of God and man)/You are high and lifted up/And all the world will praise/Your great Name."  'Desert Song' written by Brooke Fraser, is about knowing who God is and who you are in Him, and about praising God "when triumph is still on it's way."
     I'm giving LOVE REVOLUTION a 78%.  I recommend it to fans of the pop vocal stylings of Christina Aguilera and Rachael Lampa, and the contemporary worship stylings of Chris Tomlin.

I'M FINE WITH GOD...IT'S CHRISTIANS I CAN'T STAND

     I liked this book from the moment I read the title.  I'M FINE WITH GOD...IT'S CHRISTIANS I CAN'T STAND was published in 2008 by Harvest House Publishers.  It is written by Bruce Bickel (an attorney) and Stan Jantz (a marketing consultant) both of whom are believers.  "Every segment of society has its members of the lunatic fringe.  But Christianity seems to have a disproportionately high percentage of them."  This quote sets the tone for this particular book which is a critique of Christians who hold extreme views of one form or another. 
     The authors have a real problem with paranoid Christians, that is, those Christians who only listen to Christian music, only read Christian books, and probably homeschool.  They avoid contact with the world if possible.  This makes fulfilling the Great Commission impossible-that is, going into all the world and making disciples of all men.  The authors also have a problem with Christians who think science is the enemy of God and that most scientists are trying to disprove God.  They rightly point out that to be a Christian you should not have to believe that creation took place over six literal 24 hour days, or that the earth is a certain age.  In addition, they point out that Christians have added to the fundamentals of the faith.  No longer is it enough to believe that the Scriptures are inspired by God and inerrant, you also have to take all of the Bible literally, including the imagery used in the prophetic visions. 
     Bickel and Jantz do a good job of debunking the prosperity gospel, mainly by using the life of Jesus Christ as an example.  Christians are not all meant to be rich and live trouble free lives!  Those who fixate on the end of the world and just when that will be are another target in this book.  Rather than focusing on the end of all time as we know it, we should make the most of the opportunites we have in this lifetime to be a postive influence.   Christians who make terrible movies that are subpar to their mainstream counterparts are not given a pass in this book either.  Christian media should be just as good or better than secular fare, otherwise the world will write it off immediately. 
     Christians who don't study their Bibles, as well as those who only have knowledge about God without having a relationship with Him are also put under the microscope.  The authors spend a great deal of time writing about interacting with non-believers and those of other faiths.  It is time we stop seeing these folks as our enemies, the authors believe.  We need to learn to love all people and be ready to give a reason for our hope (that being Christ) when people ask us, rather than preaching at them.
     This is an important book for Christians to read.  I recommend it to those who love God, but find it hard dealing with their Christian brothers and sisters because of their quirks and quarks.  The Christian community could stand for the kind of thoughtful examination spelled out in this book.  This book also helps separate the fundamentals of the faith from our add-ons and subtractions over the years.  Thanks to Heather Wight for lending me this book.
    

HAWK NELSON IS CRAZY IN LOVE

     Hawk Nelson has gained the reputation of being a party band over the years, as was seen by their performance in 'Yours, Mine and Ours' starring Dennis Quaid and Rene Russo.  Their pop, punk, and rock sounds will appeal to fans of Relient K, MxPx, and Simple Plan.
     On CRAZY LOVE (2011, BEC Recordings) their fifth studio album, the boys share more deeply about their faith lyrically, without sacrificing their fun sound.  On 'Your Love is a Mystery' they sing: "God I messed it up again/I seem to do this all the time/Can You forgive me once again, or have I finally crossed the line?"  And later: "You know my faults/You know my wrongs and You still love me."  'Skeleton' reminds us that our secret sins will find us out, and only the truth will set us free.  'Done Holding On' is a song of surrender to God: "I'm giving up my secrets/I'm giving up my faults/Telling You I'm empty/Should have known all along...The Son has come/I wanna be free."
     The title track 'Crazy Love' was inspired by Francis Chan's book of the same name.  The song begins: "We're the ones who believe in the things unseen" and continues: "They say it sounds insane/We say we've been changed/By the power of crazy love/This world looks at us like we're ridiculous/Baby, it's all because of crazy love."  'My Next Breath' is a pretty ballad of acknowledgment: "I know that I am loved/Cuz You bought me with Your blood/I need You/I need You more than my next breath."

     'Joanna' is a relationship song that asks some familiar questions: "Should I call or should I run?/Turn around or just move on?/Either choice I make I'm scared will still be wrong."  The album, produced by Ian Eskelin, ends with 'Thanks for the Beautiful Memories', a song of gratitude to God for all the success they've had as a band.  I'm giving CRAZY LOVE a 78%.

     The deluxe edition of CRAZY LOVE comes with THE LIGHT SIDES (ACOUSTIC), an eleven song sampling of the band's earlier works presented in a more mellow fashion.  'California' is a fun song, with Beach Boys style harmonies and this neat play on words: "We'll never get bored cuz we can go boarding."  '36 Days' is about being on tour away from close family and uses harmonica.

     'You Have What I Need' sounds like a stripped down Billy Talent.  It speaks to the fact that you have to give yourself away to truly live.  'Everything You've Ever Wanted" is a moving ballad about a kid realizing that his broken family is not his fault.  'First Time' comes across like a Great Big Sea tune.  'Head On Collision' features 'Na na na na' gang vocals.  'Take Me' is a beautiful ballad about a longing to be loved and cared for: "Please help me get from worse to better/Before these tears soak through this lonely sweater."  I'm giving THE LIGHT SIDES (ACOUSTIC), produced by Steve Wilson, a 73%.

PETRA GOES BACK TO THE ROCK

     That's right folks!  Petra is back and this time they're going as CLASSIC PETRA.  BACK TO THE ROCK (2010)  is a noteworthy release for several reasons.  It marks the first time in 24 years that Greg Volz handles all the lead vocals.  He largely helped propel the band to fame from 1981 to 1986.  It also sees the return of long-time beloved and once dismissed drummer Louie Weaver.  Other band members on this project are Mark Kelly (bass), John Lawry (keyboards), and founder Bob Hartman on guitar.  BACK TO THE ROCK is being used to re-introduce Petra to the stage again.  International dates are set to begin this Spring, and stops at this summer's Cornerstone and Kingdom Bound festivals are already planned.  This tour will give many of us John Schlitt era fans the opportunity to see the Volz fronted version of our favourite band live for the first time.
     BACK TO THE ROCK consists of ten remade Petra classics and 2 new songs.  Bob Hartman's signature rock guitar work and solos standout throughout this album.  Fans of previous projects such as WAKE UP CALL and JEKYLL AND HYDE will appreciate this.  Hartman is one of CCM's best guitarists.  Of the remakes, three of my favourites are 'Angel of Light', 'Godpleaser', and 'Adonai'.  They are full of energy and spiritual passion, as well as encouragement to live the Christian life.  'Rose Colored Stained Glass Windows' looks at the state of the church: "Another sleepy Sunday safe within the walls/Outside a dying world in desperation calls/But no one hears the cries or knows what they're about/The doors are locked within, or is it from without?"
     What of the 2 new tracks?  'Back to the Rock' is a reworking of the song 'The Rock' from Greg Volz's 2009 GOD ONLY KNOWS solo project.  It reminds us we ought build our lives upon a firm spiritual foundation so we have staying power when we face the storms of life.  'Too Big to Fail' speaks of God being all powerful: "He stretched forth the heavens and He laid the foundations of the earth/All glory and honor and praise/To the One who lives and reigns." 
     Two more CD's are planned already, with the third said to be all new material.  It truly is a blessed time to be a Pethead!  For more info visit http://www.classicpetra.com/ or http://www.thepetrazone.net/.

SMITTY'S WONDERFUL ALBUM

     Michael W. Smith is one of the trailblazing male vocalists of Contemporary Christian Music.  Musically, his latest offering WONDER (2010, Reunion Records) will appeal more to his long time fans who have aged with him, more than to a teen audience.  There are some standout pop numbers here, but they tend to be of the lighter fare.
     Looking at the lyrics, the album could just as well have been called HOPE.  'I'll Wait for You' is about those times when God doesn't seem quite as close to us: "Now I lie awake at night/Tryin' not to think/But these are the hardest times I've ever seen/I'm still holdin' on."  'One More Time' picks up the theme: "When your destiny is out there in the distance/But the road ahead's a mine field in disguise/And you keep on moving/You just keep on moving/You will make it through this."  'Rise', a song that could just as well have been penned by Robert H. Schuller or Joel Osteen, nails home the point: "Stand upon the waves/And walk with me/Journey through the door/Come see what I can see/All the reasons we were made/Who we were meant to be/Rise, He's calling you to go."
     The other two themes on the record are a love for God, and a love for his wife Debbie.  'Take my Breath Away' finds him in awe of God: "See me, all I am/These empty hands/Are all I can give/That You would die so I'd live/Your sacrifice I can't believe/You fascinate."  'Take me Over' is a piano ballad: "With just a glimpse of Your face/All my fears melt away/Lost within Your embrace/I'm pouring out all my admiration/Jesus, Jesus/Take me over now/I surrender/Everything I have, I lay it down/All of me."
     Michael whispers 'sweet nothings' to his wife on 'Forever Yours': "Come walz with me through the twilight/And we will dance as seasons pass/We move together."  On 'You Belong to Me', he sings: "Oh girl, you are more than beautiful/How can it be that you belong to me." 
     WONDER is one of Smitty's stronger albums of late.  It is a seasoned, mature effort.  I'm giving it an 85%.