In November 2017 The Proverbs, one of my all-time favourite groups from Ontario, released their latest album GOOD THINGS as a quartet-Dave Daw, his wife Kathy, their youngest daughter Natasha, and Dave's sister Karyl Tymciw. Shortly after this Karyl resigned due to health issues. A press release states: "Our decision to re-record our album became unavoidable; since this project was originally arranged to include all of us, so without changes, we would have only been able to perform a few of the songs from the CD with our current group...Vocals on some songs have been completely redone in new keys, and all solos are now covered by either Kathy, Natasha, or me" writes Dave Daw. Karyl does provide some backing vocals though. The revised edition of GOOD THINGS dropped in July 2018.
Kathy takes the lead on 'Good Things Are Happening', a bouncy pop number overflowing with optimism: "Good things are happening/I don't have to worry about anything/Cause God's sending blessings down my way/I can lift my head up high/Cause He has promised He will provide/Good things are happening today". Dave takes the lead on the Southern Gospel ballad 'He Already Knows'. It's encouraging: "Whenever circumstances won't allow your heart a moments rest and you shudder just to face another night/But in your darkest hour/You can rest assured He knows what is best/And everything will be alright".
'Waste Another Day' is a song about dedicating oneself to Christ: "I don't want to waste another day, not one minute, if You're not in it/Jesus, You're the only reason that I live/So I'm giving You my all, surrendering/My life, my love, my everything/I don't want to waste another day (2X)". The Southern Gospel toe-tapper 'I've Got My Foot on the Rock' follows. It talks of spiritual warfare: "Now the devil, he will tempt you/He'll fill your way with strife/He'll make you sick in body, even try to take your life/But put your trust in Jesus/Say 'Lord, I've had enough'/The Lord will say 'Move on Satan'/He's got his mind made up".
'So Many Nights' finds the group in adult contemporary territory musically. It includes these very relatable lyrics: "I've been forgiven a long time ago/But somehow I kept pickin' up the guilt again/Never would leave it at Jesus' feet/Thought if I was good I could impress Him". Another adult contemporary track is up next. It's a smooth ballad called 'Ready to Sail'. You can hear Natasha more here. The song sees life as a journey: "If this ship is gonna make it/We're going to have to take it to the water/For I'll never know Your purpose standing here alone on the shore".
'Lamb, Lion & King' is a fast paced honky tonk tune that's under 3 minutes in length. It reflects on Christ as Victor: "You know Jesus left His splendor to live on earth for man/By most He was rejected because He came forth as a Lamb/Oh, but the day is soon approaching that every eye will see/The Lamb and Lion of Judah has been crowned, church/The King of Kings". Natasha sings lead on the beautiful ballad 'Here's My Everything'. It's a testimonial: "You formed me with Your holy hands before my birth/You planned Your perfect purpose for me on this earth/I want to be all that You created me to be/Cause for all You've done You deserve the glory".
Track Nine, 'Jesus is in the House', is a jazz/pop one inspiring faith: "Tear off your roof of fear/Tear off your roof of doubt/Lay down your problems/Jesus is in the house/Tear off your roof of pain/It's time to lay it down/It's gonna be alright/Jesus is in the house". 'Living for Heaven' is a Southern Gospel ballad about eternal life: "You won't hear him talk of crowns or trophies/That's not the reason for the race he's run/But the hope of one day soon the sound of Jesus saying 'My child, 'Well done!'" Closing things out is 'Almost Home', a catchy Southern Gospel song anticipating life in our heavenly, eternal abode: "Won't you listen to that heavenly choir singing the song for the redeemed/The crowd's getting so excited/It will be more than a dream/Well, you might find me running up and down those streets of gold/In my brand new body/Oh, the half has not been told!"
We live in a world full of political tension, racism, and debate over moral issues. We also are susceptible to sickness, financial issues, and relationship problems. On GOOD THINGS, The Proverbs, who have been putting out gospel music for 50 plus years, offer hope that is found only in Christ Jesus. He is the Friend that sticketh closer than a brother. The vocals here are terrific, as is the musicianship, including a horn section arranged by Dave Barton. This album is nominated for a GMA Canada Award in the 'Country/Southern Gospel Album of the Year' category. For more info visit www.theproverbs.com and connect with them on Facebook. I'm rating GOOD THINGS 96%. The cd comes with some great photos of the group.
Leeland Mooring wrote his first song, 'Shine', when he was 11. The Christian band Leeland, named after him, and fronted by him on lead vocals and guitars, put out their debut album SOUND OF MELODIES in 2006. It was nominated for a Grammy for 'Best Pop/Contemporary Gospel Album'. In 2007 Leeland was nominated for five Dove Awards, including 'New Artist of the Year'. In 2008 Leeland released their second album, OPPOSITE WAY (Essential). It was produced by Matt Bronleewe and executive produced by Jason McArthur. It reached #1 on the iTunes Christian Albums chart and was nominated for a Grammy for 'Best Pop/Contemporary Gospel Album' and nominated for a Dove Award for 'Praise & Worship Album of the Year'. Band members on OPPOSITE WAY, in addition to Leeland Mooring, are: Jack Mooring (piano, vocals), Jake Holtz (bass), Mike Smith (drums), and Matt Campbell (guitars).
Starting things off is 'Count Me In', an energetic rocker that peaked at #25 on Billboard's Hot Christian Songs chart. It's about willingly accepting God's love and ways: "No greater gift than a man to lay down His life/How could I miss this?/I'm not about to pass it up/Count me in, I'm amazed this love is for me Lord (2X)/I'm looking at these plans You have/For me they're plans of hope and peace/Much bigger than the ones I have". 'Let it Out Now' is one of 3 songs Leeland Dayton Mooring wrote alone. This pop/rock number is about following God when others don't: "I'm drawing the line between being them or being me/I'm not ashamed to call myself Yours, Lord/But it's a narrow path/I've got to break from the pack/No turning back (2X).../Yes, God's looking for a people/With a passion in their hearts".
'Enter this Temple' is a lovely, prayerful modern worship ballad: "Father, enter this temple/Come touch Your people/We need to be where You are/And children living as their Father/Washed in pure water/We need to be like You are". Next up is the title track, 'Opposite Way'. It's a rock ballad about not following the crowd: "You want to run the opposite way/And it seems like you're locked in a cage/And you need to find a way of escape/When everyone is setting the pace/It's okay to run the opposite way".
'Wake Up' is a pop/rock song about the need for witnessing: "The nation lost and dying/Searching for You/Creation waits/Children with the Word of God/Written in their hearts/Show love to the world/We need to wake up, wake up/Live like God/Pour out love/We need to wake up, wake up/Live like God/Pour out love". 'Beginning and the End' follows. It's a rock ballad that speaks of the crucifixion: "Everything that I've done wrong/Put You there on that cross/Where nails drove in Your hands/A crown of thorns deep in Your brow/I never knew it until now/It was all Your plan/God, You've always been/The beginning and the end".
'Brighter Days' is an adult contemporary ballad of longing: "You see I'm looking for the brighter days/When all my hurts seem to fade away/I'm looking for the brighter days to come my way/I'll see the sun one day shine upon me/I'll see the sun one day/And watch the nighttime turn to morning/But for now it all comes back around". 'Falling For You' contains these words of testimony: "It feels so good to be in Your arms/You never left me/I just chose to stay behind/I want to thank You for Your love/That gives me freedom/To run back, to come back".
'Don't Go Away' is an energetic pop/rock song about spiritual passion: "First comes salvation, then comes obsession/Fire starts with a flicker/And it consumes me/Suddenly I feel I can follow You blindly/Because You've covered my eyes with love/You've given me more than enough (2X)/Hide away in Your arms of grace/Living life the way You want me to". 'Thief in the Night' follows. It's a beautiful modern worship song: "I'll sing the glories of Your Name/Your awesomeness I will proclaim/Until You come/Until You come and take Your bride away/Like a thief in the night (2X)/You'll take us away". Last up is 'May Our Praise'. It begins: "May our praise be all that You can hear/From our lives to Your ears, Father".
OPPOSITE WAY contains seven slow songs and four faster ones. The main musical genres here are: pop, rock, and modern worship. God's love for us and faithfulness to us, His children, are celebrated. Our response should be one of love and praise to God. His plan for our lives is salvation and to prosper us. He gave His very Son for us! We should dare to be a different people. We should live for Jesus, being a light and a witness for Him. Fans of Sanctus Real, Audio Adrenaline, and Hawk Nelson should acquire OPPOSITE WAY, which I'm rating 95%. For more info visit: www.leelandonline.com or connect with the band on Facebook.
Sara Lee Colbaugh, who we know as Sara Groves, was born on September 10, 1972. According to Wikipedia.org, in 1994 she got her Bachelor of Science degree in History and English from Evangel University in Missouri. She was a high school teacher for four years in Rosemount, Minnesota. In 1998 she independently released her debut album, PAST THE WISHING. Fast forward to 2001 and INO Records released her CONVERSATIONS project. Sara wrote all the songs and the album was produced by Nate Sabin. Sara dedicates this album to her husband Troy, her "partner in everything".
Jeffrey Roach plays piano and Peter Ostroushko the mandolin, on the adult contemporary title track, 'Conversations'. It includes these beautiful words: "And I'm not trying to judge you/No, that's not my job/I am just a seeker too/In search of God.../The only thing that isn't meaningless to me/Is Jesus Christ and the way He set me free/And this is all that I have/This is all that I am/It's all that I have". 'The Word' is a terrific pop song that begins with confession: "I've done every devotional/Been every place emotional/Trying to hear a new word from God/And I think it's very odd/That while I attempt to help myself/My Bible sits upon the shelf/With every promise I could ever need/And the Word was/And the Word is/And the Word will be".
'Painting Pictures of Egypt' is a wonderful, thoughtful adult contemporary song: "I've been painting pictures of Egypt/Leaving out what it lacks/The future feels so hard/And I want to go back/But the places that used to fit me/Cannot hold the things I've learned/Those roads were closed off to me/While my back was turned". 'Hello Lord' quietly petitions God: "I don't doubt Your sovereignty/I doubt my own ability to hear what You're saying/And to do the right thing/And I desperately want to do the right thing/But right now I don't hear so well/And I was wondering if You could speak up".
'Generations' is a light pop song about the importance of our actions: "And to say that the devil made me do it/Is a cop out and a lie/The devil can't make me do anything/When I'm calling on Jesus Christ/Remind me of this with every decision/Generations will reap what I sow/I can pass on a curse or a blessing/To those I will never know". 'This Journey is My Own' was inspired by John Ortberg's book THE LIFE YOU'VE ALWAYS WANTED. This inspirational song is one of introspection: "So much of what I do is to make a good impression/This journey is my own/And so much of what I say is to make myself look better/But this journey is my own/And why would I want to live for man, and pay the highest price?/And what does it mean to gain a whole world, only to lose my life?"
Matt Pierson plays bass on `How is it Between Us`, an adult pop song about our need for Christ in our daily lives: `When I wake up I am on my way/Reinventing the wheel and saving the day/I have learned this lesson a thousand times/I am the branch and You are the vine/Apart from You we are mice and men/With our fancy dreams of grandeur and no way to get there/Oh, I can think about You now and then/Or I can make a mark on eternity/Lord, first of all, how is it between You and me?" 'What Do I Know' is a beautiful, easy listening story song that uses cello, viola, and violin: "She lost her husband after sixty years/And as he slipped away she still had things to say/Death can be so inconvenient/You try to live and love/It comes and interrupts/And what do I know?/What do I know?/Well, I don't know that there are harps in heaven/Or the process for earning your wings/And I don't know of bright lights at the ends of tunnels or any of these things".
Peter Ostroushko plays fiddle on 'Cave of Adullum'. It's about David: "I need to know You're near me/I need to know You are holding me just as closely as the day You took my life and gave me a vision/As the day You poured the oil and gave me a dream/I can't believe this is happening/How does a shepherd become a king?" Gary Burnett plays guitar. 'Know My Heart' is a folk song with a prayerful chorus: "Search me and know my heart, oh God/See if there is any wrong thing in me/All I have ever wanted are clean hands and a pure heart".
Sara longs for heaven on the quiet ballad 'Going Home'. She sings: "There's a feeling I can't capture/It's always just a prayer away/I want to know the ending/Things hoped for but not seen/But I guess that's the point of hoping anyway/Of going home, I'll meet You at the table/Going home, I'll meet You in the air/And You are never too young to think about it/Oh, I cannot wait to be home". Sara plays piano and Solveg Peterson the cello on 'He's Always Been Faithful'. It's a song of testimony: "I can't remember a trial or a pain/He did not recycle to bring me gain/I can't remember one single regret/In serving God only and trusting His hand/All I have need of, His hand will provide/He's always been faithful to me". Last up is a live version of 'Tent in the Center of Town', dedicated to Pastor Philip Wannemacher. It was recorded at Apostolic Bible Church on July 25, 1999. The music has a circus like feel to it, but it's a song about God moving: "And revival hits like a wave/And hundreds are joyously saved/And the thief and adulterer lay it all on the altar/Cause there's grace in the center of town".
CONVERSATIONS is a creative and artistic endeavor from Sara Groves. There is nothing fancy or frilly about her, but her self-penned songs have a way of speaking to the heart. This album, which is comprised of light pop, adult contemporary, and folk/easy listening music, depicts life as a journey. By times we are tempted to sin or to try to please other people, but our true identity can only be found in God. He is faithful to us and wants to speak through His Word and have an intimate relationship with us. Also, our hope of heaven is celebrated in a couple of the songs here. This is a lengthy record, clocking in at 58 minutes and 44 seconds. I'm rating it 100% and recommending it to fans of Twila Paris, Michael Card, and Sarah McLachlan. For more info visit: www.saragroves.com.
Phil Driscoll was born on November 9, 1947 in Seattle, Washington. In the 1970's he worked with the likes of Joe Cocker, Leon Russell, and Billy Preston. In the late 70's he became a Christian. In 1985 he and Debby Boone won a Grammy for Best Gospel Performance-Duo/Group for the song 'Keep the Flame Burning'. Over the years he has been a master of the trumpet. Let's fast forward to 1996 when he released the album A DIFFERENT MAN (Word). It was produced by Chris Harris.
1. First up is 'Road to Jerusalem' a composition by Michael W. Smith, David Mullen, and Chris Harris. It's a nice adult pop song featuring Dana Powell & The Straight Gate Choir. It's about a heavenly journey: "Somebody say 'Hallelujah!'/Somebody say 'Amen!'/The road is shown to all of God's children/Cause we are one heart, one mind/We seek the truth and find/Find it in Jerusalem/One faith, one God/Blessed are the feet that walk/The road to New Jerusalem".
2. 'Walk With Me Jesus' is a gospel prayer: "Walk with me Jesus/On this journey/The road is too rocky/To make it alone/In the darkest night/You'll lead me to morning/Walk with me Jesus/Soon we'll be home".
3. Dennis Matkosky and Richard Page wrote the lovely adult pop title track 'A Different Man'. It's about a spiritual transformation: "You turned me around/You gave me a brave new start/I was longing for a thrill/But only You could fill my empty heart/All the love You have given/All my past You have forgiven".
4. 'Christ Remains' is one of two songs penned by the duo of Scott Krippayne and Tony Wood. Phil plays the piccolo trumpet on this easy listening number about Jesus' faithfulness to us: "My provider, my protector/Always watching over me/My comforter, my counselor/He is all I need/My constant in the chaos/My source of strength unchanged/Everyday the same/Christ remains, Christ remains".
5. 'Everytime I Say Yes' finds Billy Mason playing the Hammond B-3 and piano, Terry McMillan playing harmonica, and Eric Silver playing the mandolin. This one's an upbeat pop/soul song many of us will be able to relate to: "God, I gotta tell You/That You're scaring me again/Well, You're asking me to do something/I'm not really sure I can/Well, I'm trying to figure out Your plan/But the pieces don't fit/Well, I've been here before/Looking back I must admit/Everytime I say 'yes' to You/Seems there's something wonderful You're waiting to do".
6. 'Place in My Heart' is an uplifting song that finds Will McFarlane and George Cocchini on guitars, and Jimmy Lee Sloas on bass. It also finds God speaking words of reassurance to us, His children: "No matter where you go/How near or far/My love will be with you/Right where you are/Just think of me and know/You still have a place in my heart".
7. Next up is a cover of John Lennon and Paul McCartney's 'The Long and Winding Road'. This song appeared on The Beatles' 1970 album LET IT BE. Driscoll plays the flumpet on this inspirational ballad of a spiritually longing pilgrim: "Don't keep me waiting here/Lead me to Your door/The long and winding road/That leads to Your door/Will never disappear/I've seen that road before/It always leads me here/Leads me to Your door".
8. Lynn Keesecker wrote the jazzed up pop song 'Can God? God Can!' It's a praise and worship number: "Who can make an enemy into a friend?/Who can bring the bad times to an end?/Who can open up all the deaf ears?/Who can dry up all of the tears?/Raise the dead, give them life again?/Can God? God can!/Yes, God can!/Move a mighty mountain/He can conquer all impossibilities/Can God? God can!/Yes, God can!/In the desert make a fountain/Who can answer prayer?/Oh, I know God can!" This is the album's shortest song at under three minutes.
9. 'Love Won't Let Me' is the album's longest song at over six minutes. This slow ballad is actually a good love song: "Love has captured me, love has set me free/Love has taken me this far/Think I'm gonna stay awhile/Think I'm gonna stay awhile.../I commit to you my love, forever/I commit to you forever, together/Laying down my life for the one I really love/Can be the only love that's real".
10. Chris Harris and Matt Huesmann wrote the gentle ballad 'The Time of Your Life'. It has a good message for us even in 2018: "It's time to show love, it's time to be kind/It's time to share the gift of life, and hope, and joy/Every heart needs to find/It's time to be true/It's time to follow the road in view/And live to hear the words/'Well done, my son/You've given the time of your life'". Lisa Cochran sings a bit of a female lead at one point.
11. Last up is 'The Lights of the City' (also known as 'I See the Lights of the City') written by Ray Lewis. It dates back to 1967. This gospel number anticipates heaven: "Well, I can almost see the lights of the city/Oh, they're shining, shining down on me/I can almost see, oh the lights of the city/Forever Lord, I shall be free".
A DIFFERENT MAN is certainly of professional quality! Style-wise you will find adult contemporary, adult pop, and gospel music presented here. There are six faster paced songs and five slower paced. Phil testifies that God alone can transform us and situations in our lives into something beautiful and new. God is faithful and good and loves us, His children. We should desire intimacy with God and seek out His guidance during life's journey. A couple of the songs anticipate eternity in heaven, and there is a romantic love song thrown in for good measure. I'm rating A DIFFERENT MAN 90%. Fans of the vocal stylings of Michael Bolton, Joe Cocker, and Clay Crosse should pick this one up. For more info visit: www.phildriscoll.com.
Building 429 take their name from Ephesians 4:29 which reads: "Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up, according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen". SPACE IN BETWEEN US (2004, Essential) was their first full-length album on a major label. 'Glory Defined', the first track from it, became a #1 hit on several Christian charts and to this day remains a signature song for them. In 2005 the band won a Dove Award for 'New Artist of the Year'. Fast forward to 2008 and they released the self-titled BUILDING 429 (INO), which I will be reviewing here.
1. The album begins with 'Not Gonna Let You Down' written by Scott Faircloff, Jesse Garcia, Jason Roy, Michael Anderson, and Chris Stevens. It's a strong rock song of encouragement: "This is the hope that you've been longing to know/God is alive and He's never left you alone/So hold on through the tears.../Lift up your soul, don't you let go/Lift up your soul/Never let go".
2. 'End of Me' is a good rock song about spiritual surrender: "Once upon a time the story goes/I laid it all down and let it go/To lose it all, to lose it all/I took a step of faith and said goodbye/Everything I had I left behind to find true life/Well, all I longed for I found finally/At the end of me".
3. 'Erase' finds Claire Indie on cello and Zach Casebolt on violin. There is also some nice electric guitar work on this rock ballad that serves as a love song: "I can always go back to the place of you and me/And I will find you once again/Just like I remember/Time it will erase the world around us/But I will never be alone/Cause time can't erase love".
4. Tony Wood and James Rueger wrote 'Overcome'. It's a great modern praise and worship song: "Your heart was moved with such mercy/That in love You endured the cross/You've overcome the world/Rescued my soul/I don't have to worry/Cause whatever comes, You're in control/Forever I will worship You/I'm amazed by the things You have done/I am overcome".
5. 'Always' is one of two songs written solely by Jason Roy. This one is an adult contemporary ballad that begins with this emotional picture: "I was standing in the pouring rain one dark November night/Fighting off the bitter cold when she caught my eye/Her face was taught and her eyes were filled/And to my surprise she pulled out a photograph and my heart just stopped inside/She said 'He would have been three today/I miss his smile/I miss his face'".
6. Jason Roy and Sam Mizell wrote 'Shoulder', a melodic song about God's faithfulness: "And if you're on top of the world and you fall down/You're shaking inside and you can't find your ground/When you lose yourself, God will find you/Yeah, you need to know that the door is open/When you're broken/Come on, step on through".
7. 'Bring Me Back' serves as a sincere adult contemporary prayer: "Bring me back to the innocence of You/And bring me back to the first love I ever knew/Back to the way that it was when I was young/I'm tired of the mess that I've become/I want to see the world the way You do/So bring me back to You".
8. The uplifting pop song, 'Your Love Goes On', is up next: "One hope is never gonna change/One truth is certainty today/That Your love goes on/One promise covered all our shame/One Savior died to take the pain/And His love goes on and on.../Your love goes on/I see it and I feel it/We're not alone/I know that Your love goes on".
9. 'Coming Home' is a strong rock song told from the perspective of a prodigal son: "Every other road carried me away to anger/And every destination was just another point of danger, so/I'm coming home (2X)/There's nothing left to prove anymore/I'm coming home (2X)/So father, don't you close that door/Won't you wait for me when the sun goes down?/I'll be running straight to You/I'm coming home (2X)".
10. Last up is 'Oxygen (Bringing Me Back to Life)'. It's a cry to God for help: "And if I could breathe You in/I'll be sure to hold my breath/Cause You are like oxygen/Bringing me to life/So here I stand once again/Open me and come on in/Cause You are like oxygen/Bringing me to life".
I am quite impressed with this, my first album ever owned from Building 429. These songs offer hope and encouragement for those going through dark valleys and trials in life. These songs specifically point to God's faithfulness and love for us and encourage us to have an intimate and personal relationship with Him. That will not take all of our problems away, but it will help us navigate them. Jason Roy's lead vocals are quite good. On this album there are about an equal number of rock and adult contemporary songs. The band plays both equally well. I'm rating BUILDING 429 a 95% and recommending it to fans of Kutless and Jeremy Camp. For more info visit: www.building429.com and www.inorecords.com.
Brooke Nicholls is a Canadian worship leader/songwriter. Her bio states: "Seven years into a pop music career; three independent records, and many missed successes later, Brooke began looking backward, at all the heartache and disappointment, and saw very clearly the hand of God guiding her each step of the way-and so she wrote". The result was 2016's FOUND IN YOU. It was produced by her husband Steve Lensink. In the liner notes, Brooke writes: "Thanks Jesus-The reason I sing, the reason I worship, and the reason I write. Without You, my purpose in all of this wouldn't exist. Thank You Lord for calling me into the unknown with grace and everlasting love". In 2018 Brooke won two GMA Canada awards: 'New Artist of the Year' and 'Female Vocalist of the Year'. She has shared the stage with the likes of MercyMe, Love & The Outcome, and The Color.
1. First up is 'Beauty from Ashes'. It's one of five songs on this project that are solely penned by Brooke. This one is an adult contemporary ballad that speaks of God's transforming power: "Once empty, made whole/Rekindled light burns within my soul/You're near me, I'm restored/Hope alive, I will rise/Stronger than before/Beauty from ashes with peace that surpasses/You turned my mourning into joy/Hearts that are broken find healing unspoken/You turned my silence into song".
2. Brooke co-wrote the title track, 'Found in You', with fellow Canadian artist Dan Macaulay. It's a great light pop song about finding one's identity in Jesus: "I rest in Your truth, perfectly loved by You/No condemnation, my one salvation/I rest in Your truth, perfectly loved by You/No condemnation, Jesus I belong to You/And the truth's that I am found in You/Covered by unending love/I am enough".
3. Fanny J. Crosby and Phoebe P. Knapp wrote one of the Christian faith's most beloved hymns, 'Blessed Assurance'. The melody is toyed with on this version to modernize it a bit and it works well. It's still a song of personal testimony: "Perfect submission, all is at rest/I, in my Saviour, am happy and blessed/Watching and waiting, looking above/Filled with His goodness, lost in His love, oh His love, yeah/This is my story, this is my song/Praising my Saviour all the day long".
4. 'All I Need to Know' is a beautiful adult contemporary song of faith: "When the night is closing in/Fear begins to whisper I am not enough/Then the dawn begins to break/You have come to rescue/You have come to save/I will praise You in the dark/I'll praise You when it's hard/I will sing through all the pain/There's victory in Your Name/You, God-You never let me go/You God-Your strength is all I need to know".
5. 'Grace Today (A Prayer)' is a pretty easy listening number that declares reliance on God: "You speak to me so humbly/Reminding me You're all I need/Nothing else could ever satisfy/Grace today, I need Your grace.../Your power made perfect/When I'm weak You're strong/Your grace sufficient/I find my rest though a thorn in my flesh/Your grace sufficient".
6. The classic hymn 'How Great Thou Art' follows. Here it is essentially presented as a modern praise and worship song: "And when I think that God, His Son not sparing/Sent Him to die, I scarce can take it in/That on the cross, my burden gladly bearing/He bled and died, to take away my sin/Then sings my soul/My Saviour God to Thee/'How Great Thou art! How Great Thou art!'"
7. Next up is the album's lead single, 'Home', which hit #1 on Canada's largest Christian radio station. It's an adult contemporary song that invites people to come to Christ: "Come blind, come cripple/Come be made new/The gates of pearl are open/New life is waiting you/Oh, come thief, come beggar, come confess/Your history's rewritten/Yes, in heaven find your rest, living in eternity".
8. 'I Am Free' seems autobiographical and is moving: "Like a sheep gone astray/I had turned my own way/Wandering alone, I was lost/A slave to my shame/I could not make my own way/I never understood the cost/He came to pay my debt/He came to make a way/I am free/Bought by the blood of the King/Jesus laid His life down for me/Broke the chains that bound and rescued me/So that I could live free/I am free".
9. Last up is Eugene Monroe Bartlett's vintage praise and worship tune 'Victory in Jesus' which we used to sing at my home church a lot back in the day. Here, the song is presented in a tender, subdued, ballad manner. It is splendid and still reflects on Calvary and salvation: "Oh victory in Jesus, my Saviour forever/He sought me and He bought me with His redeeming blood/He loved me ere I knew Him/And all my love is due Him/He plunged me to victory beneath the cleansing flood".
FOUND IN YOU is comprised of mainly slower, quieter modern praise and worship and adult contemporary fare. The people you will hear on this record are: Brooke Nicholls (vocals, keys), Steve Lensink (guitars, vocals, keys, programming), Justin Brix (guitars), Jared Fox (guitars, programming), and Jacob Schrodt (drums). The message of this album is that it is only in Jesus Christ that we can find our true identity. Through Christ, the Father loves on us, gives us His grace, heals us, restores us, and gives us His joy. Songs of testimony are found on this project. Gratitude for the cross, the blood of Jesus being shed, salvation, God's keeping power even in the dark times, and His creation are expressed here. It is made clear that Heaven is our true home. I'm rating this project 85.5%. For more info visit: www.brookenicholls.ca or connect with her on Facebook.
Darlene Joyce Steinhardt, who we now know by her married name, Darlene Zschech, was born on September 8, 1965 in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia. At ten she was part of an Australian children's show 'Happy Go Round'. She has sung jingles for companies such as McDonald's, KFC, and Coca-Cola. She released her solo debut, MAKE THE CHOICE, in 1987. In 1993 she wrote her signature song 'Shout to the Lord' which became a massive praise and worship hit internationally. She joined the staff of Hillsong Church, and has went on to release a few more solo albums. The one I will be reviewing here is 2011's YOU ARE LOVE (Fair Trade/Columbia). In the liner notes Darlene writes: "These songs have been gathered, written, and recorded as I continue to walk this journey of loving and worshiping my King in every season...and as my heart discovers new ways and new melodies to sing a very earnest THANK YOU".
1. 'Under Grace' is one of seven songs penned solely by Darlene. David Davidson is responsible for the lovely string arrangements on this light pop song of personal testimony: "Under grace, You cover my failing again/Heavenly rain, You wash all my fear away, away/When I woke today, the sun was not hiding away/And hope filled my world once again/My life forever, changed by the Master/My life forever, given to praise/And I`m forever grateful for my salvation/Washing over all my sin/You are washing over all my sin".
2. Michael Gungor, Israel Houghton, and Darlene co-wrote 'Saving Me', a joyful, bouncy pop song featuring Darlene's daughter Zoe Z: "Love is saving me/Everything I am becoming free to love/You're saving me, Your love saving me/This beauty for ashes/Your love changing me/Your presence is calling me/Oh hear the sound of salvation".
3. The title track, 'You are Love', is a beautiful praise and worship anthem: "You are love/Love unfailing, love divine/You are love/Love that mends a heart like mine/You are love/Lifted high for all to see/You are love/The heavens sing of Your glory/You are love, You are love".
4. 'We are Your People' is a modern worship song of spiritual consecration: "We are Your people/We live to worship/We live to carry Your Name/Making a way by Your love/To move every mountain/We're living with healing and grace/We carry Your Name, Jesus". Electric guitar is put to good use here.
5. 'I Will Wait' runs over six and a half minutes long. It is one of two co-writes between Darlene and Israel Houghton. This wonderful adult contemporary ballad that builds in musical intensity is one of spiritual dedication: "Though the storms may rage around me/In the eye I will rest my soul/Lord I love You more than life itself/This I know/I will wait for You/I will wait/Lord, I'll wait for You/I will wait/In Your presence I surrender/Laying down all my foolish pride/As this deep calls unto deep/I will love You with all my life".
6. 'Beautiful' includes these calming words: "Oh peace, flood my soul/Be still my anxious heart/When I don't understand/You hold me/Peace, flood my soul/You're beautiful/Amazing love over me/You're beautiful/A love beyond all I see".
7. Next up is 'Hope for Humanity', which points everyone directly to Christ: "Jesus, Jesus/Saviour, Emmanuel/Oh Jesus, my Jesus/Healer, only You are/Hope for all humanity/Jesus, my Lord/The hope of the world is Jesus".
8. 'Faithful' is a great modern worship song: "You rescue me from enemy lines/You're reaching down from heaven's open skies/You run to my defense, You cover me/For when I am weak/You are strong/Savior, all my days in Your hands/Redeemer, every dream, every plan/Father, at Your word I respond/You are my God, You are faithful".
9. 'Cry of the Broken' includes a nice electric guitar solo and expresses gratitude for Calvary: "You were wounded for my sin and You were bruised for all my shame/You were broken for my healing/Only by the cross I am saved".
10. 'Face to Face' is an easy listening number that is a duet with Barry Southgate. Stu Garrard plays guitar while Tony Lucido plays bass. The song paints a beautiful picture with these words: "My searching heart was aching for a place to find a home/You knocked upon its doors, I asked You in/Oh, You loved me into life and all its fullness/Now I know that I am Yours forever/You are mine".
11. Last up is a Bonus Exclusive Australian Mix of 'Under Grace'.
Darlene Zschech's vocals are just lovely to listen to on YOU ARE LOVE. This album is comprised of mostly slow adult contemporary, modern worship, and light pop songs. Made clear is the fact that we all need to have a personal, intimate relationship with Jesus Christ. Also we should worship God. Our God is full of beauty, grace, mercy, love, healing, and holiness. He provided a way through the death and resurrection of Christ for us to receive forgiveness and salvation. In addition, we are reminded to share God and His message of love with people who don't yet know Him. The Cd booklet is nicely put together with some beautiful shots. I'm rating YOU ARE LOVE 95%. For more info visit: www.darlenezschech.com or connect with her on Facebook.
Steve Green was born on August 1st, 1956 in Portland Oregon. He spent a lot of his early life in Argentina as his folks were Baptist missionaries. He sang tenor on the first two albums by the Gaither Vocal Band and also sang lead on White Heart's self-titled debut album in 1982. Fast forward to 1984 and he put out his self-titled debut solo project (Sparrow). It was produced by Greg Nelson. In the liner notes Steve thanks: "My Lord, for the miracle of salvation and reconciliation, and for the promise of continuing the work that He started. Praise the Lord-Hallelujah!"
1. First up is 'Lift Up A Song', a short, but jubilant praise and worship song of victory: "Oh it is Jesus/The Lamb who has saved us/Who now has been raised and is seated in power/At the hand of the Father/Behold His presence/Comes to His temple/As the redeemed of the Lord join the dance of the passover Lamb (2X)".
2. Melodie Tunney, Dick Tunney, and Bev Darnall wrote the upbeat Christian pop song, 'Looking for the City' which anticipates heaven: "Since the moment of new birth/I've been a stranger on this Earth/An exile of promise living in this world/But with my new eyes of faith/I`m looking for the day/When I'll be gone from this house and at home with the Lord".
3. 'Bring Back the Glory' was penned by Bill and Gloria Gaither and Bill George. It's an inspirational ballad that begins by describing what it's like to be in a spiritual valley: "All the laughter is gone/And the sound of the song that we sang/Slowly faded away/Simple joys that we knew/When we walked close with You, hand in hand in the cool of the day/Are just memories/Or are they dreams?/Yet we hold to the hope/That the music will come back again/Bring back the Glory/Won't You show us what life is for?/Bring back the Glory/Make us open once more".
4. 'Proclaim the Glory of the Lord' is an upbeat praise and worship number that is definitely joyful: "He is our Messiah, our Savior and our King/Let all our voices join as one/And fill the Earth with singing/Glory to our God!/His greatness we applaud/Let every race on every shore/Proclaim the glory of the Lord!"
5. Dony McGuire and Reba Rambo co-wrote 'Wounded Soldier', an easy listening ballad about bearing one another's burdens: "Obeying their orders/They fought on the front lines for our King/Capturing the enemy's stronghold/Weakened from battle/Satan crept in to steal their lives/Don't let a wounded soldier die/Come let us pour the oil/Come let us bind the hurt/Let's cover them with a blanket of His love".
6. 'Lamb of Glory' is a moving praise and worship anthem centered around Calvary: "Precious Lamb of Glory/Love's most wondrous story/Heart of God's redemption of man/Worship the Lamb of Glory/On the cross God loved the world/While all the powers of hell were hurled/No one there could understand/The one they saw was Christ the Lamb".
7. Horns are arranged by Dan Cleary on 'Other Side of the Grave', a light Christian pop song of testimony: "We are alive in Christ/Dead to the world/Free from the sin that enslaves/In His death we died/In His life we live again/On the other side of the grave".
8. 'Broken and Spilled Out' is the longest song at over five minutes in length. It expresses gratitude for Calvary: "And though You were perfect and holy/You gave up yourself willingly/You spared no expense for my pardon/You were used up and wasted for me/Broken and spilled out/Just for love of me, Jesus/God's most precious treasure lavished on me".
9. Mark Gersmehl and Billy Smiley of White Heart co-wrote 'You Can Be (As Full as You Want to Be)' with Dwight Liles and Steve Green. This one's a peppy pop song about totally surrendering to Jesus: "You can be as full as you want to be/Look inside your heart and you will see/All the places that you need to give to Him/Open up your heart and you will see/You can be as full as you want to be/But it's up to you how much you let Him in/Let Him in".
10. Last up is 'People Need the Lord', one of two co-writes on the album by Greg Nelson and Phil McHugh. It would become one of Steve's signature songs over the years. This splendid adult contemporary ballad is about sharing the Gospel with the lost: "Every day they pass me by/I can see it in their eyes/Empty people filled with care/Headed who knows where/On they go through private pain/Living fear to fear/Laughter hides their silent cries/Only Jesus hears/People need the Lord (2X)/At the end of broken dreams/He's the open door/People need the Lord (2X)/When will we realize/People need the Lord".
STEVE GREEN has five fast songs and five slow ones on it. The main musical genres are light pop and inspirational, with touches of easy listening and adult contemporary mixed in. Praising and worshiping God for who He is and what He has done is prevalent on this album. Also prevalent is the story of how Christ came to earth to purchase our salvation at Calvary. God's love for us is great! A desire for intimacy with God is expressed. Also, we are encouraged to care for others, whether they be Christians or not. Steve's vocals are great as are the backing vocals. I'm rating this one a perfect 100%. For more info visit: www.stevegreenministries.org or look him up on Facebook.
In 1989 Word Records released the multi-artist project OUR HYMNS. It was executive produced by Loren Balman and Michael Blanton.
1. First up is a laid back version of 'Holy, Holy, Holy'. Michael W. Smith gives a nice vocal here. The Christ Church Choir and Donna McElroy are among the other singers on this essentially praise and worship classic: "Holy, holy, holy!/Lord God Almighty!/Early in the morning my song shall rise to Thee/Holy, holy, holy!/Merciful and mighty!/God in three Persons, blessed Trinity".
2. Amy Grant sings "'Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus', while Gary Chapman plays bass. Dulcimer and accordion are two of the other instruments used on this rootsy, Americana song about having faith: "'Tis so sweet to trust in Jesus/Just to take Him at His word/Just to rest upon His promise/Just to know/'Thus saith the Lord'.../I'm so glad I learned to trust Thee/Precious Jesus, Savior, Friend/And I know that Thou art with me/Wilt be with me to the end".
3. Bruce Carroll presents 'More Love to Thee' in an easy listening manner. It's a quiet, reverent song: "More love to Thee/More love to Thee!/Hear Thou the prayer I make on bended knee/This is my earnest plea/More love, O Christ to Thee/More love to Thee/More love to Thee!"
4. Christian dance queen Kim Boyce brings a slow R&B groove to 'I Must Tell Jesus'. It features Kirk Whalum on sax and Alphie Silas and Jean McRath on backing vocals. It's sung from the standpoint of one with an intimate relationship with Christ: "I must tell Jesus all of my troubles/He's a kind, compassionate friend/If I but ask Him, He will deliver/Make of my troubles quickly an end/O how the world to evil allures me!/O how my heart is tempted to sin!/I must tell Jesus, and He will help me/Over the world-victory to win".
5. Russ Taff delivers a soulful version of 'Near the Cross' which will lift your spirits. Julie Miller is a guest vocalist. Again, this song speaks of a personal relationship with Christ: "Jesus, keep me, keep me near the cross/For there is a precious, precious fountain/O it's free, free to all, a healing, cleansing stream/And it flows from Calv'ry's, Calv'ry's mountain/Always near, keep me Jesus/Let it, let it be my glory ever/Till my raptured soul, soul shall find/Rest, rest beyond the river".
6. Next up is a gem from Phil Keaggy. It's called 'Prelude: Bach's Bourree/O God, Our Help in Ages Past'. Smitty Price plays keyboards and Phil as usual is great on guitar. This track begins as a soothing instrumental and transitions into a light adult pop number. It includes these prayerful lyrics: "O God, our help in ages past/Our hope for years to come/Be Thou our guard while life shall last/And our eternal home/Our home (4X)/O God, lead us, guide us, we pray".
7. First Call presents 'O Sacred Head, Now Wounded'. It reflects on Calvary: "O sacred Head, now wounded/With grief and shame weighed down/Now scornfully surrounded/With thorns Thine only crown/How pale Thou art with anguish/With sore abuse and scorn/How does that visage languish/Which once was bright as morn!/What Thou, my Lord, hast suffered/Was all for sinners' gain/O mine was the transgression/But Thine the deadly pain". Tommy Sims plays bass.
8. Wayne Watson presents a great adult contemporary version of 'It is Well with My Soul'. These words anticipate heaven: "O then Lord, hurry the day when the faith shall be sight/The clouds be rolled back as a scroll/The trump shall resound and the Lord shall descend/Even so, it is well with my soul".
9. Take 6 put their cool acappella spin on 'The Savior is Waiting', a song of spiritual invitation: "The Savior is waiting to enter your heart/Why don't you let Him in? (2X)/There's nothing in this world to keep you apart/Why won't you answer Him? (2X)/Time after time He has waited before/And now He is waiting again/To see if you're willing to open the door/O how He wants to come in/If you'll take one look at the Savior, my friend/You'll find His arms open wide (2X)".
10. Last up is a rock battle cry from Petra, 'Onward, Christian Soldiers', which begins with these words: "Onward, Christian soldiers/Marching as to war/With the cross of Jesus/Going on before!/Onward, then, ye people/Join our happy throng/Blend with us your voices/In our triumph song". John Elefante and Dave Amado are on background vocals.
OUR HYMNS was a kind of who's who of Contemporary Christian musicians at the time. It was a forerunner to many multi-artist projects that would follow, such as the CITY ON A HILL series. On OUR HYMNS there are seven slower songs and three faster paced ones. Adult contemporary and easy listening are the main musical styles, but we are given samples of Americana, R&B, acapella, and rock music as well. Loving and trusting Jesus Christ and a gratitude for His sacrifice at Calvary are main themes. God's love for us and His holiness are made clear here. This is a pretty decent praise and worship record. I'm rating it 90%. For more info visit the artists' official web pages or connect with them on facebook/twitter.
Carman Domenic Licciardello was born on January 19, 1956 in Trenton, New Jersey. He became a Christian at an Andrae Crouch concert. In 1980 Carman released GOD'S NOT FINISHED WITH ME. The next year he toured with The Bill Gaither Trio. In 1982 Carman released a self-titled album, later known as SOME-O-DAT. The next year saw the release of the live album SUNDAY'S ON THE WAY. In 1984 Carman released COMIN' ON STRONG (Word/Epic), which I'll be reviewing here. Carman wrote all nine songs himself. The album was produced by Keith Thomas and executive produced by Lynn Nichols. Carman calls this album an assault on Satan's kingdom. Also, in the liner notes, he writes: "To Jim and Tammy Bakker and all my P.T.L. family for helping to keep my ministry alive through some real hard times. I love you all".
1. First up is the great Christian rock song 'Get Outta My Life'. Jon Goin provides a guitar solo while Bonnie Keen, Ellen Dockery, and Keith Thomas are on background vocals. Here, Carman rebukes the devil: "You've tried and you've lost/To be my boss/But devil your tricks are through/Put your sickness and pain on a hell bound train/Your cheating and your lying tongue too/I wanna make this very clear.../In the name of Jesus Christ/Get outta my life!"
2. 'This Thing is Real' is a cool sounding light pop song about an experience with the Holy Ghost: "Frightened in the back row, there I sat/I must admit I was nervous as a cat/Well, I felt the Spirit's groove/I then started to move/The Holy Ghost done showed me there where it's really at/Was it a dream?/Too real it seemed/But you oughta hear me scream/This thing is real (2X)/This automatic, all-fanatic blessing I feel/Well, you may not understand/Why we shout and clap our hands/It's only because this thing is real//Let me tell you how it feels/It's just like fire shut up in my bones!"
3. Next up is a lovely praise and worship ballad 'His Mercy Endures Forever'. Strings are arranged by Bergen White and Mark Casstevens plays acoustic guitar. The song is about redemption: "If your sin has dimmed the Spirit's light/There's forgiveness through the blood of Jesus Christ/He'll restore your torn and shattered life/That's the reason I can say/That I will confess/That my spirit's at rest/'Cause His mercy endures forever/Though my troubles won't cease/Yet my mind is at peace/Cause His mercy endures forever".
4. 'Spirit Filled Pizza' isn't something you can order at Pizza Hut or Domino's. Terry McMillan plays harmonica and percussion and Tom Hemby plays mandolin on this part spoken, part rock 'n' roll novelty track. It's about getting saved and witnessing-claiming other people's lives for Jesus Christ. Pentecostals will enjoy this one.
5. Keith Thomas plays synthesizers on the easy listening song 'Ask of Me'. It finds God speaking to His children lovingly: "Ask of Me/Don't turn to any other/Can't you see, you'll never be a bother?/Just believe that I can be your answer/My beloved child/Ask of Me/Don't search in other places/Can't you see that I'll be your oasis in that dry and thirsty world you live in?/I'll be your cup of water/If only you will give in and ask of Me".
6. 'Blessed Is He Who Comes' has a warm Caribbean feel to it and is definitely Scripturally based: "On a little donkey two-thousand years ago/Christ rode into Jerusalem/So all the world would know/He was fulfilling prophecy and everyone could sing/And worship their Savior, Messiah, and King/And they sang 'Hosanna, Hosanna/Blessed is He who comes in the Name of the Lord!/Hosanna, Hosanna/Blessed is He who comes in the Name of the Lord!'"
7. Kim Fleming, Patti Leatherwood, and Keith Thomas provide backing vocals on the pop/rock number 'He is The Son of God'. It shares the Gospel message: "He sacrificed His life on a cross for all our sin/So man could have communion with his Maker once again/After three short days He rose up from the dead/And proved to everyone they should have believed Him when He said/That He is the Son of God/Oh, He is the Son of God/Well, He is the Son of God/Oh, He is the Son of God/I don't care what you've been told or what lies you have bought/He is the Lord/The King of Kings/He is the Son of God".
8. 'Lazarus Come Forth' is one of Carman's famous storytelling songs. It imagines Lazarus, who has died on earth, hanging out with the saints who have gone before him, like Elijah, Moses, Solomon, and Daniel, at a testimony meeting. Carman utilizes humor to good effect here, and of course Jesus eventually raises Lazarus from the dead and he returns to earth to the delight of his sisters Mary and Martha. This one runs over six minutes long.
9. Last up is 'The Light of Jesus to the World' which is dedicated to Jimmy Swaggart. Don Potter plays guitar. This adult contemporary song is about fulfilling the Great Commission and begins with these words: "Who's gonna take the Shield of Faith out into the ghettos and witness to the street gangs of the night?/Who's gonna be the bold one to tell the pimps and prostitutes the affection that they crave is found in Christ?/Who'll take the Breastplate of Righteousness into this country's schools and preach holiness to every boy and girl?/Well, it's you and it's me who'll witness for the Savior/And be the Light of Jesus to the world".
COMIN' ON STRONG is an absolutely terrific album even though it only clocks in at 36 minutes and 35 seconds. The fast songs outnumber the slow ones, and the musical genres you will hear here are: pop/rock, easy listening, adult contemporary, and praise and worship. You will also find two of Carman's signature story telling type songs, one of which is the stellar 'Lazarus Come Forth'. This album makes it clear that God wants us to accept His salvation willingly and to experience the joy that brings. He wants us to be filled with His Holy Spirit and to come to Him with any needs we have. We are to praise Jesus, the Son of God, rebuke the devil in Christ's Name, and live victorious Christian lives. I'm rating this album a perfect 100%. For more info visit: www.carman.org.
Sara Lee Colbaugh was born on September 10, 1972. Today we know her as Sara Groves. According to Wikipedia.org: "Groves received her Bachelor of Science degree in history and English in 1994 from Evangel University, a private Christian university in Springfield, Missouri. Groves spent four years teaching high school in Rosemount, Minnesota before recording her first album, PAST THE WISHING, in 1998." Her second album was 2001's CONVERSATIONS. This was followed by her third album, ALL RIGHT HERE (2002, Sponge Records), which I'll be reviewing here. It was produced by Nate Sabin. In the liner notes Sara writes: "Thank You Lord for the opportunity to feel all these things, communicate them and watch all of this grow under Your care".
1. First up is 'Less Like Scars', one of three songs co-written by Sara and Nate Sabin. Jefferey Roach plays piano and organ on this adult pop song about God's goodness: "And I feel You here/And You're picking up the pieces/Forever faithful/It seemed out of my hands, a bad situation/But You are able/And in Your hands the pain and hurt/Look less like scars and more like character".
2. Lori Sabin and Ashleigh Friend provide backing vocals on 'Every Minute', an easy listening ballad about companionship: "And I can't figure out why you want me around/I'm not the smartest person I have ever met/But somehow that doesn't matter/No, it really never mattered to you at all/And at the risk of wearing out my welcome/At the risk of self-discovery/I'll take every moment/And every minute that you give me".
3. 'Fly' is an easy listening ballad as well. It is dedicated to Sara's husband Troy. John Catchings is responsible for strings. Here are some of the lyrics: "Speak in a summer tone, pause in the afterglow/Tenderly whisper my name/Tell me once again why I am your bride/So I can fly (2X)/Pause in your busy day, look extra long my way/Wink at me across the room/Kiss me longer/Touch my arm when I am by your side/So I can fly" (2X).
4. Jonell Moser and Pierce Pettis co-wrote 'You Did That For Me', a slow country song that references Calvary: "Man of sorrows, well acquainted with grief/Drug down to the city dump/Spread eagle on a cross beam/Propped up like a scarecrow/Nailed like a thief/There for all the world to see". Phil Madeira plays national slide guitar.
5. 'Just One More Thing' is one of eight songs Sara wrote alone on this project. Dave Jensen plays trumpet on this groovy pop commentary on our always busy society: "There's always just one more thing/There's always another task/There's always I just have one more small favor to ask/And everything is urgent and everything is now/I wonder what would really happen if I stopped somehow".
6. Next up is the title track 'All Right Here'. It's a pleasant country/pop number. In the chorus, Sara comments on herself: "And I'm not God, I'm a girl/I confess that I don't have a sea of forgetfulness/No, it's all right here/It makes me stronger, it makes me wince/Makes me think twice when I pick my friends/Oh, it's all right here, it's all right here".
7. 'Remember Surrender' feature Nate and Lori Sabin on backing vocals. It's a beautiful song with a beautiful message: "Remember surrender/Remember the rest/Remember that weight lifting off of your chest/And realizing that it's not up to you and it never was/Remember surrender/Remember relief/Remember how tears rolled down both of your cheeks/As the warmth of a heavenly Father came closing in".
8. Marc Anderson plays bouzouki and Nate Sabin the flute on the over five minute long 'Maybe There's A Loving God'. It's sung from the perspective of a seeker: "I'm trying to work things out/I'm trying to comprehend/Am I the chance result/Of some great accident?/I hear a rhythm call me/The echo of a grand design/I spend each night in the backyard/Staring up at the stars in the sky.../Maybe this was made for me/For lying on my back in the middle of a field/Maybe that's a selfish thought/Or maybe there's a loving God".
9. Matt Pierson plays upright bass on the 'This Peace', a calming song: "No time to grab the camera, no time to write it down/Just time enough to breathe it in/And linger/It's a whisper in my ear/It's a shiver up my spine/It's the gratitude I feel for all that's right/It's a mystery appeal that's been granted me tonight/This peace (2X)".
10. On 'Tornado' Phil Madeira plays the National Reso-Phonic Baritone Guitar and Peter Ostroushko plays the fiddle. This is a folk song of determination: "And every time I find healing, you're making a new mess/And I am learning the real meaning of forgiveness/And it hurts when you hit at the hearts of the ones I love/When everything you touch is rubble and dust/And it gets so hard to know how to trust/But I will not let that bitter root grow/I will not let it, no, no/But, it gets so hard (oh)".
11. 'First Song that I Sing' was inspired by C.S. Lewis' 'Mere Christianity'. This uplifting adult contemporary tune includes claps by Nate Sabin and Sara, and these words: "I want to praise You/I need to praise You/Let the first song that I sing/Be praises to my God and King/Before the curtains part/Before my day is starting/Before I make up the bed/Before the snooze alarm reminds me that it's morning".
12. Sara dedicates 'You Cannot Lose My Love' which runs just over 2.5 minutes to her son Kirby: "You will lose your confidence/In times of trial, your common sense/You may lose your innocence/But you cannot lose my love". Sara plays piano here.
13. Last up is 'Jesus, You're Beautiful' penned by Nate Sabin. It's a light praise and worship song: "Sweeter than spring time/Purer than sunshine/Ever my song will be/Jesus, You're beautiful to me/Oh Lord, You are so beautiful".
ALL RIGHT HERE is a lengthy album at 57 minutes and 3 seconds. Sara's vocals are smooth and gentle to listen to. There are eight slow songs and five faster ones presented. Easy listening and pop are the main genres here, with adult contemporary, country, and folk also being utilized. An appreciation and love for family and friends is forefront on this project. Also, we learn that God wants to heal us. He will help us grow and give us His peace if we only surrender to Him. We are also reminded to slow down sometimes as society is always in a rush. In addition there are two praise and worship tunes. I'm rating this album 87.5%. For more info visit: www.saragroves.com.
Mandisa Lynn Hundley was born on October 2, 1976 in Citrus Heights, California. On the fifth season of the reality tv show 'American Idol', she finished ninth. She released her first full-length album TRUE BEAUTY in 2007. It debuted at #1 on the Top Christian Albums chart and featured the hit single 'Only the World'. Fast forward to 2011 and she released her fourth full length album, WHAT IF WE WERE REAL (Sparrow). It was produced by Christopher Stevens, David Garcia, Dan Muckala, and Chance Scoggins. The album peaked at #2 on the Billboard Christian Albums chart. In the liner notes, Mandisa writes: "Jesus, thank You for not leaving me as I was at the beginning of this album process; low on hope, dejected, a bit jaded, and feeling far from You. You allowed me to come to You just as I was...and it wasn't pretty."
Starting things off is the album's first single, 'Stronger', written by Christopher Stevens, David Garcia, and Ben Glover. It peaked at #1 on the Hot Christian Songs chart. It's an upbeat pop song of encouragement: "Oh, don't hang your head/It's gonna end/God's right there/Even if it's hard to see Him/I promise you that He still cares/When the waves are taking you under/Hold on just a little bit longer/He knows that this is gonna make you stronger, stronger/The pain ain't gonna last forever/And things can only get better/Believe me/This is gonna make you stronger". The title track, 'What If We Were Real' was penned by Cindy Morgan, Mandisa, and Ben Glover. Blanca Callahan is a backing vocalist on it. It's an energetic pop/rock song encouraging transparency: "I'm over hiding my tears/I think I'm gonna let 'em go/I'm over acting so strong when I ain't even in control.../We keep trying to make it look so nice/And we keep hiding what's going on inside/But what if I share my brokenness?/What if you share how you feel?/What if we weren't afraid of this crazy mess?/What if we were real?"
'These Days' is a catchy pop tune that takes a positive approach to life: "I can see a silver lining/When the sun's not shining/Even when You choose to bring the rain/Oh, but there's freedom believing and trusting Your leading/'Cause You're Lord of all my joy/And all my pain". 'The Truth About Me' is an adult contemporary ballad that contrasts how God sees us with how we see ourselves: "You say lovely, I say broken/I say guilty, You say forgiven/I feel lonely/You say You're with me/We both know it would change everything/If only I believed the truth about me".
'Say Goodbye' points to God as the one who can give us a new and fresh start in life: "There is grace that you can't imagine/There is love that you can't outrun/There is peace you can hold on to/When your world is coming undone/You don't have to give in to the fear/Don't have to let your story stop here/And when that hand tries to pull you back/You don't have to go back (2X).../Jesus came to take it all away". 'Good Morning' is the album's third single and features TobyMac on a nice rap bit. This is a contagious pop/dance track that should get you up and out of bed in the morning, and moving: "It's a good morning/Wake up to a brand new day/This morning/I'm stepping/Stepping on my way/Good morning/You give me strength/You give me just what I need/And I can feel the hope that's rising in me/It's a good morning".
'Waiting for Tomorrow' is the album's second single. It was penned by Ben Glover and Jeff Pardo and peaked at #9 on the Hot Christian Adult Contemporary chart. It begins with words believers in Christ will relate to: "Maybe tomorrow I'll start over/Maybe tomorrow I will finally change my ways/Said the same thing yesterday/Don't know why I'm so afraid/To let You in, to let You win/To let You have all of me". 'Just Cry' is the album's longest track (4:35). It was written by Mandisa, Tony Wood, and Ronnie Freeman. It's a sentimental ballad that builds in intensity: "You don't need to run/You don't need to speak/Baby, take some time/Let those prayers roll down your cheek/It may be tomorrow, you'll be past the sorrow/But tonight, it's alright/Just cry".
'Temporary Fills' is the album's shortest song (2:44). It's a good rock track about a gal who knows what she wants: "They say you gotta buy this, wear this, drive that car/'Cause that's the kind of thing that makes you who you are.../No more temporary fills/I want a love that's real/Take everything I have and fill me up inside/I'm done looking for the quick fix/Jesus, Your love is all I ever need/No more temporary fills". 'Free' features Missi Hale and Mandisa on backing vocals. It's an upbeat R&B number of personal testimony: "Who the Son sets free/Best believe is free indeed/Gonna take it to the streets/My Lord delivered me/Who the Son sets free/Best believe is free indeed/Gonna dance and shout and scream/I'm free indeed". Last up is the melodic, modern praise and worship song 'Lifeline': "You are my lifeline/You are my rescue/Strength in my weakness/Light in my darkness/You are my safety/Lifter of my head/The air that I need when I can't seem to breathe in/You are my lifeline (2X)".
WHAT IF WE WERE REAL is mainly an album of faster paced Christian pop songs. Other musical genres included are adult contemporary, R&B, and rock. There are a couple of slower tracks, but they are the exception. Learning how to see ourselves as God sees us is a prominent theme. He sees us as His beloved children and wants to give us a fresh start in life. If we will accept Jesus as Savior and Lord, He will make us into new creations. We can have a positive outlook on life. God is always with us, even in the tough times, making us stronger. Mandisa encourages us to be real with God and with each other and to take off the masks we wear so to speak. I'm rating this album a 95% and recommending it to fans of the powerhouse vocals and pop sounds of Natalie Grant. For more info visit: www.mandisaofficial.com or connect with her on Facebook.
Gregory Alan Long was born on Dec 12, 1966 in Aberdeen, South Dakota. He began singing at his Dad's revivals when he was just 2 according to Wikipedia.org. Greg's first two solo albums were CROSS MY HEART (1994) and DAYS OF GRACE (1996). His #1 hits include 'How Long?', a duet with Margaret Becker, and 'Love the Lord'. Greg's third of five solo albums was JESUS SAVES (1998, Myrrh). It's what I'll be reviewing here. In the liner notes, Greg writes: "I hope these songs will draw you closer to Jesus".
Starting things off is 'We Love You Jesus', written by Greg and John Elefante. Background vocalists are: John Elefante, Greg, Jim and Kim Thomas, Jeni Varnadeau, and Sara Paulson. This adult contemporary praise and worship song is almost five minutes long and includes these words: "We love You, Jesus with all our hearts/Our Lord and Savior/You've been so good to us/We love You, Jesus/You are the light in the dark/We'll follow You anywhere/We love You, Jesus". 'First Greatest Wonder' is an adult contemporary ballad of gratitude for God's mercy and love: "It took a heart that was torn from within/Healed the scars and made me feel like a child once again/It saw the hurt, felt the pain, knew the cost/Took the blame just to say/The debt was paid and I was free/So it sure seems like to me/That mercy has to be/The first greatest wonder of the world".
Don Koch, Joe Beck, and Bryan White wrote 'Jesus Saves'. Phil Madeira plays B-3 and a choir called Greg O'Quin 'n Joyful Noyze appears on this fast paced pop/dance track that witnesses: "Jesus saves, I know that Jesus saves, oh/Jesus saves, I know that Jesus saves/There's nothing more that I can say/It's just enough that Jesus saves/He came for the lost and the hurting/Oh and He died for the broken souls/And He lives for the ones who are searching/We've gotta let 'em know". On 'Mercy Said No' Dennis Dearing plays a guitar solo and strings are arranged and conducted by Carl Marsh. It's a lovely adult contemporary ballad of testimony: "Mercy said no/I'm not gonna let you go/I'm not gonna let you slip away/You don't have to be afraid/Mercy said no/Sin will never take control/Life and death stood face to face/Darkness tried to steal my heart away/Thank You, Jesus/Mercy said no/And now when heaven looks at me/It's through the blood of Jesus".
Two of the backing vocalists on 'Man of Sorrows' are Billy Gaines and Nicole Coleman Mullen. It's a soulful song about what Jesus endured to provide us with salvation: "Isaiah's word was true/They stripped You naked/As the day that you were born/And then they laughed at You/And spit into Your face/Your body bleeding/From the whippings and the beatings/As they led You to that crucifying place/You were the man, man of sorrows". 'Everything is Gonna Be All Right' finds Greg fully relying on God even in the dark times: "The Lord is kind/I know He's gonna see me through/Everything is gonna be all right/I'm holding onto the mercy and truth of His plan/I'll weather this storm/Safe in the warmth of my Father's hand/But through the healing stages/I will stand courageous/Though the hurting rages in me".
'Prove that by Me' was penned by Jack Wesley Routh and Randy Sharp and features backing vocals by Russ Taff and Chris Harris. It's an easy listening song that finds God speaking to us: "If the stars lead you astray/And the winds don't hear your plea/I still believe you'll find your way/Back to Me". Greg, Joel Lindsey, and David Browning wrote 'Life', an upbeat pop song of testimony: "Everyday is amazing now/When I think of how He turned my life around/Yeah, I can face what the day will bring/Knowing God is holding everything in His hands/I'm a man who knows the meaning of forgiveness".
'More Like Jesus' is a terrific inspirational ballad that reveals Greg's heart: "I just wanna be more like Jesus/A little more of Him today/A little less of me/I just wanna be more like Jesus/To love the way that He loved me/So unselfishly/Oh, I just wanna be more like Jesus". Last up is 'I Saw An Angel Tonight', written by Chris Harris, Phil Madeira, and Jim Daneker. It's almost five and a half minutes and finds Eric Silver on violin and Susan Demur on backing vocals. It's a peaceful song that seems addressed to one's parent (s): "You prayed for me every night when I was only a child/I can't imagine growing up without your love/Now I believe in the truth 'cause I saw Jesus in you/And I'm so thankful/For the way you brought me up".
JESUS SAVES clocks in at 45 minutes and 21 seconds. Genre-wise this is a mostly adult contemporary and pop album, but there is one rock song and there are a couple easy listening numbers. There are six slow songs and four faster ones. A love for and gratitude towards God come through loud and clear. God is good, loving, merciful, helps us through life's storms, and provides us with salvation through the cross. In return Greg sings of his love for God and his desire to be more Christ-like. There's also a great song about how parents can nurture, pray for and with, and influence their children to grow up and choose Christ as their own Lord and Saviour. I'm recommending this album to fans of Clay Crosse and rating it 96%. For more info visit: www.greglong.com and/or connect with him on Facebook.
Country and Western singer Dolly Rebecca Parton was born on January 19, 1946 in Sevier County, Tennessee. She released her debut solo album, HELLO, I'M DOLLY, in 1967. Her best known songs include: 'Coat of Many Colors', 'Jolene', 'I Will Always Love You', and '9 To 5'. In 2010 Sony Music released THE GOSPEL COLLECTION. Several of the songs on it are noted to have been recorded prior to 1972.
Starting things off is 'God's Colouring Book'. Dolly wrote it, originally recorded it in 1971, and it was released in 2007. It's a pretty folk song that nature lovers will appreciate: "A yellow dandelion, pretty evergreen/And some red and orange flowers growing wild along the stream/As I looked around me/The more that I did look/The more I realized that I was viewing God's colouring book". 'Sacred Memories' is a sentimental, upbeat country and western song: "Sacred memories often take me to the place where I grew up/And that little country church that I love so much/I used to go there every time that old church bell would ring/And I remember how I loved the songs we used to sing".
A rockabilly version of 'Comin' For to Carry Me Home' follows. It anticipates our eternal heavenly home as Christians: "I looked over Jordan and what did I see/Coming for to carry me home?/I saw a whole band of angels coming after me/Coming for to carry me home/Swing low, sweet chariot/Coming for to carry me home". A traditional version of the classic hymn 'How Great Thou Art' is up next. It begins with church bells and includes great backing vocals. Heaven is again anticipated: "When Christ shall come with shouts of acclamation/To take me home, what joy shall fill my heart/Then I shall kneel in humble adoration and then proclaim/'My God, how great Thou art!'"
'Golden Streets of Glory' is one of seven tracks solely penned by Dolly on this compilation project. This cheery old country song looks forward to the afterlife: "And when I've reached my journey's end/And if I'm worthy to go in/Golden streets of glory, I'll walk on/And the golden streets of my new home/Will lead me up to the Master's throne/With the angel band I'll sing/'Glory to His Name/Oh, holy, holy!'" 'I Believe' is a powerful, inspirational anthem of faith: "I believe above the storm the smallest prayer will still be heard/I believe that Someone in the great somewhere hears every word/Every time I hear a newborn baby cry/Or touch a leaf or see the sky/Then I know why I believe".
Dolly co-wrote 'Preacher Tom' with Porter Wagoner. It's a toe-tapping country and western tribute to an old-school country preacher: "Your smile is like the sunshine bringing warmth and joy to others/And love controls your understanding heart/And the message that you spread is just like water to the thirsty/A beacon that keeps shining through the dark/So Preacher Tom, come on preach/Let the One of which you speak have His way/Let His precious will be done". 'The Seeker' has a cool vibe sound-wise. The lyrics are prayerful: "I am a seeker, a poor sinful creature/There is no weaker than I am/ I am a seeker and You are a teacher/You are a reacher, so reach down/Reach out and lead me/Guide me and keep me in the shelter of Your care each day".
Dolly and Dorothy Jo Hope wrote a newer song called 'Would You Know Him (If You Saw Him)'. It's a great country ballad: "He might be a little orphan, he might be a crippled man/Oh, would you know Him if you saw Him?/Would you offer Him your hand?/God is all around us/He's never far away". The country and western classic 'Wings of A Dove' was penned by Bob Ferguson and Ferlin Husky. It has a simple, but wonderful chorus: "On the wings of a snow-white dove/He sends His pure, sweet love/A sign from above/On the wings of a dove".
'The Master's Hand' is a pleasant country song about God's goodness and faithfulness: "The Master's hand is always held out to us/And it will lead us to the promised land/And the evil of this world cannot outdo us/If we are holdin' to the Master's hand (2X)". 'Everything is Beautiful (In Its Own Way)' is a ballad nature lovers will again appreciate: "When I see a fountain flow from a mountain/Or see April showers bring flowers to May/I can't help but ponder /Life is such a wonder/And everything's beautiful in its own way.../What my eyes can't behold/Can't be bought or sold/And everything's beautiful in its own way".
A fast-paced duet with Porter Wagoner, 'Daddy Was An Old Time Preacher Man', follows. Here's verses one and two: "Daddy was an old time preacher man/He preached the Word of God throughout the land/He preached so plain a child could understand/Yes, Daddy was an old time preacher man/He told the people of the need to pray/He talked about God's wrath and judgment day/He preached about that great eternity/He preached hell so hot that you could feel the heat". 'There' includes kids on backing vocals as well as adults. It's a great inspirational song: "A city of riches beyond comprehension/Take me there/Won't you take me there?/Streets are of gold, gates of pearl, brilliant mansions/Take me there/Won't you take me there?"
Tommy Tomlinson wrote 'Heaven's Just a Prayer Away', a gospel music infused song about having a relationship with Christ: "And if you go/If you go to a church on Sunday/You get down on your knees and pray/And give your heart and your soul to Jesus/Heaven's just a prayer away". 'Letter to Heaven' is a bittersweet folk ballad about a little girl hit and killed by a vehicle, reuniting her in Heaven with her Mother who'd gone before her.
'Lord Hold My Hand' is a pretty ballad that serves as a prayer: "Hold my hand, let's not lose my way/Hold my hand and lead me home/Guide each step that I might take/Hold my hand and keep me strong/And let the path I walk be straight/Let the deeds I do be kind". Last up is 'Yes I See God', written by Dorothy Jo Hope. It's a song of testimony: "Yes, I see God where the mountains reach the sky/And I see God when the eagle starts to fly/I see God in a little baby's smile/I see God and He makes my life worthwhile".
On THE GOSPEL COLLECTION, the songs are mostly old country and western in nature, with some folk and gospel influences. Dolly's voice is strong and distinct. Some may find it a bit too shrill, but overall I didn't. There are nine fast songs and nine slow songs presented here. Heaven is most certainly a main theme (being a place where peace, joy, and love never cease). Appreciating God's handiwork in creation is another recurring theme. We are also encouraged to give our hearts and souls fully to Jesus. I'm rating this project 98%. For more info visit: www.dollyparton.com or look her up on Facebook.
