Jars of Clay traces their origins to Greenville College in Illinois. In 1995 they released their stellar self-titled debut, which featured such songs as 'Flood' (which broke into the mainstream), and 'Love Song for a Savior'. Fast forward to 2010 and the band released their tenth full-length studio album, JARS OF CLAY PRESENTS THE SHELTER (Gray Matters/Essential). It was nominated for two Dove Awards: 'Pop/Contemporary Album of the Year' and 'Praise and Worship Album of the Year'. In the liner notes you will find these words: "This album is inspired by old Irish words, 'In the shelter of each other, the people live'. These songs are meant to celebrate and inspire small communities of people to care for one another and embody the love, peace, and hope promised by God and found in the life of Jesus". All of the eleven songs but one, feature guest vocalists.
Starting things off is 'Small Rebellions' (ft. Brandon Heath), a great adult contemporary number about caring for others: "God of the worn and tattered/All of Your people matter/Give us more than words to speak/Cause we are hearts and arms that reach/And love climbs up and down the human ladder". 'Call My Name' (ft. Thad Cockrell and Audrey Assad) is a melodic light adult pop song of spiritual surrender: "I'll go when You call me/I run when You tell me where to go/We are desert walkers under shady clouds/Your fire shows there's more of You to know/Let our idols fall, vanity subside/And we will see the beauty in our lives". Brother Henry plays strings on 'We Will Follow' which features Gungor. This Christian pop song includes these prayerful words: "So set us free/To love the mystery/Until our eyes are clear enough to see You/Where You lead us we will follow (2X)/Where You lead us we will follow You/Open up our hearts and reach inside".
'Eyes Wide Open' features Mac Powell, Derek Webb, and Burlap to Cashmere. It's a rootsy pop song asking for more faith: "So God bruise the heels we've dug in the ground/That we might move closer to love/Pull out the roots we've dug in so deep/Finish what You've started/Help us to believe". Brandon Heath is featured on 'Shelter', the title track, while Toby Mac and Audrey Assad provide background vocals. This adult contemporary ballad is one of encouragement: "Cast off the robes you're wearing/Set aside the names that you've been given/May this place of rest in the fold of your journey/Bind you to hope, you will never walk alone/In the shelter of each other, we will live, we will live (2X)/Your arms are all around us".
The lead single from the album was 'Out of My Hands'. It features Mike Donehy and finds Leigh Nash on backing vocals. It's a soft adult contemporary song of gratitude to God: "And it's out of my hands, it was from the start/In light of what You've done for me (2X)/You lifted my head, set me apart/In light of what You've done for me/This is what You've done for me/It's out of my hands (2X)". 'No Greater Love' is the only track not to 'feature' a guest vocalist. It's a terrific pop/rock song about surrendering to Christ: "Is it still my turn?/I think I'm the last one left to learn/That the life I lose is the least of my concerns.../Show me the beauty of a life (3X)/Laid down".
'Run in the Night (Psalm 27)' features Thad Cockrell. It's an atmospheric number sonically and testifies: "All my failures won't condemn me/Or leave me paralyzed and bound/When I'm at my worst/Your Love, it finds me first". What follows is 'Lay it Down' featuring David Crowder and Dawn Michelle. It's a rocker that reminds us others are going through what we are: "Why carry on our own what's common to all men?/Why drag your bag of bones to hell and back again?.../Look around, lay it down".
Sara Groves and Matt Maher are featured on 'Love Will Find Us'. It includes these joyful lyrics: "These orphan hearts will find a home/Run to these arms, be not alone/Light is leading, love will find us all/Love will find us all". Last up is 'Benediction' featuring Amy Grant. It's a tender easy listening , commissioning song: "Go into the world showing how much He loves You/Walk in the world in merciful ways/He loves you (2X)/Emmanuel on earth/God with us on earth".
It's quite a treat to hear all the guest vocalists here sing alongside Jars of Clay lead singer Dan Haseltine. I'd love to hear Dan and Mac Powell (Third Day) do an entire record together. THE SHELTER is mostly adult contemporary and adult pop with some rock thrown in the mix. God's love for us and His desire to be involved in our personal lives are refreshing themes in a world where so many of us battle loneliness of varying degrees. Because God loves us, we should reach out to, love, and help our fellow man. We aren't meant to live life alone, but in community. I'm rating this one an 89.5%. For more info visit www.jarsofclay.com and/or connect with them on social media.
The band Call Box formed in Portland, Oregon as a campus worship band. They changed their name to Kutless in 2001. In 2002 they put out their self-titled record. 'Run' and 'Your Touch' from it hit #1 on ChristianRock.net. Fast forward to 2006 and the band released HEARTS OF THE INNOCENT (BEC), their fourth full length album. Group members were: Jon Micah Sumrall (lead vocals), James Mead (lead guitar, backing vocals), Ryan Shrout (rhythm guitar, backing vocals), Dave Leutkenhoelter (bass guitar), and Jeff Gilbert (drums, percussion). This album was produced by Aaron Sprinkle. It peaked at #45 on the Billboard 200 Albums chart, at #2 on the Billboard Top Christian Albums chart, and was nominated for two Dove Awards: 'Rock/Contemporary Album of the Year' and 'Recorded Music Packaging of the Year'.
First up is the title track, 'Hearts of the Innocent'. It's one of nine songs penned by Kutless and Aaron Sprinkle and one of four singles released from the album. This rocker reflects on the brokenness in the world and includes some great electric guitar work: "I'm looking down into the hopelessness/They're crying out to me/I see the pain/It's so much more than youth should know/It tears me apart/What can I do to change what I see?/This vicious cycle must come to an end". Kutless and Ethan Luck wrote 'Shut Me Out', a rock song of determination: "There's nothing you can say/That will take me away from this life/There's nothing you can do/To shut me up when I'm speaking the truth".
'Beyond the Surface' rocks and reflects on media: "I've been hiding, hiding for so long/Right behind my digital mask/I've been trying to be someone I'm not/All these perfectly fake people push us to insane ideals/They're nothing more than counterfeit images". 'Smile' is a sentimental ballad: "A spark is gleaming in my eye/Like diamond stars that fill the sky/I think a smile says it all/A smile says it all".
Next up is 'Promise of a Lifetime'. Jon Micah Sumrall plays piano, strings are arranged by Matt Slocum, and Aaron Sprinkle provides backing vocals. This lovely ballad speaks to God: "I know You're always there/To hear my every prayer inside/I'm clinging to the promise of a lifetime/I hear the words You say/To never walk away from me and leave behind/The promise of a lifetime". 'Winds of Change' describes how many feel today: "Can you feel the pains in life?/Wrapped around you like they're chains/Restricting all Your dreams?/Do you wonder if there is a way?/A way to set you free/Set you free?"
'Somewhere in the Sky' follows. It's an optimistic number: "I thank God for our freedom/There's nothing wrong with enjoying things in life/Spread the word that a smile's not beyond us/This is a call to act and seize your day". 'Mistakes' is a ballad that uses strings. It includes these sobering words: "I'm stuck with my affliction/An inner perfect storm/Why didn't someone warn me/To save me from myself?/The pain is self-inflicted/The decisions were my own/Now listen to history".
'Push Me Away' is a rock song that reminds us no man is an island: "Don't try to deceive me by pulling the wool over my eyes/There's nothing wrong with needing help sometimes/What are friendships for?/Now please/Don't push me away/Condemn your pride/Sometimes we all need a hand to get by". The ballad 'Changing World' is up next. I like these lyrics: "I'm embracing all of my fears/I am watching them turn to delight/The very fears which were gripping my mind/Are now the hands shaping and sculpting my dreams".
Things heat up again musically with 'Million Dollar Man', the only track written solely by Kutless. It speaks of the emptiness of materialism: "He's a million dollar man/He's got everything he wanted/But now what he wants is what he had/But he threw it all away/For a life filled with cars and rings/And everything that money can bring". Last up is 'Legacy', penned by Kutless, Aaron Sprinkle, and Ethan Luck. It's a heavy rocker of encouragement: "Nightmares of the past will fade away/The future of your name is what will stay/Never try to blame the past for everything you say/You have the power you need to change your legacy".
HEARTS OF THE INNOCENT is a great Christian rock album. It contains eight fast songs and four ballads. A main theme on the album is that there are many people all around us who are hurting and in various degrees and types of pain. A second theme provides the answer: We can find hope and contentment in a personal relationship with God. He hears and cares for us. We believers should take the time to help those who need it, even in our busy world. I'm rating this album 94% and recommending it to fans of Thousand Foot Krutch and Nickelback. For more info connect with the band at www.kutless.com or on Facebook. Collectors will want to pick up the Deluxe Edition of HEARTS OF THE INNOCENT. It includes four acoustic tracks of songs from the album, as well as seven great music videos of popular songs from the band's career.
Philip Tyler 'Phil' Keaggy was born on March 23, 1951 in Youngstown, Ohio. According to Wikipedia.org: "He is missing half of the middle finger on his right hand due to a childhood accident at age four involving a water pump". In 1968 he and two others formed the band Glass Harp. In 1970 as a result of injuries from a car crash, his mother died. Phil became a Christian with the help of his sister. His solo Christian debut was 1973's WHAT A DAY. Fast forward to 1995 and he released TRUE BELIEVER (Sparrow). It was produced, arranged, and programmed by Alan Shacklock.
First up is one of three songs penned by Alan Shacklock. The title track, 'The True Believers', is adult contemporary. Phil Madeira plays the Hammond B-3 Organ and tambourine is also used. These lyrics are jubilant: "The true believers stand on every word You say/The true believers made alive in Christ today/This is how we survive and where we mean to stay/The true believers (2X)/So, if you need to call on a friend/He's there for you right until the very end/His love is alive forever and amen". African bells, shaker, and flute sounds are used on 'Wild Heart', an adult contemporary ballad that begins with these optimistic words: "Somewhere in that empty stare, there is a look of love/Behind that suit of angry armor, there is a gentle dove/Between the lies and alibis, there's an honesty that's warm and bold/Under that cold shoulder, there's a heart of gold".
Wade Jaynes plays bass on 'Only You (Can Wash My Sins Away)'. It's a melodic adult contemporary ballad of testimony: "Let the thunder crash and the lightning strike/And the sky cave in today/Only You can wash my sins away/Let the thunder crash and the lightning strike/I'm down on my knees to pray/Only You can wash my sins away". Cheryl Becker contributes vocals to the rock song 'Salvation Army Band'. It also testifies: "Mercy made free to me/Eternal life, a gift that has no end/Receiving, believing in the mercy You extend/Cover me, You cover me/Clothed in Your own righteousness I stand/Your mercy has made me a part of Your salvation army band".
Phil wrote 'Don't Let Go of My Heart' with Jimmie Lee Sloas, Kip Raines, and Montey Powel. It's an easy listening, prayerful song: "Don't let go of my heart/Don't ever leave me here too long in isolation/Don't let go of my heart/I do believe You're here to offer consolation". 'Son of Man' is one of two selections penned solely by Phil. It's an adult pop song that lifts up Christ: "Son of Man and the beggar's friend/You will take me in and heal my bleeding heart/From the start/Even now and to the end/Son of God and the light You are/You have shined upon this dark and weary soul/And I am whole again".
Next up is the Keaggy/Sferra composition 'And On That Day'. Susan Ashton contributes vocals. The song begins by reflecting on Mary: "In a little corner of the world lived a maiden/Pure in heart, good in deed/Full of grace, gentle rose/An angelic salutation, holy word, annunciation/She's to be the chosen mother of Jesus, our Lord". It's wonderfully orchestrated-just lovely! 'Be Thou My Vision' is a well known traditional Irish hymn. Here it's performed with great energy! If finds Phil speaking to God from his heart: "Riches I need not, nor man's empty praise/Thou mine inheritance all of my days/Thou and Thou only though first in my heart/High King of heaven, my treasure Thou art".
'Have Mercy Lord' is a terrific rocker with a happy chorus: "You don't know how good it feels/When my heart breaks down and screams/Have mercy Lord!" (4X). Last up is 'The Survivor', which is about seven and a half minutes long. It's a soft, tender number to start, that commits oneself to God: "But as for me, I trust in Thee/Oh, Lord, my times are in Your hands/You are my God, deliver me/From the solution that they have planned". The latter part of the song amps up and is louder.
Phil Keaggy is a Christian music legend! TRUE BELIEVER spans four genres musically: adult contemporary, adult pop, rock, and easy listening. So, there's a bit of something for everyone! There are mid-tempo, fast, and slow songs. The importance of having a strong faith in God is made clear here. Jesus is presented as Savior. He is gracious, merciful, loving, and the Great Physician. This album will also encourage you to have an optimistic outlook on life and enjoy God's presence in your life. I'm rating TRUE BELIEVER 90%. For more info visit: www.philkeaggy.com. There are four great photos of Phil with a guitar included with this project.
The campus worship band Call Box formed in Portland, Oregon circa 1999. They changed their name to Kutless in 2001. The next year they released their first full-length album, which was self-titled. 'Run', from it, was a long running hit for the band. In 2003 they opened for Audio Adrenaline and MercyMe. 2004 saw them release their second record, SEA OF FACES (BEC Recordings). All of the eleven songs were written by Jon Micah Sumrall, Kyle Mitchell, James Mead, Ryan Shrout, and Aaron Sprinkle. Sprinkle also produced the album, with Brandon Ebel serving as executive producer. It reached #97 on the Billboard 200 and was nominated for a Dove Award for 'Rock Album of the Year'.
Starting things off is 'Not What You See', a hard rocker about humility: "How could I ever think to be more than the one who created me?/I watched Him do all that He said/His words were 'Be a servant to all'.../Only one deserves this exaltation/Only one deserves this elevation/But even He, He laid it down to serve on bended knee". 'All Alone' finds God speaking to His children: "If you would change your perspective/You'd see that it is true/Life is not always what you want/Sometimes it's hard to bear/I'd be with you and help you/In all that you go through/I love you/Let Me change your heart by coming in". 'Better For You' is a rock song offering these words of wisdom: "I know it seems too wrong to be right/This way is so much harder to fight/But in the end I know it is true/This way is better, it's better for you/Choose a little pain and gain a life with joy/Accepting pleasure now will earn a life of pain".
The beautiful adult contemporary title track, a ballad, 'Sea of Faces', follows. It's all about God's love for us: "I am not just a man vastly lost in this world/Lost in a sea of faces/Your body's the bread, Your blood is the wine/Because You traded Your life for mine". 'Let You In' is a chug-a-long rock song of one realizing their need for Christ: "This need is real, in my soul I feel/The love You shared/That's why I can't say no again/My thoughts are confused, for my sins You're abused/My heart it screams to open up and let You in". This is a heavier song than most Kutless fans will be used to and features Ryan Clark of Demon Hunter, as well as a rap break by Benjamin.
'Passion' is a slow rock song appropriate for Easter: "Nail-pierced hands, they run with blood/A splitting brow forced by the thorns/His face is writhing with the pain/Yet it's comforting to me". 'Perspectives' is a ballad that will get you thinking: "Why can't you see that freedom/Is sometimes simply another perspective away?/Who could you be if your lens was changed for a moment?/Would you still be the same?"
'Treason' reached #1 on ChristianRock.net! It admits human shortcomings, but points to God's goodness: "With my two lips I will praise Your Name/Then I turn around and only curse and blame/I give in, strength is thin, adding to my shame.../Your blood it covered all my sin/You changed a traitor into kin". The next song, 'All the Words', was used in an episode of the TV show 'Scrubs'. It's a modern worship ballad: "In Your presence I forever choose to live/I will praise You for it's all I have to give.../By Your grace You let me come and talk to You/It's not that I'm worthy/I thank You Jesus for the love that You have shown".
'Troubled Heart' is a rock track of spiritual encouragement: "Amidst the pain, you're not alone/Though you can't see through the haze/His eyes of love are staring down/And He feels your troubled heart". Closing things out is 'It's Like Me', which includes these very relatable words: "Sometimes I still never see/When perfect opportunities come my way/Would my care increase if I truly believed that a life could be saved?"
SEA OF FACES is a really good album of mostly slow rock songs, with three fast ones mixed in, and three adult contemporary selections. Jon Micah Sumrall's vocals are great and if you enjoy the music and vocals of Creed and Jeremy Camp, you'll dig this album! The cross as an expression of God's perfect, redeeming love for us is central here. These songs not only call others to come to Jesus, but implore us to give our lives fully to Him, so He can help us live the life He wants for us. The terrific worship ballad 'All the Words' will be a highlight for some. This Cd comes with one great group photo on the cover, and five clear pictures in the CD booklet (one of each group member at the time). I'm rating SEA OF FACES 96%. For more info visit www.kutless.com.
Jeremy Thomas Camp was born on January 12, 1978 in Lafayette, Indiana. He married his first wife Melissa in October 2000. Tragically she died of ovarian cancer the next year. Some of the songs on his major label debut, STAY (2002), such as 'I Still Believe' and 'Walk by Faith' were inspired by her. In December 2003, he married his second wife Adrienne Liesching, who fronted the band The Benjamin Gate. In 2004, Jeremy released CARRIED ME: THE WORSHIP PROJECT (BEC Recordings). In the liner notes, he writes: "Ever since I picked up the guitar when I was young, worship music was a big part of what I loved and was involved with. My father being a pastor and worship leader showed me at a young age, the blessing of leading people in worship and I was often given the opportunity to lead as well".
First up is 'Trust in You', an adult contemporary song about having faith: "When I can't see You, I know You're there/When I can't feel You, I will not fear/I will trust in You and I will not be afraid". It includes a nice electric guitar solo. Tim Hughes wrote 'Beautiful One', which includes these great lyrics: "Powerful, so powerful/Your glory fills the skies/Your mighty works displayed for all to see/The beauty of Your majesty/Awakes my heart to sing/How marvelous, how wonderful You are". Chris Tomlin and Louie Giglio wrote 'Enough', here presented as a rock ballad. It exalts Christ: "And all of You is more than enough for all of me/For every thirst and every need/You satisfy me with Your love/And all I have in You is more than enough".
Jeremy's wife Adrienne sings beautifully with him on the new to me 'Wonderful Maker'. Here is the chorus: "What a wonderful Maker/What a wonderful Savior/How majestic Your whispers/How humble Your love/With a strength like no other/And the heart of a Father/How majestic Your whispers/What a wonderful God". 'Hear My Voice' is one of four songs here solely penned by Jeremy. It's an adult contemporary ballad that includes these words of testimony: "You are the only One that brings me truth/You are the only One that makes me new/The grace You've given, a gift for all to see/This is why I give You everything, yeah".
'I Wait for the Lord' follows. It's a Christian rock song of spiritual determination: "I wait for the Lord, my soul waits/I wait for the Lord/Cause in His Word I place my trust/Cause in His Word I rest/In His Word I place my trust/For I know I must, wait". There's some terrific electric guitar work! John Mark Comer and Gene Way wrote 'Empty Me'. It's a ballad that begins with these prayerful words: "Holy fire burn away/My desire for anything/That is not of You and is of me/I want more of You/And less of me, yeah".
'I Surrender to You' is a song of spiritual dedication: "All that I am is for You, My Savior/I live by Your Word and surrender to You/Here where I stand in this moment, Father/My spirit has been renewed/I surrender to You". 'Walk By Faith' is a hit song from Jeremy's debut, STAY. It's an inspirational song: "Well, I will walk by faith/Even when I cannot see/Well, because this broken road/Prepares Your will for me".
Next up is 'Revive Me', an easy listening number that cries out to Jesus: "Revive me, according to Your loving kindness/Revive me, that I may seek Your Word/Revive me, according to Your loving kindness/Revive me, oh Lord". David Ruis wrote 'You're Worthy of My Praise'. Jeremy rocks up this classic which dates back to 1991. Here's the second verse: "I will bow down and I'll hail You as King/Cause I will serve You/I'll give You everything/I will lift up my eyes to Your throne/Well, I will trust You/Well, I will trust You alone, yeah".
'Longing Heart' is a ballad that includes these words of wonder: "I don't understand it/How you love the way You do/Even when I've fallen/You always lift me up to You". Last up is the title track, 'Carried Me', penned by Jeremy, Adam Watts, and Andy Dodd. It's on the quiet side, but testifies: "Jesus, You have carried me/It's all been part of your plan/Jesus, You have carried me/It's Your footprints in the sand/Jesus, You have carried me/It was always in Your hands, oh yeah".
CARRIED ME: THE WORSHIP PROJECT contains nine adult contemporary and four rock songs. Eight of the selections are on the slower side of things while five are faster. Jeremy sings of his gratitude to God for His love and the cross. It is evident that Jeremy trusts God and believes He will supply his every need. Seeking after God and submitting to Him are crucial. The album, which runs 50 minutes and 50 seconds, comes with six photos of Camp. I'm rating CARRIED AWAY: THE WORSHIP PROJECT 88% and recommending it to fans of Kutless. For more info visit: www.jeremycamp.com.
Lisa Bevill was born on June 24, 1968 in North Carolina. Her debut album was MY FREEDOM (1992), which was followed by 1994's ALL BECAUSE OF YOU. Next came her third record, LOVE OF HEAVEN (1996, Sparrow). Producers used were Don Koch, David Pack, and Jimmie Lee Sloas. Peter York served as executive producer. In the liner notes Lisa shares: "My Savior: Thank You for the valleys that taught me how to lean. And for breaking my spirit so that I could be filled with Yours. Please remind me that I can fully let go when I turn into a control freak".
First up is the title track, 'Love of Heaven', written by Charlie Black, Cliff Downs, Tabitha Fair, and Lisa Bevill. It's a passionate, prayerful song: "Rain down, sweet love of heaven/And stay with me forever/Rain down, sweet love of heaven/It's hard when tears begin to fall/To think You're not to blame/But now I see You've rescued me/And I know I'll never be the same". Lisa, Robert White Johnson, and Winston Sela wrote 'Turn and Love', which became a #1 Adult Contemporary hit for Lisa. These lyrics are relevant for our divisive times today: "So turn and love/Oh, turn it around, turn the hurt into loving/So turn and love/Love can change the heart, time is right for the healing".
Lisa Bevill, Lisa Cochran, Bonnie Keen, and Angelo and Veronica Petrucci provide backing vocals on 'Happiness'. It's a soulful pop song of gratitude: "You bring me so much happiness/You fill my world with all I'll ever need/When I'm with You/I remember I've been truly blessed/Oh, oh, happiness". 'Safe Inside' is a pretty adult contemporary ballad about life on the road away from family as a performance artist: "When the journey is long and I'm out here alone/There are voices I hear that take me back home/Across the miles they call to me/When I know in my heart I'm where I should be/I can rest in the promises He's given to me/Cause He knows how much I trust Him/And knows my heart like His own/And He knows what it's like to be so far from home".
Lisa Cochran, Michael Mellett, and Chris Rodriguez sing backing vocals on 'Consider His Love', a song of encouragement: "Consider His love and let it fill you up inside/Remember His arms are there to hold you/When you need a place to hide/Through the tears in your eyes/You will see His heart is true/And always there when you consider His love". Mark Douthit plays a nice sax solo. Up next is 'Changed', on which Nicol Smith is a background vocalist. This pop/dance track uses horns and testifies: "And with every new day that dawns/I can feel Your Spirit move in me/With Your love, I can carry on/With Your love Lord/I am finally free, yeah/Changed/There's a change". It's a highlight on this album!
Julie Adams, Greta Garner-Hewitt, and Scott Krippayne wrote 'Tender Reed', a soft ballad addressed to the hurting: "I know that it seems/You're feeling more grief before the last heartache could mend/But one thing is sure/God knows You'll endure/He won't let you break, only bend". 'Shining Through' is an adult pop song that delights in the Lord: "Right before my eyes, I see Your promises come true/It's such a sweet surprise/When Your love comes shining through/Sometimes life gets tough/So I give everything to you/It's then I feel Your touch/And Your love comes shining through".
Don Koch and David Moffitt wrote 'Only A Savior' on which Pat Coil plays piano and Carl Marsh is responsible for Fairlight Strings. This easy listening ballad speaks of God's immense love for us: "When only a Savior could hold my broken heart together/He was reaching far enough to take me in His arms/When only a Savior/Who loved me more than life could ever/Give me hope I never thought I'd find/Everything I needed was everything He gave/Cause only a Savior could save". Last up is 'If We're His', penned by Pete Carlson and Ty Lacy. It makes use of classical guitar and cellos and was a #1 Inspirational Song of the Year on CCM year end charts of 1997 for Lisa. It encourages us to help those who so desperately need it: "Someone needs a friend today/Someone needs an ear to hear their heart.../If we're His, truly His/Then His love will flow right through us/To the heart of every need/If we're His, truly His/We'll give of ourselves unselfishly/If we're His".
LOVE OF HEAVEN runs 43 minutes and 31 seconds. The majority of the songs are adult contemporary, with some of them leaning towards easy listening. However, a couple tracks are pop, and a couple pop/dance. Lisa's lead vocals and the background vocalists are a definite strength on this project. God's unconditional love for us is the main theme presented. We are encouraged to reach out to the lost and the hurting with God's love, mercy, healing, and forgiveness. He transforms lives and gives joy as a gift. The pictures of Lisa included with this CD are beautiful. Fans of Kathy Troccoli, Cheri Keaggy, and Cindy Morgan should add this to their collection. I'm rating LOVE OF HEAVEN 93%. For more info visit www.lisabevill.com or connect with her on Facebook.
The CCM band MercyMe was founded in Edmond, Oklahoma. Between 1995 and 2000 they put out six independent albums. Following that, in 2001, they put out their first major label record, ALMOST THERE (IN0). It contained the now famous smash hit 'I Can Only Imagine', which has been turned into a movie. SPOKEN FOR (2002, IN0) was MercyMe's second studio album. Group members were: Bart Millard, Jim Bryson, Robby Shaffer, Mike Scheuchzer, and Nathan Cochran. In one of the photos with the CD, one member is wearing a Petra shirt, which is cool to see! Peter Kipley produced SPOKEN FOR. It was nominated for a Dove Award for 'Pop/Contemporary Album of the Year'.
Starting things off is 'The Change Inside of Me', a great Christian pop song about life transformation: "Pardon me if I've been acting strange/I haven't been myself lately/What you see is a person rearranged/Someone affected me greatly/And I've got so much to say/Ever since Jesus looked my way/Gonna raise my voice like thunder/And leave the world in wonder of the change/The change inside of me". The band co-wrote 'All the Above' with Mark Stuart (Audio Adrenaline) and Peter Kipley. It's a pop song of spiritual encouragement: "Remember the day when God forgot your sin/Remember the way that joy came tumbling in/There will be times when you cannot find a reason to stand and sing/But let this remind you time after time/You're a child of the King". The title track, 'Spoken For', was a #1 adult contemporary hit! It's a ballad of gratitude: "By the power of the cross/You've taken what was lost/And made it fully Yours/And I have been redeemed/By You who spoke to me/Now I am spoken for".
'There's A Reason' is a praise and worship ballad: "All glory to the King of Kings, Lord of Lords/Oh, the value of Your worth/No worldly treasures can afford/And we praise You forevermore". 'Come One, Come All' is a Christian pop song of spiritual invitation: "Come one, come all/To the presence of our God/This is where all hope and peace and joy are found/Come taste and see/We've been summoned by the King/Enter in and place your feet on holy ground".
Bart Millard, Peter Kipley, Robby Hurd, and Chad Sipes wrote 'Crazy', an adult contemporary ballad that is Scripturally based: "I have not been called to the wisdom of this world/But to a God who's calling out to me/And even though the world may think/I'm losing touch with reality/It would be crazy to choose this world/Over eternity". Bart and Peter co-wrote 'Word of God Speak'. It was a #1 hit on multiple charts. It's an inspirational prayer: "Word of God speak/Would You pour down like rain/Washing my eyes to see Your majesty?/To be still and know that You're in this place/Please let me stay and rest/In Your holiness/Word of God speak".
'Your Glory Goes On' is an upbeat song that includes this uncreative chorus: "Your glory goes on and on and on and on/It's never gonna fade away/It keeps going on and on and on and on/Forever will Your glory reign". It is catchy I must confess. A fairly traditional cover of the classic hymn 'The Love of God' follows. It includes these great words: "O love of God, how rich and pure!/How measureless and strong!/It shall forevermore endure/The saints' and angels' song".
'Go' is a pop song about fulfilling the Great Commission: "For a dying world in need/For the hungry and the weak/For the sinner scared to speak/I will go/Go, I will go/To make You known/I will go". Last up is 'All Because of This' which only runs just over a minute and a half. It attempts to explain our faith in God: "How can we sing when there seems no reason to?/How do we smile when there's not much to smile about?.../It's all because of this (2X)/We've tasted love, tasted hope, tasted holiness".
SPOKEN FOR is a real joy to listen to! Bart Millard's lead vocals are easy on the ears. There are almost an equal number of fast paced pop songs and slower adult contemporary songs. This album will always be known for birthing 'Word of God Speak', a prayer to hear clearly from God. Several of the tracks celebrate the fact that we are Father God's children and that He loves us immensely. Some songs speak of how He changes our lives via salvation, mercy, and grace. It is also made clear that we should share God's love with non-believers and invite them to come into relationship with Him. I'm rating SPOKEN FOR 100%. For more info visit: www.mercyme.org or connect with the band on Facebook.
The Christian rock band Leeland formed in 2004 and its origins can be traced back to Baytown, Texas. Leeland's debut album was SOUND OF MELODIES (2006, Essential Records). Group members were: Leeland Mooring (lead vocals, guitar), Jack Mooring (vocals, keys), Jeremiah Wood (lead guitar), Jake Holtz (bass), and Mike Smith (drums). Producers used on this album were Matt Bronleewe, Steve Hindalong, and Mark Byrd. SOUND OF MELODIES was nominated for a Grammy Award for 'Best Pop/Contemporary Gospel Album' and Dove Awards for 'Praise and Worship Album of the Year' and 'Rock/Contemporary Album of the Year'. Leeland also got a Dove nom in 2007 for 'New Artist of the Year'.
Starting things off is the title track, 'Sound of Melodies', written by Leeland Dayton Mooring, Jack Anthony Mooring, and Steve Wilson. This modern worship song speaks of life transformation: "We who were called to be Your people/Struggling sinners and thieves/We're lifted up from the ashes/And out came the song of the redeemed/The song of the redeemed/Can You hear the sound of melodies/Oh, the sound of melodies/Rising up to You/Rising up to You, God?" 'Reaching' is a pop/rock song from the heart: "Here on this earth we lift our eyes to the stars/We seek all You are/We seek You/And it's for You/It's all for You/We're breaking off our chains to run to You/Would You fill our hearts, oh, fill our songs?" 'Yes You Have' was penned by Leeland and Jack Mooring and Matt Bronleewe. It was nominated for a Dove Award for 'Worship Song of the Year'. It offers these wonderful words of testimony: "With Your love You set me free/Three nails gave me liberty/So I'll sing Your praise/My God, I'll sing Your praise/Oh, with Your love You forgave my sin/Forgot my past/And brought me back again/So I'll sing Your praise/I'll sing Your praise, yeah".
Brothers Leeland and Jack Mooring wrote 'Tears of the Saints'. It runs over six minutes long and was nominated for a Dove Award for 'Song of the Year'. This adult contemporary song has a heart for prodigals: "There are tears from the saints for the lost and unsaved/We're crying for them come back home (2X)/And all Your children will stretch out their hands/And pick up the crippled man/Father, we will lead them home (2X)". 'Beautiful Lord' places full trust in God: "When the storm is raging all around me/You are the peace that calms my troubled sea/And when the cares of this world darken my day/You are the light that shines and shows me the way/Oh, the beauty of Your majesty/On the cross You showed Your love for me!"
Leeland Mooring and Steve Hindalong (The Choir, Lost Dogs) co-wrote 'Can't Stop', a great pop/rock track that celebrates God's love for us: "You've risen like the sun/Darkness fades with the dawn/I know You are the radiant one/And You give me light/Your love is in my heart tonight (2X)/I can't stop, I can't stop falling in love with You (2X)". 'Lift Your Eyes' is a bouncy pop song of spiritual invitation: "You can lift your eyes/Come to the cross/There is healing for all who come".
Next up is 'Hey', another bouncy pop number that uses hand claps and delights in the Lord: "And I said/'Hey, You're the one that I've been looking for/And I found You here'" (2X). Leeland Mooring, Steve Hindalong, Marc Byrd, and David Stukenberg wrote 'Too Much' which sonically sounds like Phil Keaggy. It has very relatable lyrics: "All these cliffs and all these heights/They've just been too high to climb/Too high, too high/All these waves and all these seas/Have all been crashing down on me/Too much, too much".
'How Wonderful' is a beautiful modern worship ballad: "How wonderful, how lovely is Your Name/You captivate our hearts/You save us by Your grace/And You are closer than a brother, Jesus.../Oh, the name of Jesus". Last up is 'Carried to the Table', on which Marc Byrd plays ambient guitar. All Christians should appreciate these words: "I was carried to the table/Seated where I don't belong/Carried to the table/Swept away by His love/And I don't see my brokenness anymore/When I'm seated at the table of the Lord/I'm carried to the table/The table of the Lord".
SOUND OF MELODIES is a flawless, excellent album! Hard to believe it was a debut album! It's a good mix of modern worship and pop/rock sounds. There is almost an even mix of fast and slower songs. The main theme is that God has redeemed us through the crosswork of Jesus Christ. God is merciful and loving towards us. He longs for prodigals and those who have never been in a personal relationship with Him to run into His loving, accepting arms. Our response to God's love and mercy, as demonstrated on this record, should be to praise and worship Him joyfully and gratefully. Fans of Sanctus Real, Downhere, and Kutless should add this album, which I'm rating 100%, to their collection. For more info visit www.leelandonline.com and/or connect with them on Facebook.
Lisa Bevill was born on June 24, 1968 in North Carolina. In 1992 she released her debut album MY FREEDOM (Vireo Records). It was produced by Mark Heimermann and Chris Harris. Brown Bannister served as executive producer. Songwriters on the album include Toby McKeehan, Wayne Kirkpatrick, and Carolyn Arends. In the liner notes, Lisa writes: "Eternal Thanks to God for breaking my will and blessing me with everything I've always dreamed of. By giving everything to You, I've found my freedom".
Starting things off is 'Chaperone', an upbeat pop/dance track featuring the rap stylings of who we now know as TobyMac. These lyrics call on God during a time of temptation: "Friday night, the party is groovin'/The pressure's up and morality's down/Way down/He told me if I didn't do it/I'd never hang with the popular crowd/Oh, You always hear me/Oh, I need You near me, Lord". 'It's Gonna Be Worth It' is also pop/dance and encourages abstinence: "He's promising this if you'll give him that/But keep your innocence/Cause you can't get it back, oh, no/Don't hurry love, don't settle for less/Hold out for the love of the one who knows best/Cause your Father knows what's best". George Cocchini provides some great electric guitar work.
'Falling Off the Face of the Earth' has a slow groove to it and is the song of one friend to another: "Don't let go/There's a big black hole below/I don't want to see you disappear/You've got to hold on, there's nothing to fear/So climb up to the top/I will lift you up, put you back on your feet/Out of the abyss/I'll greet you with a kiss, wrap my arms around you". 'Love Oughta Be' is a pretty adult contemporary ballad on which Lisa shares her definition of love: "Love oughta be forever/Yes, love oughta be/Deep as the night and true/Love oughta be a river/That flows to the sea/Yes, love oughta be/Like love is with you/Willing to forgive and willing to sacrifice/No greater love than this/To be willing to give your life".
Next up is the title track, 'My Freedom'. It's a strong pop ballad of personal testimony: "I was a self-made girl/But I was a slave to my world/With my liberating view/But I never knew/My freedom, my freedom/Giving everything to You is where I find/My freedom, my freedom/Now I have a heart that has a peace of mind". 'Place in the Sun' is a peppy pop/dance track of spiritual invitation: "You don't have to exist in the night anymore/Love is shining so bright/Outside of your door/Open your door, yeah/Come as you are, never far/From your heart/Love's warm embrace awaits/And you have a place in the sun". It was a #1 hit for Lisa!
'Second Chance' is an R&B ballad that offers relationship advice: "What he wants is a little freedom/What she wants, ooh, is a little romance/What they need is to talk it over/And let their love have a second chance". It would've been a nice fit on mainstream radio. 'Alone in Love' finds Lisa placing her trust in God: "The morning sun reminds me every day is new/Sweet love I have in You/And though I cannot see the shape of things to come/You know each way the river runs/I will follow the Keeper of my dreams/Through each tomorrow, we'll be together".
What follows is the pop/dance number, 'I Took A Tumble'. It warns against pride: "On top of the world I created for myself/My ego loved the exposure/Well, when you're king of the hill/There's no room for someone else/That's when your party is over/Eating crow's no tasty treat/Humble pie is never sweet/Time for me to take my seat/Somebody pulled the rug out from under my feet/Well, I took a tumble, flat on my face/It made me humble, put me back in my place". Last up is 'Shirley (Keep it to Yourself)'. It's a quirky song that speaks out against gossip: "Don't you know that idle talk is cheap/There are things you never should repeat, repeat/If it's confidential/Don't abuse your freedom of speech/Keep it to yourself".
The main musical genres on MY FREEDOM are pop/dance (with touches of R&B) and adult contemporary. There are five fast songs and five slower songs. Lisa's vocals are great! What I like the most about this record is that it deals with everyday life topical issues (premarital sex, pride, gossip, friendship). We need more of that in today's worship flooded CCM market. Lisa also sings of finding one's true identity in God and about what loving one another should look like. I'm rating MY FREEDOM 98%. For more info visit www.lisabevill.com and/or connect with her on Facebook. Fans of Natalie Grant and early era Cindy Morgan should like this album.
Cindy Lavonne Morgan was born on June 4, 1968. In 1992 she released her debut album, REAL LIFE. It garnered her six Dove Award nominations! Fast forward to 1998 and she released her fifth studio album, THE LOVING KIND (Word/Epic). It was produced by Brent Bourgeois and co-produced by Craig Hansen. This concept album is based on the last eight days of Jesus' life on earth. Cindy writes: "As I traced the footsteps of Jesus, I found a Man who reached out to the rejected, the needy, the harlot, and the murderer".
Starting things off is 'In the Garden', one of eight selections solely written by Cindy. This eclectic pop song uses clarinet, violin, and accordion. It's about Jesus: "From boy to a man/The carpenter's hands/Healed all the sick and diseased/Gave hope to the bleak, strength to the weak/And gave us a song to sing.../This is my body and this is my blood/Cover you like in the days of the flood/Come walk the road up to Gethsemane". Cindy and Brent Lenthall wrote 'The March'. It's one of two they co-wrote on this album. This lively pop song uses horns and invites us to join in Christ's suffering: "Oh, it was a march for the sweet and gruesome/To bring a light to their darkened place/It was a march for the thirst of freedom/And it was beauty battered and bleeding/And it was a march, yeah, yeah/When it all comes down to me and you, yeah/Will we walk away or march on with/The One who made the march, oh yeah?" The title track, 'The Loving Kind', follows. It's an easy listening song of gratitude that features The Nashville String Machine. Here's the chorus: "I don't know why You love me/Oh Lord, it's such a mystery/All I can say, all I can find/You're the loving kind, the loving kind/When I fall and when I stray/Your love it captures me always/All I can see, all I can find/You're the loving kind, the loving kind".
Wes King co-wrote 'The Last Supper' with Cindy. They sing the easy listening song together. It's appropriate for communion: "This is the body that was broken/Take and eat/This is the blood shed for many/Take and drink/Amen/And it will cover you/And make you new/Oh Jerusalem". Jerry McPherson and Matt Slocum play guitars on 'Devil Man'. It's a rock song about Jesus' betrayer, Judas: "Give me the money, give me the gold/Dirty little palms/And a heart that's cold, yeah.../Hanging from my neck/From a dirty piece of wood/I'm known as the betrayer/Buried in a field of blood, in a field of blood, hey".
Cindy plays piano on 'Can You Hear Me', a ballad that includes these powerful words: "The scars that You bear/Will one day make the whole world free/Satan is a liar down in the mire". Larry Tagg plays bass and Aaron Smith drums on 'The Only Way', a bouncy pop song which finds Christ speaking: "I am the Light, I am the Truth/I am the Voice/That will lead you/I am the Peace/I am the Love, I am the Way/I am the Way, I'm the only Way, oh".
Cindy co-wrote 'Hard Heart' with Brent Bourgeois. John Elefante is a backing vocalist. Cindy sings this one with passion! Included are these words of indictment: "Snake in the grass, crack in the glass/You beat down the head of the poor and hungry/Whatever you do to the least of these/You do it unto Me, unto Me". 'The Whipping' is a short number about the torture Jesus endured before being crucified: "Oh, they mocked Him and they beat Him/They pressed a crown of thorns upon His head/And He was bleeding/As He was pleading/For the lives of those who spit on Him".
Next up is 'Higher', an inspirational ballad that finds Jesus speaking to God the Father, on the cross: "Higher, higher than the pain that I feel/Take me higher, higher/Let Your holy love reveal/And plunge me deeper, deeper/Than these nails can drive me/Take me higher, higher Father". 'Take My Life' is a sincere prayer: "Take my life/Take away all the shattered dreams in me/Give me love that will last forever/Take my life/Give me the love that makes me free/Cause I believe that Your love can save even a wretch like me".
Cindy, Andrew Ramsey, and Michael W. Smith co-wrote 'Alive and Well'. Smith plays piano and two choirs are used to good effect on this Christian pop song. It includes these wonderful words about the resurrection: "I've touched the wounds in His side/And He dried the tears in my eyes/And He's alive". Last up is 'Praise the King', a lovely praise and worship song: "And praise Him for the blood that fell and bloomed a rose that day/And praise Him that He suffered through the guilt, the grief, the shame/Oh and praise Him that His tender love will still forgive today/Oh praise Him all ye people, praise the King!"
THE LOVING KIND is a good concept album focused on Jesus Christ. It runs 49 minutes and 18 seconds. Pop and adult contemporary really are the main musical genres here. There are almost an equal number of slow and fast songs. On this album you'll hear about the fall of man, the Last Supper, Judas' betrayal of Jesus, and the torture and agony Christ endured for us and our sins. God's love for us is made clear, as is Christ's victory over death, which gives us life everlasting if we make Christ our personal Lord and Saviour. Fans of Nichole Nordeman and Cheri Keaggy should enjoy this album which is full of emotion. I'm rating THE LOVING KIND 89%. For more info visit www.cindymorganmusic.com and connect with her on social media.
In 2010 Ontario, Canada's The Proverbs released their first holiday album CHRISTMAS: OUR FAVOURITE TIME OF THE YEAR. At the time, the group's roster was husband and wife Dave and Kathy Daw, and Dave's sister Karyl. Not so long ago, Karyl resigned from the group due to health concerns. Fast forward to 2018 and The Proverbs are back with HOME FOR CHRISTMAS with Dave and Kathy being joined on vocals by their daughter Natasha.
First up is the holiday classic 'I'll Be Home For Christmas' which Bing Crosby originally recorded back in 1943 with John Scott Trotter and his Orchestra. The Proverbs' version here is easy listening smooth jazz in nature. It includes these sentimental lyrics: "I'll be home for Christmas/You can count on me/Please have snow and mistletoe and presents under the tree/Christmas Eve will find me where the love light gleams/I'll be home for Christmas/If only in my dreams". Dianne Wilkinson's 'That Little Baby' follows. It's a toe-tapping Southern Gospel number that shares Good News: "That little baby, He was born of virgin/He was sent down to save us and to bear every burden/He was God in the flesh so let the hallelujahs ring/That little baby is the King!" You may know the next cut, 'My Gift is Me', from The Collingsworth Family. Natasha Daw, who has Down Syndrome, sings lead on this lovely ballad of spiritual dedication: "What I have to give to You/Cannot be bought or sold/It can't be wrapped up in a box/Or tied with strings of gold/It isn't perfect and You'll see it isn't even new/But Jesus, it's the only treasure I can give to You/Me, my gift is me/All I am and all I'll ever be".
'Somethin' to Shout About' is a cheery, fast paced country song that is evangelical: "Somethin' good to shout about/Christ has come to save the lost, from sin take us out/I have good, good news to bring/Salvation through the newborn King". Next up is Lee Mendelson and Vince Guaraldi's wonderful classic 'Christmas Time is Here', which was used in the 1965 tv special A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS. This easy listening song is highly optimistic: "Snowflakes in the air, carols everywhere/Olden times and ancient rhymes of love and dreams to share/Sleigh bells in the air/Beauty everywhere/Yuletide by the fireside/And joyful memories there". Dave Barton's flugelhorn playing is great on this one!
'Merry Christmas' finds Mandy, Jovi, and Cydni Daw on background vocals. It's a bouncy pop duet between Dave and Kathy. These lyrics are pensive: "December would be dark without the Light/And there would be no Christmas without Christ/It's more than just an old cliche/It's the day that Jesus came/Merry Christmas! Merry, merry Christmas!/To all the boys and girls/Merry Christmas!" 'Shout It Out' has sort of a haunting country sound and tells a story: "There is a town called Bethlehem, an unsuspecting little place/That's where the miracle began/Another world, another day/The story talks about a star/Guided three kings from afar".
'Look Who Just Checked In' is a terrific, celebratory Southern Gospel song: "Look who just checked in/Into the barn, into the world, into the hearts of the boys and girls/Never been a baby quite like Him/Look who just checked in!" Raymond Davis penned 'From Bethlehem to Calvary', an adult contemporary ballad addressed to skeptics: "You always look for a rhyme or a reason/You don't know if you believe in the season/It's just another holiday/Who is this babe that we give adoration?/He is the Savior/The Lord of salvation and He's still the same today".
'I Love Those Jingle Bells' is a short, fun song that can help your kids with their spelling if needed: "I love those J-I-N-G-L-E bells/Those holiday J-I-N-G-L-E bells/Those happy J-I-N-G-L-E B-E, double-L-S". Closing things out is Rachel McCutcheon's 'I Choose to Be a Christian', which I am familiar with from The Erwins, a US group. It's a strong, moving song of spiritual dedication: "As this world grows darker, my lamp will be burning/Kindled with love for the One who is worthy/He gave His all, so I will give mine/I'll put my life on the line/I choose to be a Christian/I will follow Christ/Carry the cross that leads to light/I will be true, stand for my convictions/Whatever others do, I choose to be a Christian". Natasha sings lead.
Without a doubt this is the livelier of the two Proverbs Christmas albums. Six of the eleven songs are fast paced, which is nice. Southern Gospel and easy listening are the main musical genres presented, but you will also hear pop and country sounds. This record celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ and praises and worships Him for bringing us salvation and freeing us from sin. There are a couple of songs about dedicating oneself to God and living for Him. Also, a couple songs are simply about enjoying the sights and sounds of the season. The harmonies, instrumentation, and album artwork and photos are all done well. This is one Christmas album you'll want to play each year. I'm rating HOME FOR CHRISTMAS 90%. For more info visit www.theproverbs.com or connect with them on Facebook. If they do a third holiday album I hope to hear 'Santa Baby' on it :)
Nichole Ellyse Nordeman was born on January 3, 1972 and raised in Colorado Springs, Colorado. She put out her debut album, WIDE EYED, in 1998. All four singles from it, including 'To Know You', became Top 40 hits on Christian adult contemporary radio, according to Wikipedia.org. Her second album was 2000's THIS MYSTERY. What I am reviewing here is her third album, WOVEN & SPUN, which came out on Sparrow Records in 2002. It was produced by Charlie Peacock and Mark Hammond and executive produced by Brad O'Donnell. Reflecting on the album, Nichole writes: "These songs beckoned to me. Ushered me in to a place of deep reflection...I pray that this music will beckon to you as well. To your knees before the Father. And into the arms of His Son...To behold alongside you, the most befuddling, jaw-dropping kind of Goodness ever".
First up is 'Holy', one of two co-writes between Nichole and Mark Hammond. This pop song praises God: "And all You ever wanted/Only me, on my knees/Singing 'Holy, holy'/Somehow all that matters now is/You are holy, holy/Holy, holy". 'Mercies New' is one of two co-writes between Nichole and Charlie Peacock. Scott Dente plays acoustic guitar, while Bebo Norman and Nirva Dorsayint provide backing vocals on the adult contemporary track. It celebrates God's goodness: "And Your mercies are new every morning/So let me wake with the dawn/When the music is through or so it seems to be/Then let me sing a new song, old things gone/Every day it's true/You make all Your mercies new".
'Healed' is one of six songs solely penned by Nichole. This adult contemporary song uses The Love Sponge String Orchestra and speaks of our need for God: "Passed over and passed by until You claim us/Orphaned and abandoned til You name us/Hidden and disclosed til You expose our hearts/By Your death we live/It is by Your gift that we might give/That we might give/And by Your wounds we are healed". Nichole plays piano and David Larring mandolin on 'Legacy'. It's an adult contemporary song that speaks of living for more than today: "In the end I'd like to hang my hat on more besides the temporary trappings of this world/I want to leave a legacy/How will they remember me?/Did I choose to love?/Did I point to You enough to make a mark on things?/I want to leave an offering/A child of mercy and grace/Who blessed Your Name unapologetically/And leave that kind of legacy".
Piano, violins, and cello are used on the easy listening number 'I Am'. It's addressed to God: "And when I am weak, unable to speak/Still I will call You by Name/Oh, Shepherd, Savior, Pasture Maker/Hold on to my hand/You say 'I Am'". Next up is a cover of Peter Gabriel's #1 hit 'In Your Eyes' from his 1986 album SO. This cover version finds Charlie Peacock on background vocals and piano. It's not as good as the original. It is a love song: "In your eyes/The light, the heat/In your eyes I am complete/I see the doorway to a thousand churches/In your eyes/The resolution of all the fruitless searches".
'Even Then' is about being honest with Christ: "So I put aside the masquerade and admit that I am not okay/Which may not be the thing to say/But I'm not ashamed to need You more each day/So, thank You Jesus/Even when You see us just as we are/Fragile and frail and so far/From who we want to be". Kenny Greenberg and Jerry McPherson play guitars, and Mark Hill plays bass on 'Never Loved You More'. It's a breezy, upbeat pop song with a fairly simple chorus: "I have never loved You more/Cause You have never loved me less/Than the day before or the day before/I have never loved You more".
'Take Me As I Am' is a song of spiritual surrender: "You're the only one that can take me as I am/At the end of myself/And the end of the day/I can find little else/But the courage to say/'I need You, that's all' (2X)". 'Doxology' runs under a minute, is acappella, and features these familiar words: "Praise God from whom all blessings flow/Praise Him all creatures here below/Praise Him above ye heavenly hosts/Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost".
Violins and cello are used on the adult contemporary ballad 'My Offering', on which Bebo Norman and Nirva Dorsayint sing backing vocals. It's a beautiful song of praise: "Open up the heavens, open up the skies/All of Your creation wants to testify/I have a song so let the earth sing along/Cause I just want to praise You". Last up is 'Gratitude', on which Gary Burnette plays electric guitar and Danny O'Lannerghty, the upright bass. It includes these prayerful words: "Daily bread, give us daily bread/Bless our bodies/Keep our children fed/Fill our cups, then fill them up again tonight/Wrap us up and warm us through/Tucked away beneath our sturdy roofs/Let us slumber safe from danger's view this time/Or maybe not, not today/Maybe You'll provide in other ways".
Nichole shares: "This record is dedicated to my best friend and husband, Errol. Very few people will every fully know and understand the level of sacrifice and love you have offered me over these last months". Whereas Nichole's previous album found her struggling and wrestling with doubts and questions about God and life, WOVEN & SPUN definitely finds her more at peace. She praises God for His holiness, mercy, healing, and faithfulness. She thanks God for loving us as we are and for being trustworthy. She expresses her love for God and her desire to leave a Christian legacy to those who follow after her. Light pop and adult contemporary sounds make up this record which is on the quiet and reflective side of things. I would have liked a couple more faster songs included that had more energy. Still, I'm rating WOVEN & SPUN 88%. For more info visit www.nicholenordeman.com or connect with her on social media.
Soulbreather describe themselves as "ambient indie folk rock for believers". Husband and wife duo Mark Gersmehl (WhiteHeart) and Brynn Gersmehl (Rachel Rachel) make up this duo. Mark goes by 'gersh' by the way. In 2012 they released their debut album SEVEN POINT EIGHT and in 2014 they released ALMOST INSTRUMENTAL. Fast forward to 2018 and they are back with COME ALONG, dedicated to their now deceased beagle, Hammy. Most of the songs here were written by Brynn and gersh during a week in the winter at a friend's cottage on Lake George. Brynn is responsible for acoustic guitar and vocals, while gersh is responsible for keyboards, drums and percussion, programming, and vocals. Mark Hill also adds his guitar talents, as does a former WhiteHeart member, which you'll see if you keep reading.
First up is the atmospheric pop ballad 'Come Along'. This title track is terrific and is a song of spiritual invitation: "I'm going to a land of peace/Come along with me/I'm going to find release/Come along with me/I'm going to a secret place/Come along with me/I'm going to seek His face/Come along with me". 'Over the Edge' is a moving adult contemporary number about placing oneself totally in God's hands: "Now the waters rise and fall/But there's a reason for it all/I am trusting You with my survival/And as I am letting go/I can feel the healing flow/You are leading me to my revival". 'God is Love' is a co-write between Gordon Kennedy and gersh. Kennedy plays electric guitar and sitar on this pleasant praise and worship number: "Gloria in excelsis deo/Sing with the angels and say so/Glory to God/He is love/Praise Him/His mercy is deep as the oceans/Towering steep as the mountains/Glory to God/He is love".
Next up is 'To Be With You', a reverent ballad desiring intimacy with God: "How far would I go to be with You/And feel the healing glow/To be with You/And let my spirit flow/Into the sea of You/I want to be with You (2X)/Oh, I want to be". 'On the Journey Home' is an easy listening, romantic love song: "Here, here we are again/The very best of friends/Seems as if no time has even passed/The room is warm with light/We could stay all night/Make each and every moment last/We're sharing together/A life that is better than we were hoping for". 'Wishing Well' is a call to come to Christ: "You don't want to be alone/But the love you've known has come and gone like the setting sun/But I, I want to let you know/Living Water's flowing/It doesn't matter all the things you've done.../If you come and drink it in/You will never thirst again".
'Go' is a quiet ballad that is prayerful: "I'll follow where Your light has shown/By myself but not alone/And I will let You lead this dance/Nothing will be left to chance/I want to go (4X)". This is followed by 'How the Light Comes Down', an easy listening ballad about heaven coming down to earth: "When the One True Light is on my face/Then everywhere I go's a sacred space/And the world is gonna be a better place/They'll see (2X)". Last up is 'Opening Wide', a song of testimony: "I can feel Your presence filling this place/Your splendor and Your majesty/And when I look upon Your beautiful face/You're changing me/Veil after veil is falling away/And what I couldn't see before/Is shining in the light of Your glorious day/And I want more".
COME ALONG is simply a spectacular album! Brynn's sweet vocals mesh well with gersh's hauntingly compelling vocals. The music presented on these nine songs is soothing, calming, and relaxing. The lyrics are devotional and meditative. It is clear that this husband/wife duo's relationship is anchored by Jesus Christ. In Him they find their meaning and their peace. The lyrics on this album make it clear they want others to give their lives over to God as well and find out who they truly are. I'm rating COME ALONG a perfect 100%. The album photography by Deby Dearman is beautiful. For more info visit www.soulbreather.com and/or connect with them on Facebook.
Natalie Diane Grant was born on December 21, 1971 in Seattle, Washington. Her self-titled debut album came out in 1999. She followed this up with 2001's STRONGER. Her third album was 2003's DEEPER LIFE (Curb), which I'll be reviewing here. It peaked at #25 on the US Billboard Christian Albums chart.
First up is the title track, 'Deeper Life', written by Christine Dente and Jim Cooper. It's a peppy pop/dance song that uses a choir and clappers. On it, Natalie sings of her true desires: "It's a Kingdom and it's hidden deep inside/I will be living for much more than meets the eye/Cause I need the deeper life/Where the love of God runs far and wide/I need the deeper life/I will give Him all my heart and mind/I won't be swept away by every changing tide/I believe in the deeper life". 'Days Like These' is a light pop song featuring The Nashville String Machine. It's a song of gratitude: "Days like these, so graceful that I'm falling/On my knees and thanking God/For all the little things that make me wanna say/'How I wish I had a million days like these'".
Bernie Herms and Lowell Alexander wrote 'Love Without Limits'. Michael Ripoll plays the nylon guitar and horns are used also on this catchy pop/dance song that praises God: "He loves without limits/Sees us every minute/Wherever we are walking, He is near/His Spirit is relentless/His hope for us is endless/I know, I know/He loves without limits". 'Within Me' is an adult contemporary ballad of testimony: "Within me/You wiped away all my tears/There's nothing to fear/Your love's within me/You give me the strength to believe/All that I am and that all I'll ever need/Is within me".
'I Will Be' is the first of five singles from the album. This cheerful adult contemporary song features The London Symphony Orchestra and these wonderful words: "One heart, one voice/Living out love in this world of noise/My dream and my joy/Giving You all, I have made a choice/Desperately I'm wanting to answer to Your calling/I will be a candle in the darkness/I will be the hand of heaven above/I will be a mirror that reflects Your endless love". Nichole co-wrote 'Always Be Your Baby' with Stephanie Lewis and George Teren. It's dedicated to her father, Arnold. It's a tender ballad: "Your faith, your love/And all that you believe/Have come to be the strongest part of me/And I will always be your baby".
Next up is 'That's When I'll Give Up (On Loving You)', an upbeat pop love song: "When the earth is finished spinning around/When it's raining up instead of down/When a dream can't come true/When the rivers all run out of blue/That's when I'll give up on loving you". 'Salvation' is one of two songs on the record solely penned by Natalie. This R&B song finds her sharing the Good News: "Come on and sit next to me/I'll tell you 'bout a Man who can set you free/Died when He was thirty-three/He gave His life on Calvary/It's undeniable/His page in history/So incredible/This human deity".
'I Desire' was written by Natalie, Bernie Herms, and Cindy Morgan. It's a praise and worship ballad: "The one thing I desire is just to know You more/To live a life that moves and breathes and loves to bring you joy/So fill me with a fire that burns away my doubts and all my fears/Into a place where You are all I hear/It's the one thing I desire/To do what You require is the one thing I desire". A choir and The Love Sponge Strings are used. 'Live For Today' was the last of the album's five singles. It's a pop song of one living with a purpose: "I'm gonna live for today/I'm gonna follow in Your way/I'm gonna let my little light shine like there's no tomorrow/I won't worry about the past/I know my future is intact/So I'll choose to live my life one way/I'm gonna live it for today".
Tim Davis, Michelle Swift, and Lisa Cochran provide backing vocals on 'I Am Not Alone'. This adult contemporary ballad speaks to God's faithfulness: "You walk beside me/Giving strength I've never known/And I am not alone/You walk beside me/I am not alone/Wherever the road leads". Last up is the Bonus Track, 'No Sign of It' (The Humberto Gatica Radio Mix), from the film 'View from the Top'. It includes these words of positivity: "No sign of any rain/My skies are clear today/I keep bracing for that hit/But there's no sign of it/No obstacles in sight/My skies are clear tonight/I keep thinking I might see that cloud arrive/Oh, but there's no sign of it/No sign of it".
In the liner notes Natalie writes: "First and foremost, thank You, Jesus, for loving me. You've entrusted me with so much. I pray You are pleased. This is all about You". The music on this album can largely be divided into two categories-pop/dance, and adult contemporary. There are an equal number of fast and slow songs. Natalie celebrates life and being alive, and God's love for us. She desires to have an intimate, vibrant relationship with Him. She wants to share God's love with the world. There's also a standout love song addressed to her Dad. I'm rating DEEPER LIFE 97% and recommending it to fans of Tammy Trent, Michael English, and Jaci Velasquez. There are several pretty pictures of Natalie included with this CD. For more info visit www.nataliegrant.com or connect with her on Facebook and Twitter.
Nichole Ellyse Nordeman was born on January 3, 1972. She was raised in Colorado Springs, Colorado. She released her debut studio album WIDE EYED in 1998. All four singles from it became Top 40 hits on Christian Adult Contemporary radio. Her second album, THIS MYSTERY, was released by Sparrow Records in 2000. It was produced and arranged by Mark Hammond and executive produced by Grant Cunningham. In the liner notes, Nichole writes: "'Walking On Water' by Madeleine L'Engle should be, in my opinion, required reading for anyone who has ever tried to navigate the murky waters where the worlds of faith and art still swim around together. Ms. L'Engle has given me a gentle nudge to remember and reclaim the innocence, naivete, and mystery of my faith long before it got lost in the land of adult reasoning".
Starting things off is one of eight songs Nichole penned alone, 'This Mystery', the title track. This bouncy pop song is addressed to God: "Do You wish, do You want us to breathe again?/Say goodbye to the lines that we've colored in brown and grey/From day to day, hey, yeah/Do You cry, do You hope for all things made new?/Try and try to invoke us to live in You/That we might be/The hands and feet of this mystery, oh". 'Tremble' is a funky adult contemporary ballad about Nichole's relationship with God: "Have I come too casually?/Because it seems to me/There's something I've neglected/How does one approach a Deity with informality/And still protect the Sacred.../Oh, let me not forget to tremble (2X)". 'Fool For You' is a beautiful song of spiritual dedication: "I would be a fool for You/All because You asked me to/A simpleton who's seemingly naive/I do believe You came and made Yourself a fool for me".
Next up is 'Help Me Believe', a quiet song that longs for a more innocent time: "Take me back to the time when I was maybe eight or nine/And I believed/When Jesus walked on waters blue/And if He helped me, I could too/If I believed/Before rationale, analysis, and systematic thinking/Robbed me of a sweet simplicity/When wonders and when mysteries/Were far less often silly dreams/And childhood fantasies". Fernando Ortega provides harmony vocals on 'Small Enough'. It's an easy listening number that includes these prayerful words: "Oh great God/Be small enough to hear me now/Oh great God/Be close enough to feel You now/There have been moments when I could not face Goliath on my own/And how could I forget we marched around our share of Jerichos.../Just wanna know that everything will be alright".
Nichole co-wrote the pop/R&B track 'Lookin' At You (Lookin' At Me)' with Mark Hammond and Jill Tomalty. It has very relatable lyrics: "I'm not tryin' to set an expectation/I'm not askin' for the moon/I just need a little confirmation, something true/Lookin' at you/I'm lookin' at you, lookin' at me/Lookin' for love that comes with a guarantee/What if I knew all that I need/Is held in a hand that'll always offer me this love". 'As' is a cover of a 1976 Stevie Wonder song. Geoff Thurman provides backing vocals on this upbeat pop/R&B song of romance: "As around the sun the earth knows she's revolving/And the rose buds know to bloom in early May/Just as hate knows love's the cure/You can rest your mind assure/That I'll be loving you always".
Nichole co-wrote 'Home' with Mark Hammond. It's a nice pop song of testimony: "And the mystery of Your love for me/Is not as hidden as it seemed to be/Should have known then when You said to me/'Seek and you will find'/It was right here all the time". 'Please Come' is a song of spiritual invitation: "There is room enough for all of us, please come/And the arms are open wide enough, please come/And our parts are never greater than the sum/This is the heart of the One/Who stands before an open door and bids us, 'Come'".
'Every Season' is an easy listening ballad about seeing God in nature: "And I notice You in children's games/In those who watch them from the shade/Every drop of sun is full of fun and wonder/You are summer.../And still I notice You when branches crack/And in my breath on frosted glass/Even now in death/You open doors for life to enter/You are winter". The Nashville String Machine is used to good effect. Last up is the Bonus Track, 'Why'. In 1998 it won Nordeman a songwriting competition sponsored by the Gospel Music Association (GMA) and led her to receive a recording contract. Here, on this live version, Roger Ryan plays piano and John Catchings plays cello. Much like Ray Boltz's 'Watch the Lamb', this is a moving ballad that sees Calvary through a child's eyes: "So I said, 'Daddy, why are they screaming?/Why are the faces of some of them beaming?/Why is He dressed in that bright purple robe?/I bet that crown hurts Him more than He shows/Daddy, please, can't you do something?/He looks as though He's gonna cry/You said He was stronger than all of those guys/Daddy, please tell me why/Why does everyone want Him to die?'".
On THIS MYSTERY Nichole Nordeman wrestles with her questions and doubts such as: Who is God? Where is He? What is her relationship with Him to be like? The lyrics are very thought provoking and some Christians might not appreciate her being so inquisitive, but I believe God can handle it. In the end, she finds God to be loving and true. Fans of the pop, adult contemporary, and easy listening sounds of Sara Groves, Sarah McLachlan, and Jann Arden should check this one out! Though there are a couple times where the album gets sleepy, I'm still rating it 92%. For more info visit www.nicholenordeman.com and connect with her on Facebook.
Paul Lester Overstreet was born on March 17, 1955 in Vancleave, Mississippi. He released his self-titled solo debut in 1982. His second solo album, SOWIN' LOVE, birthed five straight Top 10 hits on the country charts, including 'Love Helps Those', and 'Seein' My Father In Me'. Paul had a #1 hit with 'Daddy's Come Around' from 1991's HEROES. Fast forward to 1992 and Overstreet put out his fourth studio album LOVE IS STRONG (RCA Nashville). It peaked at #28 on the Billboard Christian Albums chart. The album was produced by Brown Bannister and Overstreet.
'Take Another Run' is upbeat country when it comes to the music. Paul Franklin plays steel guitar and pedabro, while Rob Hajacos plays fiddle. It's about persevering in relationships: "Sometimes the mountain looks so high when we're standing at the bottom/But once we've made it to the top we can't see the problem/Right now it hurts a little bit but we've never been the kind to quit/And I know we'll make it over, we'll be rolling in the clover/Let's take another run at it baby, take another run at our love". 'Still Out There Swinging' is the only song Paul wrote alone here. It's an old school country and western song that tells a story: "So she gave him enough rope to hang himself/Now he's still out there swinging/He's all over town/He can always be found anywhere there's a cowgirl singing/She said that she hoped he might change, but she don't think that thought has ever entered into his thinking/So she gave him enough rope to hang himself/Now he's still out there swinging".
'Me and My Baby' is one of two co-writes with Paul Davis. Strings are arranged by D. Bergen White and background vocalists include Kathie Baillie and Lisa Bevill. This light pop love song was a #22 hit. Here's the chorus: "Me and my baby got a good old fashioned love/We ain't giving it up for nobody when the times get tough/As long as the world keeps spinning around/This is where I'll be found/Here with my baby, got a good thing going/And it keeps on growing/Got a good old fashioned love, oh yeah, uh huh". Paul and Taylor Dunn wrote 'There But For the Grace of God Go I'. It includes backing vocals by Wayne Kirkpatrick and Christopher Harris and won a Dove Award for 'Country Recorded Song of the Year'. This great mid-tempo country song encourages us to remember and help the least of these amongst us: "Oh there but for the grace of God go I/How without compassion can we pass them by?/Oh, it could be you and it could be me the world has locked outside/There but for the grace of God go I/Oh the time has come for everyone to learn to help another/We could turn this whole wide world around if we'd only love each other".
Next up is the title track, 'Love is Strong', a country ballad with these beautiful words: "Love is strong (2X)/It can move a mountain/It can roll away the stone/Love is strong (2X)/But never demands its own way/No love never demands its own way". Steel guitar is played by Paul Franklin and strings are arranged by Archie Jordan. 'Head Over Heels' is the song of one smitten by a lady: "I'm still head over heels in love with you/Just like the first time that we met/I know I never will forget/I knew right then that it was real/I still get a thrill when I think about you/Don't ever doubt the way I feel/I love you now and always will/I'm still head over heels".
Paul co-wrote 'What Goes Without Saying' with Jeff Borders. Supporting vocals are provided by Paul, Glen Campbell, Susan Ashton, and Kelly Willard. This is a sentimental country number: "He stood there looking at his father who was 85 years old/He remembered all the ball games they played so long ago/Then he put his arms around him and kissed him on the cheek/He said 'Dad, it's time I told you what a friend you've been to me'". 'Take Some Action' is a groovy sounding country song that includes this story: "Now Harry, he was married to his work and his wife/Had to decide which was first in his life/He traded some money for some more time at home/Now his wife calls him 'honey'/The romance is back on".
Paul and Randy Travis wrote 'Lord, She Sure is Good at Loving Me'. It's a country and western ballad of gratitude: "Lord, she sure is good at loving me/I know You had a hand in this/Cause it's been so plain to see/That I've been blessed with the very best that love will ever be/Lord, she sure is good at loving me". Last up is 'Till the Answer Comes (Gotta Keep Praying)'. Matt Rollings plays piano and Kelly Willard and Buddy Greene are background vocalists. It's an upbeat country song encouraging spiritual persistence: "Till the answer comes you gotta keep praying/Keep praying till the answer comes/If you knock one time and there's no answer/Well, don't turn away from the door/You've got to knock again until you've been let in/Sometimes it only takes once more"
To be truthful, to this day, there isn't a lot of great Christian country music out there. LOVE IS STRONG is a splendid album of country music, with some country and western music mixed in. There are more fast songs than slow songs. There are ones about happy, fulfilling, romantic, committed relationships, and ones about the value of working on relationships. God's tender, but strong, love for us is spoken of and we are reminded to tell our loved ones how much they mean to us. We are reminded as well to be a people of prayer. I'm rating this album, which runs 38 minutes and 42 seconds, a 100%. Paul's vocals are easy to listen to. For more info visit: www.pauloverstreet.com and connect with him on Facebook.
