Andrae Edward Crouch and his twin sister Sandra were born on July 1, 1942 in San Francisco, California. Andrae Crouch &The Disciples put out their debut album TAKE THE MESSAGE EVERYWHERE in 1968. Their last recording was 1978`s LIVE IN LONDON. In 1973 Andrae released his solo debut, JUST ANDRAE. It was one of over ten solo albums he would release. He passed away in 2015 at the age of 72 after having had a heart attack. What I am reviewing here is TRIBUTE-THE SONGS OF ANDRAE CROUCH (1996, Warner Alliance). Andrae wrote all of the songs alone except for `Jesus is the Answer' which is a co-write with sister Sandra.
CeCe Winans sings 'Take Me Back'. This R&B ballad desires intimacy with Christ: "I feel that I'm so far from you Lord/But still I hear You calling me/Those simple things that I once knew/Their memories keep drawing me.../Renew my faith, restore my joy/And dry my weeping eyes". Michael W. Smith sings 'Jesus is the Answer'. It's a well known soulful ballad that points people directly to Christ: "In case you don't know/I'm here to tell you that the Word of God is true/And everything that He's promised/I tell you He would do it for you/Let me tell you that/Jesus is the answer for the world today/Above Him there's no other/Jesus is the Way". Twila Paris sings 'I Don't Know Why Jesus Loved Me'. It's an adult contemporary ballad of reflection: "Where would I be if Jesus didn't love me?/Where would I be if Jesus didn't care?/Where would I be if He hadn't sacrificed His life?/Oh, but I'm glad, so glad He did".
Next up, Bryan Duncan covers 'It's Gonna Rain'. Horns are used on this jazzy pop song that draws from the Old Testament: "They knocked on my window/And knocked on my door/They cried 'Noah, can you take on some more?'/Noah cried out 'You're full of sin/Well, God's got the key and ya can't get in'/The people cry/'Rain go away!'" Wayne Watson covers 'Through it All' in adult contemporary fashion. It's a great song of faith: "Through it all, through it all/I've learned to trust in Jesus,/I've learned to trust in God/Through it all, through it all/I've learned to depend upon His Word".
The Winans perform 'It Won't Be Long', a gospel ballad that builds in intensity. It anticipates heaven: "Count the years as months/Count the months as weeks/Count the weeks as days/Any day now/We'll be goin'/We'll be goin' home". Clay Crosse performs 'The Blood Will Never Lose Its Power' on which Phil Madeira plays the Hammond B-3. It's a wonderful gospel anthem of testimony: "The blood that Jesus shed for me/Way back on Calvary/Oh, the blood that gives me strength from day to day/It will never lose its power/For it reaches to the highest mountain/And it flows to the lowest valley/Oh the blood that gives me strength from day to day/It will never lose its power".
Take 6 is up next with their acapella spin on 'This is Another Day'. They testify: "This is another day that the Lord has kept me/Ooh, this is another day He's blessed me/He kept me from all evil/With my mind straight on Him". The Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir with soloist Calvin Hunt and John Hammond on drums, deliver a splendid version of 'Soon and Very Soon'. It offers great hope: "Soon and very soon/We are going to see the King (3X)/Hallelujah, hallelujah!/We are going to see the King.../No more crying there.../No more dying there".
First Call deliver an adult pop version of 'Can't Nobody Do Me Like Jesus'. Mark Douthit plays sax on this testimonial: "Can't nobody do me like Jesus/Can't nobody do me like the Lord/Can't nobody do me like Jesus/He's my friend/He healed my body and He told me to run/He's my friend". Last up we have the classic 'My Tribute (To God Be the Glory)' performed by Andrae and an All Star Choir which includes Kim Boyce, Steve Camp, Fairfield Four, Guardian, Vestal Goodman, Dana Key, Larry Norman, Janet Paschal, and Kim Rutherford, among others. It's praise and worship black gospel style: "To God be the glory (3X)/For the things He has done/With His blood He has saved me/With His power He has raised me/To God be the glory for all the things He has done!"
TRIBUTE-THE SONGS OF ANDRAE CROUCH does not disappoint. It is essentially a praise and worship record peppered with black gospel, R&B, and adult pop sounds. Jesus is what fuels these eleven songs. He loves us so much that He died for us on Calvary, shedding His blood, and rising from the dead three days later, paving the way for us to receive everlasting life if we will only admit our sin and believe in Him. Songs on this album, which I'm rating 100%, are timeless, and remind us to stay close to God and trust Him. If you like multi-artist projects like MY UTMOST FOR HIS HIGHEST and CITY ON A HILL, consider picking up this compilation album. For more info visit Andrae's musician/band page on Facebook.
Two of my favourite Bride albums are 1992's SNAKES IN THE PLAYGROUND and 1994's SCARECROW MESSIAH. When I found out lead singer Dale Thompson was involved with a new band, I knew I had to review their album. N.O.G. (No Other God) dropped their album TAKE IT BY STORM (Roxx Records) this year, 2019. Thompson is joined by Nenel Lucena (guitars), Alexandre Aposan (drums), and Raphael Dafras (bass). Thompson wrote all the lyrics.
Starting things off is the hard rockin' title track 'Take it by Storm'. It includes these biblical lyrics: "The Stone that the builders rejected is where I will lay my head.../If you have seen Me/You have seen the Father/So let there be light/I must be leaving but I will send another to show you the way". 'Burn All The Way' begins with these words of indictment: "Give me shelter from the storm in the forest of the witch/Voodoo in the air, crying voiced in the air/With your guns and with your drugs/Saying right is wrong and wrong is right/This generation hasn't learned from the past".
'Turn' sizzles musically and features a chorus focused on the end times: "Turn, turn your head to the east/Turn, every eye will see/Turn, turn your head to the east/Turn, every heart will believe, will believe". There's a great electric guitar solo! 'Phobia' has a plodding rock feel to it and warns against disobeying God: "Sins of the flesh is an evil kind of death/It chases you till you are out of breath/The army of pornography, addiction, and apostasy/All of its profanities/Slow killing with fantasies/Sin should be your phobia"(4X).
'Death of the Millions' is sort of an eerie hard rocker warning against false teachers: "You wear deception ignorantly/Forcing a lost man to his knees/When the price has already been paid/By a man that rose from the grave". Those who like 2 Corinthians 5:7 will like the message of the chugging chorus of 'Walk By Faith'. It goes: "Walk by faith, not by sight/Walk by faith, fight with all your might".
'Life is Long' is a kickin' hard rock song of spiritual determination: "The days are getting shorter and I am getting older/I still have fight left in me/Jesus makes me wiser/I pray that I am nicer than I used to be/Life isn't long enough to quench/Thirst for eternity/Death isn't final enough my friend/To stop me from believing". This song has great electric guitar work. 'One More Day' is an emotional Bowie-influenced rock ballad: "I've lost the song in the rhyme/Poem trapped in my mind/Stumbling on the melody/It's the beat I need to find/The notes all sound the same/Movement doesn't change/As I turn the page/Someone takes the stage".
Up next is 'Pay the Price' which begins with these mysterious words: "Into the blackness, into the dark/The forbidden curse, the Judas heart/I lay prostrate upon our grave/Hoping in Jesus' Name you will be saved". 'Matter of Fact' is a headbanger that includes these words of encouragement: "There is nothing impossible/Dreams come true/Pray that the Spirit rises up in you/Devils and demons, they are all the same/They all bow down at Jesus' Name".
'The Great One Falls' runs over six minutes. These lyrics about the end times mince no words: "I smell the foul stench of the devil's remorse/Burning my nostrils and making me hoarse/I taste the bitter gall of unrepentant blood/Stinging my lips and swelling my tongue/Horsemen riding with death in their eyes/I am sure that the wicked are surprised". It's an epic song! Last up is 'Your Time Has Come', which begins with a depressing narrative. This is another epic song, this time running over eight minutes long. It offers these words of comfort: "The Spirit's there to teach us/The Son is there to guide us/The Father's there to love us/Forevermore, forevermore".
Wow! TAKE IT BY STORM is one heck of a wild hard rock and heavy metal ride! Dale's vocals are absolutely terrific and gripping. I also really appreciate the killer electric guitar solos. These songs pound and pulse with life. Lyrically, these tunes encourage us to live godly, righteous lives. We should desire to be 100% dedicated to the Lord Jesus Christ even in these dark times in which we live. This album will also really get you thinking about the end times and things to come. This is the best album I've heard in this genre of music since Stryper's GOD DAMN EVIL. I'm rating this N.O.G. record a perfect 100% and recommending it to fans of X-Sinner, Bride, and Guns N' Roses. There are great photos of the four band members in the CD booklet. For more info visit: www.roxxproductions.com and/or connect with the band on social media.
Randy Bruce Traywick, who we know better as Randy Travis, was born on May 4, 1959 in Marshville, North Carolina. He's the second of six kids. He released his major label country debut album STORMS OF LIFE in 1986. Some of his best known hits are 'Diggin' Up Bones', 'Forever and Ever, Amen', and 'Forever Together'. In 2000 he released his first gospel album, INSPIRATIONAL JOURNEY. In 2002, he put out his second, RISE AND SHINE (Word/Curb). It was produced by Kyle Lehning and executive produced by Barry Landis. It peaked at #1 on the USA Billboard Top Christian Albums chart.
Dan Dugmore plays steel guitar on the country ballad 'Raise Him Up'. It will make you think: "Y'all may have to look at Joseph a couple of thousand years ago/When he held a newborn baby he named Jesus/He said 'He may not be blood of my blood/Still, I'm gonna raise Him up/I'll provide for Him, walk beside of Him/I am strong enough/I will show Him too what a son can do/With a father's love and he will change the world'". Aubrey Haynie plays fiddle on the title cut 'Rise and Shine'. This upbeat country song shares great news: "It's been two thousand years, but the story's still the same/For those who will believe in Him and call upon His Name/The Son's gonna rise and shine/Heal the sick, raise the dead, the Savior of mankind/The day will soon be dawning/Will be the end of time/King of kings, Lord of lords/The Son's gonna rise and shine". Rory Lee and Paul Overstreet wrote 'When Mama Prayed', a song of precious remembrance: "When mama prayed, good things happen/When mama prayed, lives were changed/Not much more than five foot tall/But mountains big and small crumbled all away when mama prayed".
'I'm Ready' has an old country twang to it and finds John Barlow Jarvis on piano. It anticipates eternal life in heaven: "I'm ready to go that distance and God only knows when that might be/But oh, what joy waits up yonder/Once this old world sets me free". Doug Johnson and Kim Williams wrote the memorable story song 'Three Wooden Crosses', on which Steve Gibson plays electric guitar and mandolin. It tells the tale of a farmer, a teacher, a hooker, and a preacher. All of them but the hooker die in a collision between a midnight bus and an eighteen wheeler. The hooker gets saved and her son becomes a preacher.
'That's Jesus' was penned by Randy, Michael A. Curtis, and Pastor John Hagee. Wes Hightower sings backing vocals on this country ballad that testifies: "I was lost and all alone/My heart in need of help/I found eternal life/And lost my fear of death/Because I know the author of my every breath/Oh, that's Jesus, that's Jesus". 'Pray for the Fish' is a fun toe-tapping country song about the baptism of rebel Eddie Lee Vaughn: "Then the preacher said/'People take a moment or two/There's something we need to do/Pray for the fish/They won't know what's comin'/When the sin starts rolling off the likes of him/Lord, be with 'em, they ain't done nothin'/Please won't You leave them just a little bit of room to swim?/Pray for the fish'".
Next up is 'Jerusalem's Cry' written by Randy, Lance Dary, and Pastor Matthew Hagee. This ballad points to the end times: "Soon we'll see His wrath come down/And the Lord descending from the sky/When you hear the trumpets sound/God has answered Jerusalem's cry (2X)/Soon the dead in Christ will rise and join Him in the sky/Even unbelievers will see/God has answered Jerusalem's cry (2X)". 'Keep Your Lure in the Water' is a folksy tune encouraging us to be witnesses for Christ: "Keep your lure in the water/Don't just sit by the shore/There are souls to be caught everywhere in this old world/Go where hearts are plenty/Don't just drift with the tide/Keep your lure in the water, in the waters of life".
'If You Only Knew' is a Rob Mathes/Phil Naish composition. Strings arranged by Bergen White are used on this inspirational song about a father speaking these comforting words to his daughter while on his deathbed: "Fear not, this is my time/And into His presence I'll fly/If you only knew what lies awaiting/If you could only see what I can see/If you could only hear the music playing/The angels singing sweet victory/Oh, if you only knew, if you only knew/How much He loves you". 'Everywhere We Go' is upbeat country that is a rally cry: "We are soldiers of the cross/We've been found to reach the lost/In city streets, down country roads/We take You with us everyday and everywhere we go".
'The Gift' was penned by Phillip Moore and Ray Scott. It reflects on the incarnation: "They wrapped Him up with gentle hands/God hoped the world would understand/Eternal life we shall receive/And all that He asks in return/Is that we just believe". Last up is 'Valley of Pain' which includes these requests of God: "Bathe me in a river of my tears/Whisper hope and truth and courage in my ears/Remind me when I reach the other side/I'll be thankful for every tear that I've cried".
RISE AND SHINE is a wonderful country gospel album showcasing Randy Travis' great baritone vocals. There are seven fast songs and six slower ones. The birth and crucifixion of Jesus Christ are central to this album. Christ gives us hope, healing, forgiveness of sins, salvation, and life everlasting. Randy anticipates being in His heavenly home, heaven. He encourages us to be a people of prayer, for it changes lives. He also urges us to reach out to the lost and unsaved. I'm rating this album 100% and recommending it to fans of Alan Jackson and Johnny Cash. For more info visit www.randytravis.com and/or connect with him on social media.
Francesca Battistelli was born on May 18, 1985 in New York City. She released her independent debut album, JUST A BREATH, in 2004. Her major label debut was 2008's MY PAPER HEART. Her 2nd radio single, 'Free to Be Me', was nominated for a Grammy. In 2010 and 2011 she won the Dove Award for 'Female Vocalist of the Year'. Also, in 2011 she won 'Artist of the Year'. In 2016 she won a Grammy for 'Best Contemporary Christian Music Performance/Song' for 'Holy Spirit'. Her latest record is OWN IT (Curb/Word). A variety of producers were used including Ian Eskelin and Tommee Profitt.
Starting things off is the album's lead single, 'The Breakup Song', penned by Francesca, David Garcia, and MercyMe's Bart Millard. It's a groovy adult contemporary, anti-worry ballad: "Oh, fear you don't own me/There ain't no room in this story/And I ain't got time for you/Telling me what I'm not, like you know me/Well, guess what?/I know who I am/I know I'm strong/And I am free/Got my own identity/So fear, you will never be welcome here!" 'The Very Best' is an upbeat pop rally cry: "We are the start of a movement/We do the things worth doing/We know this is our moment/So we own it/We are the next generation/We got the words worth saying/We have the spark to inspire/To start a fire".
'Love Somebody' is a good pop/dance number reminding us of one of our main purposes on earth: "When you love somebody and you give it no conditions/When you really show them Jesus/It can change everything". 'Royalty' is one of two compositions by Francesca, Seth Mosley, and Mia Fieldes. It's a slow pop song claiming our true identity: "No longer orphans, now sons and daughters/Worthy and wanted, we belong/We are, we are, we are, we are/Crowned in dignity/We are, we are, we are, we are/Heirs to majesty/We're made for victory/We're given authority to reign like kings and queens/We're royalty".
'This Could Change Everything' is the album's second single. Francesca, Jason Walker, and Tommee Profitt wrote this pop song of encouragement: "The night is long but the world keeps turning/You gotta know, it's not the end/Every new sunrise is one step closer/It's a sign in the sky that the fight's not over/So face the world/It's now or never/This is the moment/Let it begin". 'You Belong' is an adult contemporary ballad that's a self-esteem booster: "You belong/The whole world is waiting/No one else can sing your song/You belong/The lie that's been chasing you/Love's gonna prove it wrong/Open your eyes/Breathe in the light/You don't have to hide/You belong".
Next up is 'As Good As It Gets', which begins with sentimental remembrances: "Remember the joy that would come without warning/Open your eyes/Woke you up on a Saturday morning/I remember/Running outside to a world with no fear/Wide open spaces and summers that lasted for years/I remember it clear". Francesca co-wrote 'Let the Light In' with Seth Mosley and Ellie Holcomb. This light pop song is personal: "This is a song to remind me/We've all got some broken we're hiding/None of us are ok/We all fall, we all break/This is a song to remind me/To let the light in".
What follows is the over seven minute long 'Defender', featuring Steffany Gretzinger of Bethel Music fame. She co-wrote this, the album's third single, with Rita Springer and John-Paul Gentile. It's a modern worship anthem: "And all I did was praise/All I did was worship/All I did was bow down, oh/All I did was stay still/Hallelujah, You have saved me!/So much better Your way/Hallelujah, great Defender!/So much better Your way". Last up is 'Freedom', an upbeat AC song of celebration: "Here in this moment/The world is wide open/My chains have been broken/And now there's no going back to before/You made me for freedom/Freedom/No more living in the dark".
OWN IT clocks in at 38 minutes and 21 seconds. There are five pop songs, four adult contemporary, and one modern worship. Six of the ten songs are on the slower side of things. Francesca's vocals are terrific here! This album is really about our true identity. We can derive our self-esteem and self-confidence from the fact that we have been adopted by God. We are His sons and daughters and royal heirs. We can conquer fear and worry and rest in God and live in His freedom. As God's kids we have great potential to make a difference in our world. We should be kind to others, love them, and share Jesus with them. This album has a very modern pop vibe to it. Fans of Taylor Swift's last couple of albums should check out OWN IT, which I'm rating 95%. For more info visit www.francescamusic.com and/or connect with Francesca on social media.
Margaret Becker was born on July 17, 1959 in Bay Shore, New York. In 1987 she put out her debut album NEVER FOR NOTHING. In 2002 she won two Dove Awards. One was 'Rock Album of the Year' for SIMPLE HOUSE and the other was for 'Rock Recorded Song of the Year' for 'Simple House'. Fast forward to 2007 and she released AIR (modernm Records). Becker produced eight of the tracks, while Stephen Leiweke produced two of them. Margaret thanks "World Vision-for giving it all meaning" in the liner notes.
Starting off the album is 'Coming Up For Air', one of three co-writes by Margaret Becker and Kelly Minter. It's an upbeat pop song about refreshing oneself: "I'm coming up for air/I'm gonna do a really slow repair/Gonna take some time to taste the tide of what it means to be alive/I'm coming up for air/I'm moving out/I'm driving on 'till I can stare/At a winter sun setting on a beach/And wide open space in front of me". 'All I Need is Love' offers these words of confession: "I must be crazy, a pompous fool/Got nothing good enough for You/No shiny trinkets, no precious jewels/Nothing but the simple truth that/All I need is love, love, love, love/Love is all I really need".
'Fly' is one of six songs Margaret wrote on her own. It speaks of having faith: "It's amazing how much you can do with just a slingshot and a stone/When everything inside you says/It's not what you see, but what you know/And, oh, no wings no right/I shouldn't glide/Oh, but I believe/Therefore (3X)/I fly". 'Just Isaac' is a soft adult contemporary song that draws from the Old Testament: "Complications and Ishmael's/Why couldn't I believe that You'd be faithful?/You'll have Your way, either way/With all my extra's or just plain/Isaac/Nothing more/Just Your promise, not my forced crude hands/Helping out/Adding stuff till it crashes down".
'Surrender' is a pretty ballad about letting go: "Surrender, surrender/Let it all fall where it must and just/Trust, trust/Surrender, be ground, be crumbled/Nothing grows on rock and steel/So let's just yield to surrender". 'Said and Done' is a great song of encouragement: "You gotta stand up/And get yourself a piece of chalk/Go outside and trace the steps that you were meant to walk/By faith and truth/And the good sense God gave to you/Cause Hon/It's not all said and done/Who wrote that anyway?/Come on, get up, and run/You be alive today/It's not all said and done".
Next up is 'Dear John'. This adult pop song reads like an honest diary entry: "Dear John/Thought you would like to know that I'm doing really good/Since you've gone or since I let you go/Things have worked out like they should/The fear of losing you/Was much worse than the coming true/And alone is not so lonely/At least not most the time/And starting over has been kinda fun". Margaret co-wrote 'Beautiful' with David M. Edwards. It talks of God's work in us: "Trying to hold the image of You/Imperfectly perfect/You shine through/Smelling of Eden, heaven's perfume/It's beautiful/Now I am seeing through tinted hues/Your fingerprints leaving traces of You/Unfinished vessel with scars and wounds/And they're beautiful/Well, they're beautiful".
'You're Still God' ultimately places trust in God: "Feet of clay and a heart of glass/So many mysteries I just can't get past, but/You're still God (2X)/So forgive my fumbling, forgive my brain/Forgive all my questions, forgive my pain". Last up is 'To Be An Indian'. It's easy listening and I like these lyrics from the chorus: "Oh, to be an Indian/To hear the things that no one hears/Like healing in the break/Oh, to be someone who can look at the desert/And hear rain".
AIR clocks in at 38 minutes and 43 seconds. Seven of the ten songs are on the slower side of things. Six are adult pop, three adult contemporary, and one is easy listening. This album reminds us that God is working in and through us imperfect vessels. We can trust Him and step out in faith into the world to do His good work. When we fall or fail, we are encouraged to get up and try again. Our God is a God who heals. This album reveals a more mature, content Margaret Becker. The last song 'To Be An Indian' advises us not to rush through life being out of tune with the world we live in. I'm rating AIR a perfect 100%. For more info visit www.margaretbecker.com and/or connect with her on social media.
Sanctus Real formed in Toledo, Ohio in 1996. SAY IT LOUD was their major label debut in 2002. They followed this up with 2004's FIGHT THE TIDE (Sparrow). It was produced by Tedd T. and executive produced by Christopher York. It won a Dove Award for 'Modern Rock Album of the Year'. Group members on the album were: Matt Hammitt, Chris Rohman, Mark Graalman, and Steve Goodrum.
'Everything About You' was the album's lead single and stayed at #1 for six weeks. It's a rock song of praise: "Everything about You/It takes my breath away/Hallelujah/I tried this once without You and it was my great mistake/Hallelujah/Questions fade when You invade/You chase all of my fears away/With Your love in my atmosphere/All confusion disappears". 'The Fight Song' was the second single and also hit #1. This pop/rock song seeks reconciliation: "And hey, now what am I to say?/My foolish words got in the way of us being friends/Wake up, make up, can we get along again?/I don't really want to fight over something that's really nothing/It doesn't matter/I don't really want to scar your heart with words that hurt you/I won't hurt you".
'Alone' is an energetic rocker that's a great love song: "Two hearts entwined/Yes, you are mine/And I'll be your's forever/I've done the math, I'm less than half/We're better off together/And I want you here by my side/As much as you are on my mind/When I'm gone you should know/You are not alone". 'Things Like You' is about a new start: "God, I can't be living life for things I know are wrong/Now I think it's time to write a better chapter in my life/Leaving all those things that keep me wrapped so tight".
'Closer' is pop/rock desiring intimacy with the Father: "Like a bird flying south/I'm seeking You out/And there's no rope that can tie me down/I'm running home/I'm a slave set free/You're all I need". 'Change Me' is an adult contemporary ballad that includes these prayerful words: "Would You change me from who I've been lately?/Cause I know I'm nothing without You".
Next up is 'The Show', a pop song that reflects on Acts 2: "Oh, I'd do anything to feel the wind that day/There in the upper room, all in one place/And I'd give anything to hear the sound of the Spirit coming down/And the praises they sang.../And though I've never seen those holy tongues of fire/I feel You in my heart/You inspire me". 'Message' rocks and speaks of our need for each other: "To everyone who's stood alone for doing right/You are the heroes of these dark and desperate times/We can't go solo if we're gonna win this fight/We're only stronger when we're standing side by side".
'Deeds' offers spiritual wisdom: "If you don't have faith you have nothing at all/If you don't have deeds your faith will fall/They can'at be true without each other/You can't have one without the other". 'You Can't Hide' reminds us God is everywhere: "When you think you've escaped/He's right beside you/When you sleep, when you wake/In the midst of your heartbreaks/He is there and He knows".
What follows is 'Where Will They Go', a pleasant pop song about witnessing: "How many lives could be changed if I'd convey/All of the words that I was scared to say?/Show me the way from here/Love, show me the way/When I'm afraid to say the right thing/I'm a stone, frozen in place/I need Your grace to show me how". 'Say Goodbye' is an emotional pop ballad: "And though you're gone, I remember now/The time we shared/Your words still ring out/You're never too far, you're in my heart". After some five minutes of silence, the record closes with an alternate take of 'Everything About You'. It's lighter than the original and sounds more acoustic.
FIGHT THE TIDE is a terrific Christian pop/rock record with a few adult contemporary songs mixed in. Our need for God is a main theme. He can transform us and help us not to chase after the wrong things in life. Our human need for each other, whether it be in friendships or romantic relationships, is pointed out. Also, we are encouraged to witness for Christ and stand up for what's right. I'm recommending this album to fans of Bleach and latter era Audio Adrenaline. It's getting a 96% from me. For more info visit www.sanctusreal.com and/or connect with them on social media.
Jacquelyn 'Jaci' Davette Velasquez was born on October 15, 1979 in Houston, Texas. After releasing two independent projects, in 1996 she released her major label debut, HEAVENLY PLACE which birthed a handful of #1 hits including 'If This World'. Fast forward to 2000 and after putting out two more albums (one Spanish), she released CRYSTAL CLEAR (Word/Epic). It was produced by Mark Heimermann and Rudy Perez, and executive produced by Judith Volz. In the liner notes Jaci writes: "I have had the craziest year of my life personally, spiritually, and musically. God, through all of this, has shown His faithfulness and I thank Him from the bottom of my heart and soul".
Starting things off is 'Esuchame (Listen to Me)', one of two songs penned by Jaci and Mark Heimermann. Horns are used to good effect. George Cocchini plays guitars on this fun sounding Latin pop song of encouragement: "I've got a secret that'll carry you through/There is a God who loves to look after you/Hey little sister/Don't you worry no more/Just come with me, you see/I've been there before". Matt Stanfield and Tiffany Arbuckle (Plumb) wrote 'Crystal Clear', the title track. Lisa Bevill sings backing vocals on this adult contemporary ballad that's a divine love song: "I'm soft like clay/Your hands they mold me/For You, I would run away/Just to hear You calling out my name/Now it's crystal clear/I'm falling for You". 'Everytime I Fall' is a peppy pop/dance number about God's faithfulness: "Time and time again/When I think I've reached the end/It's Your voice I hear, that draws me near/I don't know what makes You stay/When I act this way/No matter what we've been through/I can turn to You".
'You're Not There' is an adult contemporary ballad with strings arranged by the late Tom Howard and performed by Carl Gorodetsky and The Nashville String Machine. This song reminds us God is not distant: "You're not there, way out there/Wandering in Your great unknown/You are here, ever near/In my heart You've found a home/You are living/You are breathing/I can feel Your presence in me". Chris Eaton and Brent Bourgeois wrote 'Adore', a modern worship ballad: "Adore (3X)/Jesus, I adore You/Yes I adore, adore, adore, adore/Jesus, I adore You/And I lay my life before You/Oh, Lord". It's one of Jaci's signature songs and is beautiful.
Next up is 'He's My Savior', which begins with these words of testimony: "He's the sunlight in my sky/He is the moon that shines at night/He's the rainbow over me, the river running to the sea/The music and the poetry, the beauty that my eyes can see/Still His love means so much more to me/He's my Savior and everything within me/Wants to tell the world it's true". Mark Heimermann, Nick Gonzales, Javier Solis, Brad Ford, and Shana Ford wrote 'You Don't Miss A Thing'. Horns are used on this upbeat pop song that reminds us we can't hide anything from God: "You know my motives/You know my heart/No matter what I'm doin'/You see my secrets/Right through the dark/Who do I think I'm foolin'?"
Strings are conducted by Randall Thornton and provided by The Utah Symphony on 'Imagine Me Without You', a tender ballad of testimony: "In my life You're all that matters/In my eyes the only truth I see/When my hopes and dreams have shattered/You're the One that's there for me". Rudy Perez, Judith Volz, and Loren Balman wrote 'Come As You Are'. Chris Rodriguez plays guitars on this adult pop ballad of spiritual invitation: "Come as you are/Don't change a thing/Open your heart/He'll walk right in/Come as you are/No alibis/His love for you will never die". It's a duet with Luis Fonsi.
'Center of Your Love' finds Jackie Street on bass and Michael Tait on backing vocals. On it, Jaci testifies: "There is nothing I can see that the world can offer me/What could possibly compare/To Your tender, loving care?" Seven backing vocalists including Lisa Cochran and Chris Harris are used on the closing track, 'Just A Prayer Away'. This ballad speaks of intimacy with Christ: "When I close my eyes/Lord, I call Your Name/And the dark subsides/Nothing can take the place/Of the peace I find/You came to save me/To show me that You're just a prayer away".
CRYSTAL CLEAR contains six adult contemporary and five pop songs, with almost an equal number of slow and fast songs. Jaci's vocals are strong and well suited to this material. A main theme is God's personal and loving care for each of us on this planet. Falling in love with and being in love with God are also prevalent topics. In His healing love we are truly free. Our response should be to praise God, live for Him, and to reach out to others with the hope, and salvation, and love that He offers. The pics of Jaci with this CD are beautiful! I'm rating CRYSTAL CLEAR 95%. For more info visit www.jacivelasquez.com and/or connect with her on social media. Fans of Gloria Estefan, Rachael Lampa, and Tammy Trent, should acquire this album.
Margaret Becker was born on July 17, 1959 in Bay Shore, New York. She has a degree in communication from James Madison University. Her debut album was 1987's NEVER FOR NOTHING. Fast forward to 1999 and she released her ninth record, WHAT KIND OF LOVE (Sparrow). It was produced by Tedd Tjornhom and executive produced by Lynn Nichols. Margaret thanks "World Vision for allowing me the opportunity to work with them and visibly see lives changed".
Starting things off is 'Friend For Life', one of two co-writes with Chris Eaton. It's an adult pop song about sharing one's faith: "I want to be the one to tell you, to tell it like it is/To let you know the God of love will never leave your side/I want to be the one to lead you with everything I am/And see the day when you let Him in and make a Friend for life". 'Worlds Apart' is one of four co-writes with Robbie Nevill. This adult contemporary ballad anticipates a reunion with Father God: "When that day comes and You're standing inches away/I'll reach out my arms and fall into love's embrace/And when You call my name/I know my true life is gonna start/When we will finally be/No longer, no longer worlds apart".
'What Kind of Love' is the adult pop title track. It contains this chorus of wonder: "What kind of love is this?/That You would lay down Your life for someone such as me/I'll spend my lifetime wondering why/The beauty of heaven chose here in my heart/To pour out His perfect gift/What kind of love is this?" 'I Won't Be Persuaded' begins with these very relatable words: "Sometimes it hurts to be so close to the pain/When I know the One who loves me most/Could make it all change/Sometimes I'm lost in the land of questioning/And I rub together timeless truths/Like flint and stone in the rain/And I don't understand where You are in all this/Still I wait and hope and pray and wish".
Next up is 'Love By Your Side', an adult pop ballad of devotion: "If you wanna feel love by your side/If you're looking for someone that you never seem to find/Turn around and look into my eyes/Cause I've always been right here by your side". It would fit nicely on mainstream radio. 'Feel It All' asks a couple of great questions: "Oh, and what is life/If not to see Your Spirit passing by?/Oh, and what is love/If not to leave the imprint of Your touch?"
Phil Roy and Bob Thiele, Jr wrote 'Hope in a Hopeless World'. It's a great R&B song addressing society's ills: "On a corner stands a young girl/The home she left was from the better part of town/Her daddy did things she just can't talk about/Is there hope in a hopeless world?/You got a quarter for the homeless man/Can you spare more change for the soldiers who fought the war?/Put some money in those hats and those tins/Give them hope in a hopeless world". 'One More Reason' is a song of praise: "Just when I think You've given me all I need/You turn around and You come to me/With one more reason to be lost in Your love/One more reason to be the One that I want/You're more than I needed/More than enough/You keep giving me one more reason".
'All That's Left' includes these prayerful words: "With Your grace/Make me less/Fill me with Your brokenness/Till I raise these hands/To Your lovely face". Last up is 'Poor in Paradise'. Margaret co-wrote this one with Lowell Alexander. It's a beautiful inspirational number of gratitude: "And my eyes are filled to overflowing/As I'm watching all Your love unfold/Cause I can't contain the precious bounty/You've poured out on this tattered soul".
Margaret Becker's seasoned vocals are superb on WHAT KIND OF LOVE. There are five adult pop songs, two each of adult contemporary and R&B, and one inspirational song on this project which has about an equal number of fast and slow songs. God's love and the hope He offers us seem to be the main topics Margaret is concerned with here. She expresses her wish to trust God completely and be devoted to Him. There's also a good song about human companionship ('Love By Your Side'). I'm rating this album 93% and recommending it to fans of Jann Arden and Amanda Marshall. For more info visit www.margaretbecker.com and/or connect with her on Facebook.
Sanctus Real formed in 1996 in Toledo, Ohio. Between 1998 and 2001 they put out three independent albums. In December 2002 they released their major label debut, SAY IT LOUD (Sparrow). Group members were: Steve Goodrum (bass), Matt Hammitt (lead vocals, rhythm guitar), Chris Rohman (lead guitar), and Mark Graalman (drums). The album was produced by Pete Stewart of Grammatrain fame, and executive produced by Christopher York. All of the songs but one were written by Hammitt and Rohman.
First up is the rock song 'Sink or Swim'. It speaks of someone with bad motives: "There is no place for you in what I am called to do.../You curse, you bend my words/You just praise Jesus to be heard/When will we ever learn?" 'Captain's Chair' rocks and is about enduring friendship: "We've seen best of times/And we've heard worst of lies/But here we stand, still we stand".
The title cut, 'Say it Loud', follows. It's a peppy pop/rock song that anticipates the future: "Say it loud, say it loud and clear/Forget about, forget about last year". 'Hey Wait' is a nice adult contemporary ballad about friendship: "I'll pick you up when there's no one around/I'll hold you up when your heart hits the ground". String samples are used to good effect here.
'Inspiration' reminds us to fulfill the Great Commission: "Inspiration is you and I/Changing nations, changing lives.../Seems we'll never do enough to tell the world about God's love/But every soul is worth the fight/Cause we can change the world by changing just one life". 'Audience of One' rocks and is addressed to Christ: "There's something new inside of me/I'm overwhelmed by what I found/Time to take this inside.../You and I will be alright/If there's nothing more to come/Cause Lord I know I sing tonight for an audience of One".
'The Way I Feel' offers hope to the struggling: "Take a look at yourself/Are you wondering how it's gonna work out?/And there's a way to escape what you think is your fate/But you say it's too late.../It's never too late". 'I Love You' is the only song penned solely by lead singer Matt Hammitt. It's an acoustic based ballad of reflection: "Can I look past the cliche in every moment?/Can I learn to be amazed by You?/Can I find a simple way to praise You/Even if it's already used?.../I love You, I love You/I love You/Nothin' new".
Next up is 'All I Want', a rock song expressing desire: "All I want is to bring it back to love/I've got, you've got/We've got to give it to the One who made me.../All You have is all I need/All You have has set, has set me free". 'Nothing to Lose' is a great pop/rock number that opens with these words: "Give love one to another/And give love one to each other/And we'll be fine/We'll be fine".
'Won't Walk Away' is a song of spiritual dedication: "I will follow You wherever You lead/I won't walk away/You always lead me on to where You know I need to be/Forever I will trust in where Your winds will carry me". It's a strong rock track. 'After Today' is a ballad of confession: "I've got a funny feeling that I'm gonna go away/I'm gonna face my future, gonna try to make the grade/I've got a ways to go from here and vision doesn't seem so clear/But praise God, He's got a plan!/Understanding isn't my place". It runs over six minutes long. After a few minutes of silence, there'a short, quirky tune called 'Jesus Metal (Slam the Devil)'.
SAY IT LOUD has aged well over the years. Nine of the songs are modern pop/rock, while three are adult contemporary. Nine are fast, while three are slow. This album encourages us to stay focused on God and to praise Him. Strong emphasis is also put on being a good friend to our fellow humans. We should love and help others. We are not to abandon them during hard times. We are also to look ahead to the future with hope that comes from God. I'm rating this project 85% and recommending it to fans of Audio Adrenaline and Hawk Nelson. For more info visit www.sanctusreal.com and/or connect with the band on Facebook.
Margaret Becker was born on July 17, 1959 in Bay Shore, New York. In 1985 she moved to Nashville. She toured with Rick Cua singing backup. She also appeared on Steve Camp`s 1986 record ONE ON ONE. Her debut album was 1987`s NEVER FOR NOTHING. Fast forward to 1998 and she released her eighth studio album, FALLING FORWARD (Sparrow). Producers used on it were Tedd T., Monroe Jones, and Robbie Nevil. Lynn A. Nichols served as executive producer.
Starting things off is 'I Don't Know How'. It is one of four songs penned by Margaret and Robbie Nevill. This adult contemporary ballad features string arrangement by Carl Marsh and cello by John Catchings. It speaks of the importance of faith: "And I don't know how/Anybody goes without something to believe in/I don't know why we do/And I don't know how/Anybody finds their way without something to believe in/I just know I need You". 'Cave It In' is a rock song on which Margaret expresses her desire to be faithful to her Lord: "The wall between us is so thin/Just a cry would break it in/And I, I think I heard You/Wish for a friend who is not sleeping/Somebody who would wait in the garden/Somebody, how I wish it could be me". Margaret and Tonya Leah wrote 'Clay and Water'. George Cocchini and Gary Burnette play electric guitar on this adult contemporary ballad about metamorphosis: "I am clay and I am water/Falling forward in this order/While the world spins 'round so fast/Slowly I'm becoming who I am".
Dave Lichens, formerly of Petra, is one of the co-writers on 'Horses', a pop song on which Margaret reflects on her own mortality: "I need to remember/The horses will come/I need to remember/How quickly they run/I want no regrets/When the horses come for me/I cannot forget/That the horses come for me". 'Deliver Me' is an adult contemporary song that includes this prayerful chorus: "Deliver me from me/And deliver me to You/Come and set me free/Come and find me tried and true/Come on now/Deliver me from me".
Lynn Nichols plays classical guitar on 'Any Kind of Light'. It speaks of God's majesty: "I held You up/My hope against the night/Closed my eyes/I was afraid to see the sight/Took a look/Fell down blind/What did I see? (2X)/Always stunning, always true/Even the stars bow to You". 'Irish Sea' is one of two songs written by Margaret and Tedd T. Margaret and Quinlan sing backing vocals on this adult pop song. It includes these joyful words: "Sweet revelation/Well, I drink it in/It heals my heart like medicine/So, I take this life and I shake it from this sleep/Cause I'm fire/With the heat/Of the newly freed".
Next up is 'Coins and Promises'. It talks of spiritual struggle: "I should know better/I should believe You/But leaves are falling and I am crumbling in brittle pieces/I should remember/How well You warmed me/But I'm standing in the browns and grays of a season's ending". 'Crawl' is an adult contemporary song of spiritual determination: "I'm alright/I know I'm not alone/If I can't walk to You/You know, I'll crawl.../I set my face like a flint to the north/I watch these storms gather and sort/And I sing/I still sing".
'Take Me In' is the only song Margaret wrote alone on this project. Dan Needham plays the djembe (drum) on this quiet ballad. These words are ones of prayer: "Take me by reason/Take me by surprise/Take me by my heart/Or take me by my eyes/Take me, take me, take me/To Your water's rim/Lift me up and take me in". Margaret and Chris Rodriguez sing backing vocals on the closing number, 'I Testify'. It's a rock song of gratitude: "Your blood like gold on the ground/A red river of pain/You took it without a sound/I know You took it in my name/I testify Your love is true/This I know cause I've been moved/I testify/Your love is real/This I know cause I've been healed".
FALLING FORWARD clocks in at 48 minutes and 36 seconds. The main theme is a desire to have an intimate, personal relationship with God. He is faithful to us, has our best interests at heart, and can be trusted. We should desire to have our lives molded by Him. He is majestic, glorious, and loving. The two main musical genres here are adult pop and adult contemporary, with a couple of rock songs thrown in the mix. There are seven slow songs and four fast ones. I'm rating this album 84%. For more info visit www.margaretbecker.com or connect with her on Facebook.
According to Wikipedia.org, Big Daddy Weave "met after college at the University of Mobile". In 2001 they released the independent album NEIGHBORHOODS. Their debut major label release, ONE AND ONLY (Fervent), dropped in the summer of 2002. Group members were: Mike Weaver (lead vocals, acoustic guitar, background vocals), Jay Weaver (bass, background vocals), Jeremy Redmon (electric guitar, background vocals), Jeff Jones (drums), and Joe Shirk (saxophone). The album was produced by FFH's Jeromy Deibler and executive produced by Susan Riley.
Starting things off is 'In Christ', a great adult pop song of testimony on which sax is used nicely: "While people keep searching for answers/Looking for a light in the dark/I'm standing with the answer/Cause He is living in my heart/In Christ I can do all things/In Christ I mount up on eagle's wings/In Christ I wait for a great reward that I have in store". 'Friend Like You' is a nice adult contemporary song of gratitude: "I woke up this morning/And looked out my window/I could see the sun shining down on me/It reminded me of You/And of all that You do, yeah/And of all the love that You've shown to me/Thank You Lord/Oh, thank You Lord/I am so thankful for a friend like You". A choir that includes three members of FFH (Michael Boggs, Jennifer Deibler, and Brian Smith) is used.
The title track, 'One and Only', is next. It's a praise and worship number: "Yes Lord You are/You are my one and only/Yes Lord You are/You are my one and only God/It is still hard to believe/That You look past all the flaws in me". 'Neighborhoods' is a funkified pop/rock song anticipating heaven: "One day I will fly to my mansion in the sky/And I'll have no regrets when I leave this place for good/When I say my last farewells/Oh, please don't forget to tell them/That I'm not really dead/I'm just changing neighborhoods".
'Being in Love With You' is an adult contemporary song reminding us we don't need to be flashy in our witnessing: "I don't need to try to be the flawless example lifted up for everyone to see/I don't need to stand and shout it/'Hey, I've got the answer!'/If Your presence is living in me/I won't need to talk about it in a church committee/For the world to know the truth/All I need to do is just be me/Being in love with You". 11 people provide claps. 'Audience of One' is a signature song for Big Daddy Weave. It's a modern worship anthem: "And I lift these songs to You and You alone/As I sing to You, in my praises make Your home/To my audience of One/You are Father and You are Son/As Your Spirit flows free let it find within me/A heart that beats to praise You".
'Never Goin' Back' is the only song on which Mike Weaver has a co-writer. It is group member Jeremy Redmon. Jay Weaver provides background vocals on this jazz influenced pop song. It includes these biblical thoughts: "The wisdom of the cross is foolish to the one who won't receive it/Well, there is power just the same/To all who will believe it". 'Sacrifice' includes guest vocals by Shelley Nirider and more biblical thoughts: "And my righteousness is as filthy rags/But You've exchanged them/For the good things that You have".
Jennifer Deibler and Brian Smith are backing vocalists on 'Exalted Forever', a cheerful, upbeat number: "It is good to praise You Lord/To make music to Your holy Name Most High/To sing a song of Your love in the morning/And Your faithfulness, Your faithfulness at night". Last up is 'Rest', which finds Christ speaking: "Take My yoke upon you/Come and learn from Me/For I am humble in spirit and so you must also be/And lo, I will be with you in the midst of every test/If you run unto Me, I will give you rest".
ONE AND ONLY is a wonderful album. There are five pop songs and five adult contemporary, with about an equal number of fast and slow songs. It is evident that the group wants to put God first in their lives and have no other gods. They desire to know Him and love Him more. Christ is praised for His friendship, mercy, love, goodness, and giving us a brand new start spiritually. In Christ, we as believers find our true identity and the power to live the Christian life. Fans of Steven Curtis Chapman and MercyMe should buy this album which I'm rating 90%. For more info visit www.bigdaddyweave.com and/or connect with the band on social media.
Albert 'Al' Wray Denson was born on May 13, 1960 in Starkville, Mississippi. In 1985 he put out his first album STAND UP. Over the years he became known for such songs as 'Be the One', 'Say it With Love', and 'Reasons'. According to the 'Encyclopedia of Christian Music' by Mark Allan Powell: "In 1994 Denson was copiloting a small plane with his friend Grant Milner when the craft experienced engine failure on its approach for landing at the San Antonio airport. Milner was killed in the resulting crash and Denson suffered severe injuries". His first album after this was 1995's DO YOU KNOW THIS MAN? (1995, Benson). It's what I'll be reviewing here. Producers used were Paul Mills, Blair Masters, and Bryan Lenox, while Bill Baumgart served as executive producer.
Rick Elias and Regie Hamm wrote the opening number 'All Around the World'. It's a good pop/dance song that is highly optimistic: "All around the world/I see the arms of Jesus reaching/All around the world/He's healing hearts and souls/And teaching perfect love to every man and woman, boy and girl/'Til the light of heaven shines/All around the world". Strings, french horn, oboe, and saxophone are used on the adult contemporary ballad 'Soul to Soul'. It encourages unity: "My hair's too long and your clothes are way out of style/My music is much too loud and Perry Como's a bit too mild/These trivial things that drive us farther apart/For a much higher call/We must tear down the walls between our hearts".
Regie Hamm wrote 'Pledge to Purity'. It's a lovely duet with Tina Vallejo. It's one of spiritual devotion: "I pledge my life to do what's right/This is my sole security/Here in my heart/Both day and night/I'll make a pledge to purity". Phil Madeira plays B3 organ on 'Church of Love', a gospel number of inclusion: "The orphans of the world can find a sister or a brother/It's where the weary rest and the weak stand tall.../So bring the poor and bring the lonely/Bring the sin sick and diseased/There's no one perfect here/Only passionate disciples doing all they know to believe".
Next up is one of two songs solely penned by Dennis Patton. Lisa Keith and Micah Wilshire are backing vocalists on 'See Him'. It's an easy listening song with these words from one having a burden for another's soul: "How can I show you the love that you need to see?/And how can I tell you the truth and somehow make you believe?/Maybe just one word or a simple smile/Will bring you to your knees and you'll open your eyes and see Him". Dennis Patton and Steve Siler wrote the title track, 'Do You Know This Man?' Dan Huff plays guitars on this adult contemporary song that asks us to examine our standing with Jesus: "Do you know this Man?/Do you call His Name?/When no one can see/Do you call Him your King?/With nothing to gain do you take a stand?"
'Stand on Love' is an upbeat pop song encouraging unity amongst believers: "You see we're so concerned with labels and wanting to belong/We create so much division/We can't even get along/There's no time to judge each other/We're the only ones who lose/We need to come together/Upon the Word of truth". Al co-wrote 'Life on the Edge' with Linda Elias and Blair Masters. It's a pop/dance track of spiritual encouragement: "It's time to live what you believe/We live in a world that will demand your very soul/So stand apart and guard your heart/You can't follow the status quo/You've gotta walk the narrow road/You're not alone". Glenn Pearce provides an electric guitar solo.
Joe Beck, Al, and Brian White wrote 'One Nation Under God'. It's a patriotic cry for revival: "Our fathers built this land on the foundation of the Word/They gave their lives for truth and liberty/Yet today there's something missing/We've pushed aside God's Word/It seems we've lost the reason to believe/The banner's torn and tattered beneath a cloud of sin/And it's time we took America back to the cross again". Last up is the Leonard Ahlstrom/Al Denson composition 'More to Love Than Meets the Eye', on which Bob Carlisle is a backing vocalist. It's an easy listening ballad that includes these hope-filled words: "I keep dreaming of a place that waits behind the door/Where I will see for eternity/All that heaven has in store".
DO YOU KNOW THIS MAN? is the first Al Denson album I have in my collection and it's a dandy! Mainly adult contemporary and pop, there are also elements of easy listening, dance, and gospel. There are six slow songs and four faster ones. The importance of living pure, godly, devoted lives comes across quite clearly. Al stresses a need for unity and love amongst believers and warns against division. In addition, the need to share the Good News of God's love and salvation is a prevalent theme. If you enjoy the music of Wayne Watson and Clay Crosse, you should purchase this record, which I'm rating 100%. For more info visit www.aldenson.com and/or connect with him on Facebook.
Margaret Becker was born on July 17, 1959 in Bay Shore, New York. Early on she sang with the likes of Rick Cua and Steve Camp. Her debut solo album was 1987's NEVER FOR NOTHING (Sparrow). Fast forward to 1993 and she released her fifth album, SOUL (Sparrow). Charlie Peacock served as producer. In the liner notes, Becker writes: "There is a moment in time when the knowledge of love and the experience of love precariously meet to form one brilliant point of rest for the soul".
First up is 'Keep My Mind', one of four songs on this project solely penned by Margaret. Jerry McPherson plays guitar on this pop song that includes these words of confession: "Some steps my feet have taken in hot pursuit/Have led me to some places far away from You/But if I had my way/If it were up to me/I'd chain myself to You/And throw away, throw away the key". Chris Eaton sings backing vocals on 'This I Know', a pop song of celebration: "This I know, only this I know/That Your love never changes/As I go/Only this I know, only this I know/That Your love never changes/As I go".
'Say the Name' is one of four Becker/Peacock compositions. The Nashville String Machine is used on this adult contemporary ballad of determination: "With all the honor I can find/With all my heart, my soul, my mind/I will say the Name/Without defense, without shame/I will always speak the Name of Jesus". 'I Wouldn't Know' is a pop song that uses gang vocals and testifies: "Well, I hear You hum, I feel You breathe/I feel the same heart beating in You and me/I wouldn't know what love is (3X)/Without You, without You".
Margaret co-wrote 'This Flame' with Rick and Linda Elias. It's an adult contemporary ballad of spiritual devotion: "The greatest love I have ever found/Was like a treasure buried in a field of stones/Hidden there in the hardened ground/Was a gift more precious than gold/So I gave all I owned/Just to make it mine.../I will never leave Your side/And this flame will never die". 'The World I See in You' has a bit of a rock edge to it. I like these lyrics: "In Your world I've yet to see/A man too far, a mark too deep/A prodigal or refugee/That could not find shelter in You". Tommy Sims plays bass and Becker even raps a bit!
What follows is 'All That I Am', a quiet ballad singing God's praises: "Well, no one ever gave me/A love so sweet/That tips my heart to drink/When I'm fainting from the heat/That wraps my aching wounds in strips of mercy so tenderly/Is there anyone who can compare?" 'Soul Tattoo' is a groovy pop track about the durability of God's love: "It's like a soul tattoo, like a soul tattoo/Love like this'll never fade away/Like a soul tattoo/You can rub your fingers raw/But you can never get the mark to come off/You can hope it'll come to an end/But this love is forever and ever and ever/Amen".
Becker co-wrote 'Keeping Watch' with Christian rock legend Ed DeGarmo. It's a beautiful adult contemporary duet with Bob Carlisle. Many will relate to these thoughts: "Friends are all around me/There's laughter in my home/But still sometimes I feel so far away/Here inside of my heart/I'll always be alone/Until I finally touch Your gentle face". Closing things out is the adult pop song 'I Will Be With You'. It looks ahead to things to come: "When the sun goes black and the moon goes red/And all the final words have been said/I, I will be with You/When every dream is brought to life/And the hands of time roll back the night/Oh, I, I will be with You/I, I'm gonna be with You".
SOUL is a flawless album. There are six fast paced songs and four slower ones. Pop and adult contemporary are the main musical genres, but there are elements of dance and rock music mixed in. God's love for us is, without a doubt, the main theme on this record. He heals us and brings peace to us. We have the hope of heaven, but until then, we watch for Christ's return. We ought to live lives that are devoted and submitted to God. We can figuratively rest at His feet. There are some lovely photos of Margaret in the CD booklet. I'm rating SOUL 100% and recommending it to fans of Alannah Myles and Lisa Bevill. For more info visit www.margaretbecker.com and/or connect with her on social media.
Tommy Cathey was born in Dyersburg, Tennessee in 1951. I know him for being the cool, longtime bassist for Christian rock legends Degarmo & Key. He's also been a member of the mainstream bands Butterscotch Caboose, Alamo, Omaha, Target, and Almost Famous. Tommy has shared the stage with the likes of Peter Frampton and Black Sabbath. He's also done session work with the likes of Jackson Browne and Jerry Lee Lewis. Fast forward to 2017 and Tommy released his solo debut STOP DROP AND ROCK. I have an autographed copy of it!
'Jump and Shout' mixes 70's rock sounds with gospel and includes an electric guitar solo. It's about moving on after a failed relationship: "Gonna break this hold that you have on me/I'm gonna wipe the dust of you right off of my feet/You know you broke me down with your hit and run heart/And now that I am over you/I'll make a brand new start". 'Times Are A' Changin'' is a cool sounding 70's rock song with great electric guitar work. It's a song of encouragement: "Circle the wagons now/Don't you give up, don't give in/Reach for the power then you do it all over again.../Always gets better/We've been here before/Look for the light when you open the door/It's gonna get better, can't get much worse/Times are a' changin'".
Next up is 'Maybe in Time', one heck of a 70's rock number that plods along and offers these words of spiritual wisdom: "No time for indecision/Follow the Master Plan/This is no dress rehearsal/Open your eyes and see/We only pass through one time/Next stop...eternity". 'Sweet Reunion' doesn't even run two minutes. It's a pretty, acoustic song from a traveling musician addressed to his romantic partner: "I can't wait for sweet reunion/I can't wait to see your face/Counting minutes, counting hours/Til I'm in your warm embrace".
'Shadows' is a slow, calming, atmospheric sounding instrumental good for meditation. 'Makes Me Paranoid' rocks and is a song about indecision: "Oooh, it makes me paranoid/Oooh, I get so paranoid/Someone help me baby/I need to choose.../Once again I stand in open ground/Which way to go/And I'm wondering what to do/I think it's only my distractions running loose".
What follows is 'Can't Live Without You', a ballad that includes these very relatable lyrics: "No, don't ever go/You have to know/I can't make it without you/Oh, I love you so/Don't ever go/I can't live without you now". The electric guitar work here is a highlight. 'Two Hearts' is a short, sentimental, easy listening love song: "Two hearts beating as one/Two hearts love has begun/Now we stand hand in hand/In love's celebration/Now you see, we'll share our dreams in life's celebration".
'Fight the Good Fight' sounds like an older era DeGarmo & Key Christian rock song. It's about spiritual warfare: "I hear the battle sound/I see it goin' down/I'll go where peace is found/I reach for higher ground.../When the war is over/You've put up your best defense between Heaven and Hell/There can be no straddled fence". What a great song! Track 9 on the CD also includes the Bonus Track 'Measure of A Man'. Eddie Smith, a singer-songwriter of country music in Memphis, and a friend of Tommy's sings lead here. This notable country ballad speaks of a proposal: "A lazy old moon and a southern breeze/The happy in your laugh/Just hangin' out with me/A ring in a box/And your tremblin' hands/The heart of a woman/The measure of a man".
STOP DROP AND ROCK is a wonderful solo debut. Tommy Cathey's musical influences include Steely Dan, Led Zeppelin, Jimi Hendrix, and The Eagles, and that comes through on this record. Here, we have five 70's rock tracks, four sort of easy listening, and one country. There are an equal number of fast songs and ballads. Tommy is a good vocalist and an accomplished bass player. He also contributes acoustic guitar. Five musicians support him on this effort. Lyrically, this album is about having an optimistic outlook on life and living with eternity in mind. There are love songs and songs of encouragement to his fellow travelers. I'm rating STOP DROP AND ROCK 90% and recommending it to fans of Dogs of Peace. For more info visit www.tommycathey.com and/or connect with him on Facebook.
Geoff Moore was born on February 22, 1961 in Flint, Michigan. He released three solo albums between 1984 and 1987, with the first being WHERE ARE THE OTHER NINE? From 1988 to 1997 he released several pop/rock albums with his band The Distance. Some of my fave songs from that era include 'The Vow', 'Life Together', 'Good to Be Alive', and 'Evolution...Redefined'. In 1999 he returned to solo records. In 2011 he put out SAYING GRACE (Simpleville Records). In the liner notes Geoff writes: "The life and breath of these songs come from my friends and family and the roads we have walked together and the things we have seen. Many too beautiful or too painful to ever forget".
'I Believe' is a great adult contemporary song of personal testimony: "I believe in the way that You have set me free/I believe in the truth of all You've said to me/I believe in the life that You have given me/I believe (6X)/Alleluia to our King!" The title track, 'Saying Grace', was written by Geoff, Alli Rogers, and Don Chaffer. Also adult contemporary, it reflects on the Last Supper: "They were all together for the very last time/The bread would soon be broken/Then the spilling of the wine/This is my life, I'm pouring out for you/So always remember in everything you do/To open your mouth and say/God is good and God is great!" The female backing vocals here are nice.
'Loved' is a great adult pop song of spiritual encouragement: "On your best day, on your worst day/Every second that you're breathing you are loved, loved/You can rise up, you can fall down/And it never changes how much you are loved, loved/What if you woke up tomorrow and believed His grace was true/That forgiveness is for everyone/Even for you?" Next up is 'The Story of Love', a quiet song of reflection: "I've been thinkin' about my story/The places I come from/Been thinkin' about the mercy/That's shaped what I've become/Been thinkin' about my children/I pray I'm passin' on/The story of love that runs through everything".
'Overwhelming Love' was penned by Geoff, Jason Walker, and Jeff Pardo. It's a modern worship number: "If we could see just one glimpse of who You are/Then we would be undone/By Your astounding, by Your amazing/By Your relentless, overwhelming love". It's a definite highlight! Geoff and Andy Gullahorn wrote 'The Body of Christ', a lovely song: "It's the feet that will carry the prodigal home/The tongue that refrains from recounting the wrong/The arms that will hold you till all shame is gone/This is the body of Christ/We are so many parts/But together we move/Doesn't that fearfully, wonderfully prove/We need each other?"
'Find Me in the Fields' is an adult contemporary song exalting God: "Find me in the fields/Holding nothing back/Find me with praises on my mind and dirt on my hands/And the day the whole earth sees Your glory and kneels/Won't You find me/Find me in the fields?" What follows is 'The Long Way', a pop/rock track that includes these thought provoking lyrics: "Some say it's foolishness to wander/Some say it's weak to wonder why/But I've discovered when I'm honest/That's when my faith is most alive".
'The Wonder of Kindness' is a tender song about God's goodness: "In all my questions, in all my pain/I have pushed and kicked/Against all of these things I can't explain/But my defenses crumble and fall/At the kindness You have woven through it all". Last up is the beautiful ballad 'I Was Made to Love You' which Geoff dedicates to his wife Jan and their adopted Chinese girls. This is the chorus: "I was made to love you/I know this for sure/And as surely as I love you/I know that this is what I was created for".
SAYING GRACE contains six adult contemporary ballads and four more upbeat numbers. Geoff's voice is seasoned and mature. Sonically, this record puts me in mind of Rich Mullins and what he may have put out circa 2011 if he had still been alive. On this record Geoff praises God for many things including the cross and salvation, love, goodness, mercy, creation, and kindness. Geoff's love for his family comes through very clearly. He encourages believers to trust God even in the hard times and to work together as Christ's body. I'm recommending this album to those thirty and over and rating it a 95%. For more info visit www.geoffmoore and/or connect with him on social media.
Sheila Walsh was born on July 5, 1956 in Ayr, Scotland. She released her debut CCM album FUTURE EYES back in 1981. After releasing a handful of other albums she joined Pat Robertson as co-host of 'The 700 Club' in 1987. She also hosted the talk show 'Heart to Heart with Sheila Walsh'. In 1992 she left 'The 700 Club'. She went on to be a speaker and author. She has been open about her struggles with depression. In 2010 she released the album I HEAR ANGELS (Women of Faith), which I am reviewing here. It was produced by John Hartley and executive produced by Lara Dulaney and Barry Walsh. In the liner notes, you'll find these words: "Sheila would like to thank those who worked so hard to make this project not just possible but pure joy!"
'Immortal Invisible' is a pleasant adult pop song of adoration: "To all life Thou givest both great and small/In all life Thou livest true life of all/Great Father of glory, pure Father of light/Thine angels adore Thee/All veiling their sight". John Hartley and Gary Sadler wrote 'You Are Beautiful'. It's a quiet worship song: "You are beautiful, oh Lord/You are high and lifted up/For there is no One like You/Your glory fills the earth/You are beautiful, beautiful/You are beautiful".
Miriam Webster's 'Made Me Glad' is next. It's an easy listening testimonial: "I'll say of the Lord/You are my shield, my strength, my portion/Deliverer, my shelter, strong tower/My very present help in times of need". Fernando Ortega wrote 'Jesus King of Angels', a pretty song that includes these prayerful words: "Remind me how You made dark spirits flee/And spoke Your power to the raging sea/And spoke Your mercy to a sinful man/Remind me, Jesus/For this is what I am".
A lovely, lengthy version of the beloved hymn 'How Great Thou Art' follows. These lyrics are ones of gratitude: "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". John Hartley, Katie Gufstafson, and Derri Daugherty wrote 'Hallelujah'. It's a great ballad! I particularly like these words: "I will never be ashamed for Your mercies I'll proclaim/There is power in Jesus' Name/Hallelujah!/On the cross He bore my sin/When He died and rose again/And ascended into heaven/Hallelujah!"
'To God Alone' is a tender song of worship: "And so to God alone I owe everything/For my every breath/For my hopes and dreams/For the lessons learned/And past forgiven/For this precious gift of life worth living". Gerrit Gustafson wrote the adult contemporary title track, 'I Hear Angels'. It anticipates things to come: "I hear angels singing praises/I see men from every nation/Bowing down before the throne".
The classic hymn ''Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus', follows. It speaks of redemption: "Oh, how sweet to trust in Jesus/Just to trust His cleansing blood/And in simple faith to plunge me/'Neath the healing, cleansing flood". Last up is 'You Belong Here'. Kyle Matthews co-wrote it with Chris Eaton. This inspirational number includes these wonderful words: "And I will throw the door wide open/Run to meet you at the gate/There will be a glad reunion/We have much to celebrate/You belong here/Welcome home!"
I HEAR ANGELS is a superb album! Genre-wise it's a mix of inspirational/easy listening and light adult pop. The majority of the songs are ballads and Sheila's voice is perfectly suited to such fare. The backing vocalists Lisa Cochran, Terry White, and Chris Eaton, also do a great job! Two of the songs were arranged and played by the late Tom Howard. Thematically, we find gratitude for the cross, gratitude for God's love and beauty, and gratitude for God's personal care for each of us. There are also songs that declare a love for and trust in God, and that anticipate heaven. I'm rating I HEAR ANGELS 100% and recommending it to fans of Michelle Tumes, Enya, Maire Brennan, and Annie Herring. For more info visit www.sheilawalsh.com and/or connect with her on social media.
Area Code released their debut album ONE BIG WORLD (1991, Myrrh), many moons ago. Group members were: Stacy B, Jeffrey Smith, Leanza Cornett, and Lindsey Seals. I was able to get in touch with Lindsey via the Internet. He says the group was named as it was because "the idea was to be able to reach all types of people in all types of places". The group's purpose was "to have music that would rival some of the current pop groups of the time". Also, "to show young people primarily, that you could really love Jesus , and be cool and have fun at the same time". ONE BIG WORLD was produced by Eric Champion and Collyer Spreen and executive produced by Chris Christian.
First up is 'Impossible Is Impossible' which is the only song not written and arranged by Eric Champion. This decent pop/dance song that includes rapping, was penned by Eric, Jeffrey Smith, and Stacy B. It's highly optimistic due to faith in God: "Problems, problems/Who's gonna solve them?/I know someone who can/Impossible is impossible/There's nothing that He can't do/If you'll just give it up/Let Him take control/The impossible will happen for you!" 'Follow You' is a pop/dance song of true spiritual devotion: "Nothing can stop this feeling that I feel inside, oh, no/It's like a blazing flame of fire shut up in my bones/Oh, there's a longing within my spirit to be more like You in every way/And no matter what the cost/That's what I'm willing to pay".
The adult contemporary ballad and title track, 'One Big World', follows. It's about the family of God and includes nice electric guitar work by Jerry McPherson. Here are some of the lyrics: "We share the same Father in heaven/The very same blood is flowing through our veins/We are one big world getting smaller/Living in harmony, living free". 'What in the World' is a pop/dance number about fulfilling the Great Commission: "Then all of a sudden it hit me like the stone cold truth/It's not a request, it's a command/Go to all nations, share the truth".
'Write On Me' is the song of one wanting to be used by God: "Write on me, sign Your Name on me/Lord, please take Your pen of love and write across my heart/Write a message that You want to share/And let me do my part". Next up is 'The Winning Side', a techno pop/dance track encouraging unity in the body of Christ: "It is time to join together and unite/We must tear down the walls built up around us that divide/Opinions cannot separate family ties/This army's eyes should be on the same prize".
'All of Me' is a slow adult contemporary ballad. It's a love song to God: "Lord, You gave the greatest gift to me/When You gave Your Son who died so unselfishly/And now I want to willingly give myself to You/For my everything is the least that I can do for You". The swell techno pop/dance song 'Final Frontier' follows. It points to our ultimate source of power: "Capturing thoughts, casting out fear/Conquering the final frontier.../Know where your strength comes from/Draw from His might/Cause He is the Son of God!"
'Havin' So Much Fun' will get your feet moving. It includes these wonderful words: "This joy I have, the world does not understand/Oh, no, even when bad times come, sure as the morning sun/I have security that He will rescue me/And turn bad times to good". Last up is 'Inside Out'. It is addressed to non-Christians: "Pleasure lasts for but a season/You got a short-term life without a reason/You could be a new creation/Take a stand on the Rock of salvation!"
ONE BIG WORLD is a fun album to listen to! I think it's aged pretty well. There are eight pop/dance tunes and two adult contemporary ones. The majority of the songs are fast paced. There are sweet, cheerful female vocals and soulful male vocals. Message-wise, it is clear Area Code wants to do God's will and has an overcoming attitude when it comes to spiritual warfare. Several of the songs talk about being a light for Christ and making disciples. A couple of the songs directly invite people to become Christians. Area Code also desires believers to be united worldwide. I'm rating this album 90% and recommending it to fans of Crumbacher, Kim Boyce, and California Dreams. So, what happened to the group members? Leanza Cornett became Miss Florida in 1992 and Miss America in 1993. She also worked on 'Entertainment Tonight', among other ventures. Jeff is now Senior Pastor at City of Life Church in Kissimmee, Florida. Lindsey Seals is Senior Associate/Music Pastor of NOW Church in Ocala, Florida. He is recording a live worship single on March 15/19. He says Stacy pastors with her husband in Canada. A second Area Code album was recorded but never released. I hope it is one day.
