Building 429 take their name from Ephesians 4:29 which reads: "Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up, according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen". SPACE IN BETWEEN US (2004, Essential) was their first full-length album on a major label. 'Glory Defined', the first track from it, became a #1 hit on several Christian charts and to this day remains a signature song for them. In 2005 the band won a Dove Award for 'New Artist of the Year'. Fast forward to 2008 and they released the self-titled BUILDING 429 (INO), which I will be reviewing here.
1. The album begins with 'Not Gonna Let You Down' written by Scott Faircloff, Jesse Garcia, Jason Roy, Michael Anderson, and Chris Stevens. It's a strong rock song of encouragement: "This is the hope that you've been longing to know/God is alive and He's never left you alone/So hold on through the tears.../Lift up your soul, don't you let go/Lift up your soul/Never let go".
2. 'End of Me' is a good rock song about spiritual surrender: "Once upon a time the story goes/I laid it all down and let it go/To lose it all, to lose it all/I took a step of faith and said goodbye/Everything I had I left behind to find true life/Well, all I longed for I found finally/At the end of me".
3. 'Erase' finds Claire Indie on cello and Zach Casebolt on violin. There is also some nice electric guitar work on this rock ballad that serves as a love song: "I can always go back to the place of you and me/And I will find you once again/Just like I remember/Time it will erase the world around us/But I will never be alone/Cause time can't erase love".
4. Tony Wood and James Rueger wrote 'Overcome'. It's a great modern praise and worship song: "Your heart was moved with such mercy/That in love You endured the cross/You've overcome the world/Rescued my soul/I don't have to worry/Cause whatever comes, You're in control/Forever I will worship You/I'm amazed by the things You have done/I am overcome".
5. 'Always' is one of two songs written solely by Jason Roy. This one is an adult contemporary ballad that begins with this emotional picture: "I was standing in the pouring rain one dark November night/Fighting off the bitter cold when she caught my eye/Her face was taught and her eyes were filled/And to my surprise she pulled out a photograph and my heart just stopped inside/She said 'He would have been three today/I miss his smile/I miss his face'".
6. Jason Roy and Sam Mizell wrote 'Shoulder', a melodic song about God's faithfulness: "And if you're on top of the world and you fall down/You're shaking inside and you can't find your ground/When you lose yourself, God will find you/Yeah, you need to know that the door is open/When you're broken/Come on, step on through".
7. 'Bring Me Back' serves as a sincere adult contemporary prayer: "Bring me back to the innocence of You/And bring me back to the first love I ever knew/Back to the way that it was when I was young/I'm tired of the mess that I've become/I want to see the world the way You do/So bring me back to You".
8. The uplifting pop song, 'Your Love Goes On', is up next: "One hope is never gonna change/One truth is certainty today/That Your love goes on/One promise covered all our shame/One Savior died to take the pain/And His love goes on and on.../Your love goes on/I see it and I feel it/We're not alone/I know that Your love goes on".
9. 'Coming Home' is a strong rock song told from the perspective of a prodigal son: "Every other road carried me away to anger/And every destination was just another point of danger, so/I'm coming home (2X)/There's nothing left to prove anymore/I'm coming home (2X)/So father, don't you close that door/Won't you wait for me when the sun goes down?/I'll be running straight to You/I'm coming home (2X)".
10. Last up is 'Oxygen (Bringing Me Back to Life)'. It's a cry to God for help: "And if I could breathe You in/I'll be sure to hold my breath/Cause You are like oxygen/Bringing me to life/So here I stand once again/Open me and come on in/Cause You are like oxygen/Bringing me to life".
I am quite impressed with this, my first album ever owned from Building 429. These songs offer hope and encouragement for those going through dark valleys and trials in life. These songs specifically point to God's faithfulness and love for us and encourage us to have an intimate and personal relationship with Him. That will not take all of our problems away, but it will help us navigate them. Jason Roy's lead vocals are quite good. On this album there are about an equal number of rock and adult contemporary songs. The band plays both equally well. I'm rating BUILDING 429 a 95% and recommending it to fans of Kutless and Jeremy Camp. For more info visit: www.building429.com and www.inorecords.com.
Brooke Nicholls is a Canadian worship leader/songwriter. Her bio states: "Seven years into a pop music career; three independent records, and many missed successes later, Brooke began looking backward, at all the heartache and disappointment, and saw very clearly the hand of God guiding her each step of the way-and so she wrote". The result was 2016's FOUND IN YOU. It was produced by her husband Steve Lensink. In the liner notes, Brooke writes: "Thanks Jesus-The reason I sing, the reason I worship, and the reason I write. Without You, my purpose in all of this wouldn't exist. Thank You Lord for calling me into the unknown with grace and everlasting love". In 2018 Brooke won two GMA Canada awards: 'New Artist of the Year' and 'Female Vocalist of the Year'. She has shared the stage with the likes of MercyMe, Love & The Outcome, and The Color.
1. First up is 'Beauty from Ashes'. It's one of five songs on this project that are solely penned by Brooke. This one is an adult contemporary ballad that speaks of God's transforming power: "Once empty, made whole/Rekindled light burns within my soul/You're near me, I'm restored/Hope alive, I will rise/Stronger than before/Beauty from ashes with peace that surpasses/You turned my mourning into joy/Hearts that are broken find healing unspoken/You turned my silence into song".
2. Brooke co-wrote the title track, 'Found in You', with fellow Canadian artist Dan Macaulay. It's a great light pop song about finding one's identity in Jesus: "I rest in Your truth, perfectly loved by You/No condemnation, my one salvation/I rest in Your truth, perfectly loved by You/No condemnation, Jesus I belong to You/And the truth's that I am found in You/Covered by unending love/I am enough".
3. Fanny J. Crosby and Phoebe P. Knapp wrote one of the Christian faith's most beloved hymns, 'Blessed Assurance'. The melody is toyed with on this version to modernize it a bit and it works well. It's still a song of personal testimony: "Perfect submission, all is at rest/I, in my Saviour, am happy and blessed/Watching and waiting, looking above/Filled with His goodness, lost in His love, oh His love, yeah/This is my story, this is my song/Praising my Saviour all the day long".
4. 'All I Need to Know' is a beautiful adult contemporary song of faith: "When the night is closing in/Fear begins to whisper I am not enough/Then the dawn begins to break/You have come to rescue/You have come to save/I will praise You in the dark/I'll praise You when it's hard/I will sing through all the pain/There's victory in Your Name/You, God-You never let me go/You God-Your strength is all I need to know".
5. 'Grace Today (A Prayer)' is a pretty easy listening number that declares reliance on God: "You speak to me so humbly/Reminding me You're all I need/Nothing else could ever satisfy/Grace today, I need Your grace.../Your power made perfect/When I'm weak You're strong/Your grace sufficient/I find my rest though a thorn in my flesh/Your grace sufficient".
6. The classic hymn 'How Great Thou Art' follows. Here it is essentially presented as a modern praise and worship song: "And when I think that God, His Son not sparing/Sent Him to die, I scarce can take it in/That on the cross, my burden gladly bearing/He bled and died, to take away my sin/Then sings my soul/My Saviour God to Thee/'How Great Thou art! How Great Thou art!'"
7. Next up is the album's lead single, 'Home', which hit #1 on Canada's largest Christian radio station. It's an adult contemporary song that invites people to come to Christ: "Come blind, come cripple/Come be made new/The gates of pearl are open/New life is waiting you/Oh, come thief, come beggar, come confess/Your history's rewritten/Yes, in heaven find your rest, living in eternity".
8. 'I Am Free' seems autobiographical and is moving: "Like a sheep gone astray/I had turned my own way/Wandering alone, I was lost/A slave to my shame/I could not make my own way/I never understood the cost/He came to pay my debt/He came to make a way/I am free/Bought by the blood of the King/Jesus laid His life down for me/Broke the chains that bound and rescued me/So that I could live free/I am free".
9. Last up is Eugene Monroe Bartlett's vintage praise and worship tune 'Victory in Jesus' which we used to sing at my home church a lot back in the day. Here, the song is presented in a tender, subdued, ballad manner. It is splendid and still reflects on Calvary and salvation: "Oh victory in Jesus, my Saviour forever/He sought me and He bought me with His redeeming blood/He loved me ere I knew Him/And all my love is due Him/He plunged me to victory beneath the cleansing flood".
FOUND IN YOU is comprised of mainly slower, quieter modern praise and worship and adult contemporary fare. The people you will hear on this record are: Brooke Nicholls (vocals, keys), Steve Lensink (guitars, vocals, keys, programming), Justin Brix (guitars), Jared Fox (guitars, programming), and Jacob Schrodt (drums). The message of this album is that it is only in Jesus Christ that we can find our true identity. Through Christ, the Father loves on us, gives us His grace, heals us, restores us, and gives us His joy. Songs of testimony are found on this project. Gratitude for the cross, the blood of Jesus being shed, salvation, God's keeping power even in the dark times, and His creation are expressed here. It is made clear that Heaven is our true home. I'm rating this project 85.5%. For more info visit: www.brookenicholls.ca or connect with her on Facebook.
Darlene Joyce Steinhardt, who we now know by her married name, Darlene Zschech, was born on September 8, 1965 in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia. At ten she was part of an Australian children's show 'Happy Go Round'. She has sung jingles for companies such as McDonald's, KFC, and Coca-Cola. She released her solo debut, MAKE THE CHOICE, in 1987. In 1993 she wrote her signature song 'Shout to the Lord' which became a massive praise and worship hit internationally. She joined the staff of Hillsong Church, and has went on to release a few more solo albums. The one I will be reviewing here is 2011's YOU ARE LOVE (Fair Trade/Columbia). In the liner notes Darlene writes: "These songs have been gathered, written, and recorded as I continue to walk this journey of loving and worshiping my King in every season...and as my heart discovers new ways and new melodies to sing a very earnest THANK YOU".
1. 'Under Grace' is one of seven songs penned solely by Darlene. David Davidson is responsible for the lovely string arrangements on this light pop song of personal testimony: "Under grace, You cover my failing again/Heavenly rain, You wash all my fear away, away/When I woke today, the sun was not hiding away/And hope filled my world once again/My life forever, changed by the Master/My life forever, given to praise/And I`m forever grateful for my salvation/Washing over all my sin/You are washing over all my sin".
2. Michael Gungor, Israel Houghton, and Darlene co-wrote 'Saving Me', a joyful, bouncy pop song featuring Darlene's daughter Zoe Z: "Love is saving me/Everything I am becoming free to love/You're saving me, Your love saving me/This beauty for ashes/Your love changing me/Your presence is calling me/Oh hear the sound of salvation".
3. The title track, 'You are Love', is a beautiful praise and worship anthem: "You are love/Love unfailing, love divine/You are love/Love that mends a heart like mine/You are love/Lifted high for all to see/You are love/The heavens sing of Your glory/You are love, You are love".
4. 'We are Your People' is a modern worship song of spiritual consecration: "We are Your people/We live to worship/We live to carry Your Name/Making a way by Your love/To move every mountain/We're living with healing and grace/We carry Your Name, Jesus". Electric guitar is put to good use here.
5. 'I Will Wait' runs over six and a half minutes long. It is one of two co-writes between Darlene and Israel Houghton. This wonderful adult contemporary ballad that builds in musical intensity is one of spiritual dedication: "Though the storms may rage around me/In the eye I will rest my soul/Lord I love You more than life itself/This I know/I will wait for You/I will wait/Lord, I'll wait for You/I will wait/In Your presence I surrender/Laying down all my foolish pride/As this deep calls unto deep/I will love You with all my life".
6. 'Beautiful' includes these calming words: "Oh peace, flood my soul/Be still my anxious heart/When I don't understand/You hold me/Peace, flood my soul/You're beautiful/Amazing love over me/You're beautiful/A love beyond all I see".
7. Next up is 'Hope for Humanity', which points everyone directly to Christ: "Jesus, Jesus/Saviour, Emmanuel/Oh Jesus, my Jesus/Healer, only You are/Hope for all humanity/Jesus, my Lord/The hope of the world is Jesus".
8. 'Faithful' is a great modern worship song: "You rescue me from enemy lines/You're reaching down from heaven's open skies/You run to my defense, You cover me/For when I am weak/You are strong/Savior, all my days in Your hands/Redeemer, every dream, every plan/Father, at Your word I respond/You are my God, You are faithful".
9. 'Cry of the Broken' includes a nice electric guitar solo and expresses gratitude for Calvary: "You were wounded for my sin and You were bruised for all my shame/You were broken for my healing/Only by the cross I am saved".
10. 'Face to Face' is an easy listening number that is a duet with Barry Southgate. Stu Garrard plays guitar while Tony Lucido plays bass. The song paints a beautiful picture with these words: "My searching heart was aching for a place to find a home/You knocked upon its doors, I asked You in/Oh, You loved me into life and all its fullness/Now I know that I am Yours forever/You are mine".
11. Last up is a Bonus Exclusive Australian Mix of 'Under Grace'.
Darlene Zschech's vocals are just lovely to listen to on YOU ARE LOVE. This album is comprised of mostly slow adult contemporary, modern worship, and light pop songs. Made clear is the fact that we all need to have a personal, intimate relationship with Jesus Christ. Also we should worship God. Our God is full of beauty, grace, mercy, love, healing, and holiness. He provided a way through the death and resurrection of Christ for us to receive forgiveness and salvation. In addition, we are reminded to share God and His message of love with people who don't yet know Him. The Cd booklet is nicely put together with some beautiful shots. I'm rating YOU ARE LOVE 95%. For more info visit: www.darlenezschech.com or connect with her on Facebook.
Steve Green was born on August 1st, 1956 in Portland Oregon. He spent a lot of his early life in Argentina as his folks were Baptist missionaries. He sang tenor on the first two albums by the Gaither Vocal Band and also sang lead on White Heart's self-titled debut album in 1982. Fast forward to 1984 and he put out his self-titled debut solo project (Sparrow). It was produced by Greg Nelson. In the liner notes Steve thanks: "My Lord, for the miracle of salvation and reconciliation, and for the promise of continuing the work that He started. Praise the Lord-Hallelujah!"
1. First up is 'Lift Up A Song', a short, but jubilant praise and worship song of victory: "Oh it is Jesus/The Lamb who has saved us/Who now has been raised and is seated in power/At the hand of the Father/Behold His presence/Comes to His temple/As the redeemed of the Lord join the dance of the passover Lamb (2X)".
2. Melodie Tunney, Dick Tunney, and Bev Darnall wrote the upbeat Christian pop song, 'Looking for the City' which anticipates heaven: "Since the moment of new birth/I've been a stranger on this Earth/An exile of promise living in this world/But with my new eyes of faith/I`m looking for the day/When I'll be gone from this house and at home with the Lord".
3. 'Bring Back the Glory' was penned by Bill and Gloria Gaither and Bill George. It's an inspirational ballad that begins by describing what it's like to be in a spiritual valley: "All the laughter is gone/And the sound of the song that we sang/Slowly faded away/Simple joys that we knew/When we walked close with You, hand in hand in the cool of the day/Are just memories/Or are they dreams?/Yet we hold to the hope/That the music will come back again/Bring back the Glory/Won't You show us what life is for?/Bring back the Glory/Make us open once more".
4. 'Proclaim the Glory of the Lord' is an upbeat praise and worship number that is definitely joyful: "He is our Messiah, our Savior and our King/Let all our voices join as one/And fill the Earth with singing/Glory to our God!/His greatness we applaud/Let every race on every shore/Proclaim the glory of the Lord!"
5. Dony McGuire and Reba Rambo co-wrote 'Wounded Soldier', an easy listening ballad about bearing one another's burdens: "Obeying their orders/They fought on the front lines for our King/Capturing the enemy's stronghold/Weakened from battle/Satan crept in to steal their lives/Don't let a wounded soldier die/Come let us pour the oil/Come let us bind the hurt/Let's cover them with a blanket of His love".
6. 'Lamb of Glory' is a moving praise and worship anthem centered around Calvary: "Precious Lamb of Glory/Love's most wondrous story/Heart of God's redemption of man/Worship the Lamb of Glory/On the cross God loved the world/While all the powers of hell were hurled/No one there could understand/The one they saw was Christ the Lamb".
7. Horns are arranged by Dan Cleary on 'Other Side of the Grave', a light Christian pop song of testimony: "We are alive in Christ/Dead to the world/Free from the sin that enslaves/In His death we died/In His life we live again/On the other side of the grave".
8. 'Broken and Spilled Out' is the longest song at over five minutes in length. It expresses gratitude for Calvary: "And though You were perfect and holy/You gave up yourself willingly/You spared no expense for my pardon/You were used up and wasted for me/Broken and spilled out/Just for love of me, Jesus/God's most precious treasure lavished on me".
9. Mark Gersmehl and Billy Smiley of White Heart co-wrote 'You Can Be (As Full as You Want to Be)' with Dwight Liles and Steve Green. This one's a peppy pop song about totally surrendering to Jesus: "You can be as full as you want to be/Look inside your heart and you will see/All the places that you need to give to Him/Open up your heart and you will see/You can be as full as you want to be/But it's up to you how much you let Him in/Let Him in".
10. Last up is 'People Need the Lord', one of two co-writes on the album by Greg Nelson and Phil McHugh. It would become one of Steve's signature songs over the years. This splendid adult contemporary ballad is about sharing the Gospel with the lost: "Every day they pass me by/I can see it in their eyes/Empty people filled with care/Headed who knows where/On they go through private pain/Living fear to fear/Laughter hides their silent cries/Only Jesus hears/People need the Lord (2X)/At the end of broken dreams/He's the open door/People need the Lord (2X)/When will we realize/People need the Lord".
STEVE GREEN has five fast songs and five slow ones on it. The main musical genres are light pop and inspirational, with touches of easy listening and adult contemporary mixed in. Praising and worshiping God for who He is and what He has done is prevalent on this album. Also prevalent is the story of how Christ came to earth to purchase our salvation at Calvary. God's love for us is great! A desire for intimacy with God is expressed. Also, we are encouraged to care for others, whether they be Christians or not. Steve's vocals are great as are the backing vocals. I'm rating this one a perfect 100%. For more info visit: www.stevegreenministries.org or look him up on Facebook.
In 1989 Word Records released the multi-artist project OUR HYMNS. It was executive produced by Loren Balman and Michael Blanton.
1. First up is a laid back version of 'Holy, Holy, Holy'. Michael W. Smith gives a nice vocal here. The Christ Church Choir and Donna McElroy are among the other singers on this essentially praise and worship classic: "Holy, holy, holy!/Lord God Almighty!/Early in the morning my song shall rise to Thee/Holy, holy, holy!/Merciful and mighty!/God in three Persons, blessed Trinity".
2. Amy Grant sings "'Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus', while Gary Chapman plays bass. Dulcimer and accordion are two of the other instruments used on this rootsy, Americana song about having faith: "'Tis so sweet to trust in Jesus/Just to take Him at His word/Just to rest upon His promise/Just to know/'Thus saith the Lord'.../I'm so glad I learned to trust Thee/Precious Jesus, Savior, Friend/And I know that Thou art with me/Wilt be with me to the end".
3. Bruce Carroll presents 'More Love to Thee' in an easy listening manner. It's a quiet, reverent song: "More love to Thee/More love to Thee!/Hear Thou the prayer I make on bended knee/This is my earnest plea/More love, O Christ to Thee/More love to Thee/More love to Thee!"
4. Christian dance queen Kim Boyce brings a slow R&B groove to 'I Must Tell Jesus'. It features Kirk Whalum on sax and Alphie Silas and Jean McRath on backing vocals. It's sung from the standpoint of one with an intimate relationship with Christ: "I must tell Jesus all of my troubles/He's a kind, compassionate friend/If I but ask Him, He will deliver/Make of my troubles quickly an end/O how the world to evil allures me!/O how my heart is tempted to sin!/I must tell Jesus, and He will help me/Over the world-victory to win".
5. Russ Taff delivers a soulful version of 'Near the Cross' which will lift your spirits. Julie Miller is a guest vocalist. Again, this song speaks of a personal relationship with Christ: "Jesus, keep me, keep me near the cross/For there is a precious, precious fountain/O it's free, free to all, a healing, cleansing stream/And it flows from Calv'ry's, Calv'ry's mountain/Always near, keep me Jesus/Let it, let it be my glory ever/Till my raptured soul, soul shall find/Rest, rest beyond the river".
6. Next up is a gem from Phil Keaggy. It's called 'Prelude: Bach's Bourree/O God, Our Help in Ages Past'. Smitty Price plays keyboards and Phil as usual is great on guitar. This track begins as a soothing instrumental and transitions into a light adult pop number. It includes these prayerful lyrics: "O God, our help in ages past/Our hope for years to come/Be Thou our guard while life shall last/And our eternal home/Our home (4X)/O God, lead us, guide us, we pray".
7. First Call presents 'O Sacred Head, Now Wounded'. It reflects on Calvary: "O sacred Head, now wounded/With grief and shame weighed down/Now scornfully surrounded/With thorns Thine only crown/How pale Thou art with anguish/With sore abuse and scorn/How does that visage languish/Which once was bright as morn!/What Thou, my Lord, hast suffered/Was all for sinners' gain/O mine was the transgression/But Thine the deadly pain". Tommy Sims plays bass.
8. Wayne Watson presents a great adult contemporary version of 'It is Well with My Soul'. These words anticipate heaven: "O then Lord, hurry the day when the faith shall be sight/The clouds be rolled back as a scroll/The trump shall resound and the Lord shall descend/Even so, it is well with my soul".
9. Take 6 put their cool acappella spin on 'The Savior is Waiting', a song of spiritual invitation: "The Savior is waiting to enter your heart/Why don't you let Him in? (2X)/There's nothing in this world to keep you apart/Why won't you answer Him? (2X)/Time after time He has waited before/And now He is waiting again/To see if you're willing to open the door/O how He wants to come in/If you'll take one look at the Savior, my friend/You'll find His arms open wide (2X)".
10. Last up is a rock battle cry from Petra, 'Onward, Christian Soldiers', which begins with these words: "Onward, Christian soldiers/Marching as to war/With the cross of Jesus/Going on before!/Onward, then, ye people/Join our happy throng/Blend with us your voices/In our triumph song". John Elefante and Dave Amado are on background vocals.
OUR HYMNS was a kind of who's who of Contemporary Christian musicians at the time. It was a forerunner to many multi-artist projects that would follow, such as the CITY ON A HILL series. On OUR HYMNS there are seven slower songs and three faster paced ones. Adult contemporary and easy listening are the main musical styles, but we are given samples of Americana, R&B, acapella, and rock music as well. Loving and trusting Jesus Christ and a gratitude for His sacrifice at Calvary are main themes. God's love for us and His holiness are made clear here. This is a pretty decent praise and worship record. I'm rating it 90%. For more info visit the artists' official web pages or connect with them on facebook/twitter.
Carman Domenic Licciardello was born on January 19, 1956 in Trenton, New Jersey. He became a Christian at an Andrae Crouch concert. In 1980 Carman released GOD'S NOT FINISHED WITH ME. The next year he toured with The Bill Gaither Trio. In 1982 Carman released a self-titled album, later known as SOME-O-DAT. The next year saw the release of the live album SUNDAY'S ON THE WAY. In 1984 Carman released COMIN' ON STRONG (Word/Epic), which I'll be reviewing here. Carman wrote all nine songs himself. The album was produced by Keith Thomas and executive produced by Lynn Nichols. Carman calls this album an assault on Satan's kingdom. Also, in the liner notes, he writes: "To Jim and Tammy Bakker and all my P.T.L. family for helping to keep my ministry alive through some real hard times. I love you all".
1. First up is the great Christian rock song 'Get Outta My Life'. Jon Goin provides a guitar solo while Bonnie Keen, Ellen Dockery, and Keith Thomas are on background vocals. Here, Carman rebukes the devil: "You've tried and you've lost/To be my boss/But devil your tricks are through/Put your sickness and pain on a hell bound train/Your cheating and your lying tongue too/I wanna make this very clear.../In the name of Jesus Christ/Get outta my life!"
2. 'This Thing is Real' is a cool sounding light pop song about an experience with the Holy Ghost: "Frightened in the back row, there I sat/I must admit I was nervous as a cat/Well, I felt the Spirit's groove/I then started to move/The Holy Ghost done showed me there where it's really at/Was it a dream?/Too real it seemed/But you oughta hear me scream/This thing is real (2X)/This automatic, all-fanatic blessing I feel/Well, you may not understand/Why we shout and clap our hands/It's only because this thing is real//Let me tell you how it feels/It's just like fire shut up in my bones!"
3. Next up is a lovely praise and worship ballad 'His Mercy Endures Forever'. Strings are arranged by Bergen White and Mark Casstevens plays acoustic guitar. The song is about redemption: "If your sin has dimmed the Spirit's light/There's forgiveness through the blood of Jesus Christ/He'll restore your torn and shattered life/That's the reason I can say/That I will confess/That my spirit's at rest/'Cause His mercy endures forever/Though my troubles won't cease/Yet my mind is at peace/Cause His mercy endures forever".
4. 'Spirit Filled Pizza' isn't something you can order at Pizza Hut or Domino's. Terry McMillan plays harmonica and percussion and Tom Hemby plays mandolin on this part spoken, part rock 'n' roll novelty track. It's about getting saved and witnessing-claiming other people's lives for Jesus Christ. Pentecostals will enjoy this one.
5. Keith Thomas plays synthesizers on the easy listening song 'Ask of Me'. It finds God speaking to His children lovingly: "Ask of Me/Don't turn to any other/Can't you see, you'll never be a bother?/Just believe that I can be your answer/My beloved child/Ask of Me/Don't search in other places/Can't you see that I'll be your oasis in that dry and thirsty world you live in?/I'll be your cup of water/If only you will give in and ask of Me".
6. 'Blessed Is He Who Comes' has a warm Caribbean feel to it and is definitely Scripturally based: "On a little donkey two-thousand years ago/Christ rode into Jerusalem/So all the world would know/He was fulfilling prophecy and everyone could sing/And worship their Savior, Messiah, and King/And they sang 'Hosanna, Hosanna/Blessed is He who comes in the Name of the Lord!/Hosanna, Hosanna/Blessed is He who comes in the Name of the Lord!'"
7. Kim Fleming, Patti Leatherwood, and Keith Thomas provide backing vocals on the pop/rock number 'He is The Son of God'. It shares the Gospel message: "He sacrificed His life on a cross for all our sin/So man could have communion with his Maker once again/After three short days He rose up from the dead/And proved to everyone they should have believed Him when He said/That He is the Son of God/Oh, He is the Son of God/Well, He is the Son of God/Oh, He is the Son of God/I don't care what you've been told or what lies you have bought/He is the Lord/The King of Kings/He is the Son of God".
8. 'Lazarus Come Forth' is one of Carman's famous storytelling songs. It imagines Lazarus, who has died on earth, hanging out with the saints who have gone before him, like Elijah, Moses, Solomon, and Daniel, at a testimony meeting. Carman utilizes humor to good effect here, and of course Jesus eventually raises Lazarus from the dead and he returns to earth to the delight of his sisters Mary and Martha. This one runs over six minutes long.
9. Last up is 'The Light of Jesus to the World' which is dedicated to Jimmy Swaggart. Don Potter plays guitar. This adult contemporary song is about fulfilling the Great Commission and begins with these words: "Who's gonna take the Shield of Faith out into the ghettos and witness to the street gangs of the night?/Who's gonna be the bold one to tell the pimps and prostitutes the affection that they crave is found in Christ?/Who'll take the Breastplate of Righteousness into this country's schools and preach holiness to every boy and girl?/Well, it's you and it's me who'll witness for the Savior/And be the Light of Jesus to the world".
COMIN' ON STRONG is an absolutely terrific album even though it only clocks in at 36 minutes and 35 seconds. The fast songs outnumber the slow ones, and the musical genres you will hear here are: pop/rock, easy listening, adult contemporary, and praise and worship. You will also find two of Carman's signature story telling type songs, one of which is the stellar 'Lazarus Come Forth'. This album makes it clear that God wants us to accept His salvation willingly and to experience the joy that brings. He wants us to be filled with His Holy Spirit and to come to Him with any needs we have. We are to praise Jesus, the Son of God, rebuke the devil in Christ's Name, and live victorious Christian lives. I'm rating this album a perfect 100%. For more info visit: www.carman.org.
Sara Lee Colbaugh was born on September 10, 1972. Today we know her as Sara Groves. According to Wikipedia.org: "Groves received her Bachelor of Science degree in history and English in 1994 from Evangel University, a private Christian university in Springfield, Missouri. Groves spent four years teaching high school in Rosemount, Minnesota before recording her first album, PAST THE WISHING, in 1998." Her second album was 2001's CONVERSATIONS. This was followed by her third album, ALL RIGHT HERE (2002, Sponge Records), which I'll be reviewing here. It was produced by Nate Sabin. In the liner notes Sara writes: "Thank You Lord for the opportunity to feel all these things, communicate them and watch all of this grow under Your care".
1. First up is 'Less Like Scars', one of three songs co-written by Sara and Nate Sabin. Jefferey Roach plays piano and organ on this adult pop song about God's goodness: "And I feel You here/And You're picking up the pieces/Forever faithful/It seemed out of my hands, a bad situation/But You are able/And in Your hands the pain and hurt/Look less like scars and more like character".
2. Lori Sabin and Ashleigh Friend provide backing vocals on 'Every Minute', an easy listening ballad about companionship: "And I can't figure out why you want me around/I'm not the smartest person I have ever met/But somehow that doesn't matter/No, it really never mattered to you at all/And at the risk of wearing out my welcome/At the risk of self-discovery/I'll take every moment/And every minute that you give me".
3. 'Fly' is an easy listening ballad as well. It is dedicated to Sara's husband Troy. John Catchings is responsible for strings. Here are some of the lyrics: "Speak in a summer tone, pause in the afterglow/Tenderly whisper my name/Tell me once again why I am your bride/So I can fly (2X)/Pause in your busy day, look extra long my way/Wink at me across the room/Kiss me longer/Touch my arm when I am by your side/So I can fly" (2X).
4. Jonell Moser and Pierce Pettis co-wrote 'You Did That For Me', a slow country song that references Calvary: "Man of sorrows, well acquainted with grief/Drug down to the city dump/Spread eagle on a cross beam/Propped up like a scarecrow/Nailed like a thief/There for all the world to see". Phil Madeira plays national slide guitar.
5. 'Just One More Thing' is one of eight songs Sara wrote alone on this project. Dave Jensen plays trumpet on this groovy pop commentary on our always busy society: "There's always just one more thing/There's always another task/There's always I just have one more small favor to ask/And everything is urgent and everything is now/I wonder what would really happen if I stopped somehow".
6. Next up is the title track 'All Right Here'. It's a pleasant country/pop number. In the chorus, Sara comments on herself: "And I'm not God, I'm a girl/I confess that I don't have a sea of forgetfulness/No, it's all right here/It makes me stronger, it makes me wince/Makes me think twice when I pick my friends/Oh, it's all right here, it's all right here".
7. 'Remember Surrender' feature Nate and Lori Sabin on backing vocals. It's a beautiful song with a beautiful message: "Remember surrender/Remember the rest/Remember that weight lifting off of your chest/And realizing that it's not up to you and it never was/Remember surrender/Remember relief/Remember how tears rolled down both of your cheeks/As the warmth of a heavenly Father came closing in".
8. Marc Anderson plays bouzouki and Nate Sabin the flute on the over five minute long 'Maybe There's A Loving God'. It's sung from the perspective of a seeker: "I'm trying to work things out/I'm trying to comprehend/Am I the chance result/Of some great accident?/I hear a rhythm call me/The echo of a grand design/I spend each night in the backyard/Staring up at the stars in the sky.../Maybe this was made for me/For lying on my back in the middle of a field/Maybe that's a selfish thought/Or maybe there's a loving God".
9. Matt Pierson plays upright bass on the 'This Peace', a calming song: "No time to grab the camera, no time to write it down/Just time enough to breathe it in/And linger/It's a whisper in my ear/It's a shiver up my spine/It's the gratitude I feel for all that's right/It's a mystery appeal that's been granted me tonight/This peace (2X)".
10. On 'Tornado' Phil Madeira plays the National Reso-Phonic Baritone Guitar and Peter Ostroushko plays the fiddle. This is a folk song of determination: "And every time I find healing, you're making a new mess/And I am learning the real meaning of forgiveness/And it hurts when you hit at the hearts of the ones I love/When everything you touch is rubble and dust/And it gets so hard to know how to trust/But I will not let that bitter root grow/I will not let it, no, no/But, it gets so hard (oh)".
11. 'First Song that I Sing' was inspired by C.S. Lewis' 'Mere Christianity'. This uplifting adult contemporary tune includes claps by Nate Sabin and Sara, and these words: "I want to praise You/I need to praise You/Let the first song that I sing/Be praises to my God and King/Before the curtains part/Before my day is starting/Before I make up the bed/Before the snooze alarm reminds me that it's morning".
12. Sara dedicates 'You Cannot Lose My Love' which runs just over 2.5 minutes to her son Kirby: "You will lose your confidence/In times of trial, your common sense/You may lose your innocence/But you cannot lose my love". Sara plays piano here.
13. Last up is 'Jesus, You're Beautiful' penned by Nate Sabin. It's a light praise and worship song: "Sweeter than spring time/Purer than sunshine/Ever my song will be/Jesus, You're beautiful to me/Oh Lord, You are so beautiful".
ALL RIGHT HERE is a lengthy album at 57 minutes and 3 seconds. Sara's vocals are smooth and gentle to listen to. There are eight slow songs and five faster ones presented. Easy listening and pop are the main genres here, with adult contemporary, country, and folk also being utilized. An appreciation and love for family and friends is forefront on this project. Also, we learn that God wants to heal us. He will help us grow and give us His peace if we only surrender to Him. We are also reminded to slow down sometimes as society is always in a rush. In addition there are two praise and worship tunes. I'm rating this album 87.5%. For more info visit: www.saragroves.com.
Mandisa Lynn Hundley was born on October 2, 1976 in Citrus Heights, California. On the fifth season of the reality tv show 'American Idol', she finished ninth. She released her first full-length album TRUE BEAUTY in 2007. It debuted at #1 on the Top Christian Albums chart and featured the hit single 'Only the World'. Fast forward to 2011 and she released her fourth full length album, WHAT IF WE WERE REAL (Sparrow). It was produced by Christopher Stevens, David Garcia, Dan Muckala, and Chance Scoggins. The album peaked at #2 on the Billboard Christian Albums chart. In the liner notes, Mandisa writes: "Jesus, thank You for not leaving me as I was at the beginning of this album process; low on hope, dejected, a bit jaded, and feeling far from You. You allowed me to come to You just as I was...and it wasn't pretty."
Starting things off is the album's first single, 'Stronger', written by Christopher Stevens, David Garcia, and Ben Glover. It peaked at #1 on the Hot Christian Songs chart. It's an upbeat pop song of encouragement: "Oh, don't hang your head/It's gonna end/God's right there/Even if it's hard to see Him/I promise you that He still cares/When the waves are taking you under/Hold on just a little bit longer/He knows that this is gonna make you stronger, stronger/The pain ain't gonna last forever/And things can only get better/Believe me/This is gonna make you stronger". The title track, 'What If We Were Real' was penned by Cindy Morgan, Mandisa, and Ben Glover. Blanca Callahan is a backing vocalist on it. It's an energetic pop/rock song encouraging transparency: "I'm over hiding my tears/I think I'm gonna let 'em go/I'm over acting so strong when I ain't even in control.../We keep trying to make it look so nice/And we keep hiding what's going on inside/But what if I share my brokenness?/What if you share how you feel?/What if we weren't afraid of this crazy mess?/What if we were real?"
'These Days' is a catchy pop tune that takes a positive approach to life: "I can see a silver lining/When the sun's not shining/Even when You choose to bring the rain/Oh, but there's freedom believing and trusting Your leading/'Cause You're Lord of all my joy/And all my pain". 'The Truth About Me' is an adult contemporary ballad that contrasts how God sees us with how we see ourselves: "You say lovely, I say broken/I say guilty, You say forgiven/I feel lonely/You say You're with me/We both know it would change everything/If only I believed the truth about me".
'Say Goodbye' points to God as the one who can give us a new and fresh start in life: "There is grace that you can't imagine/There is love that you can't outrun/There is peace you can hold on to/When your world is coming undone/You don't have to give in to the fear/Don't have to let your story stop here/And when that hand tries to pull you back/You don't have to go back (2X).../Jesus came to take it all away". 'Good Morning' is the album's third single and features TobyMac on a nice rap bit. This is a contagious pop/dance track that should get you up and out of bed in the morning, and moving: "It's a good morning/Wake up to a brand new day/This morning/I'm stepping/Stepping on my way/Good morning/You give me strength/You give me just what I need/And I can feel the hope that's rising in me/It's a good morning".
'Waiting for Tomorrow' is the album's second single. It was penned by Ben Glover and Jeff Pardo and peaked at #9 on the Hot Christian Adult Contemporary chart. It begins with words believers in Christ will relate to: "Maybe tomorrow I'll start over/Maybe tomorrow I will finally change my ways/Said the same thing yesterday/Don't know why I'm so afraid/To let You in, to let You win/To let You have all of me". 'Just Cry' is the album's longest track (4:35). It was written by Mandisa, Tony Wood, and Ronnie Freeman. It's a sentimental ballad that builds in intensity: "You don't need to run/You don't need to speak/Baby, take some time/Let those prayers roll down your cheek/It may be tomorrow, you'll be past the sorrow/But tonight, it's alright/Just cry".
'Temporary Fills' is the album's shortest song (2:44). It's a good rock track about a gal who knows what she wants: "They say you gotta buy this, wear this, drive that car/'Cause that's the kind of thing that makes you who you are.../No more temporary fills/I want a love that's real/Take everything I have and fill me up inside/I'm done looking for the quick fix/Jesus, Your love is all I ever need/No more temporary fills". 'Free' features Missi Hale and Mandisa on backing vocals. It's an upbeat R&B number of personal testimony: "Who the Son sets free/Best believe is free indeed/Gonna take it to the streets/My Lord delivered me/Who the Son sets free/Best believe is free indeed/Gonna dance and shout and scream/I'm free indeed". Last up is the melodic, modern praise and worship song 'Lifeline': "You are my lifeline/You are my rescue/Strength in my weakness/Light in my darkness/You are my safety/Lifter of my head/The air that I need when I can't seem to breathe in/You are my lifeline (2X)".
WHAT IF WE WERE REAL is mainly an album of faster paced Christian pop songs. Other musical genres included are adult contemporary, R&B, and rock. There are a couple of slower tracks, but they are the exception. Learning how to see ourselves as God sees us is a prominent theme. He sees us as His beloved children and wants to give us a fresh start in life. If we will accept Jesus as Savior and Lord, He will make us into new creations. We can have a positive outlook on life. God is always with us, even in the tough times, making us stronger. Mandisa encourages us to be real with God and with each other and to take off the masks we wear so to speak. I'm rating this album a 95% and recommending it to fans of the powerhouse vocals and pop sounds of Natalie Grant. For more info visit: www.mandisaofficial.com or connect with her on Facebook.
Gregory Alan Long was born on Dec 12, 1966 in Aberdeen, South Dakota. He began singing at his Dad's revivals when he was just 2 according to Wikipedia.org. Greg's first two solo albums were CROSS MY HEART (1994) and DAYS OF GRACE (1996). His #1 hits include 'How Long?', a duet with Margaret Becker, and 'Love the Lord'. Greg's third of five solo albums was JESUS SAVES (1998, Myrrh). It's what I'll be reviewing here. In the liner notes, Greg writes: "I hope these songs will draw you closer to Jesus".
Starting things off is 'We Love You Jesus', written by Greg and John Elefante. Background vocalists are: John Elefante, Greg, Jim and Kim Thomas, Jeni Varnadeau, and Sara Paulson. This adult contemporary praise and worship song is almost five minutes long and includes these words: "We love You, Jesus with all our hearts/Our Lord and Savior/You've been so good to us/We love You, Jesus/You are the light in the dark/We'll follow You anywhere/We love You, Jesus". 'First Greatest Wonder' is an adult contemporary ballad of gratitude for God's mercy and love: "It took a heart that was torn from within/Healed the scars and made me feel like a child once again/It saw the hurt, felt the pain, knew the cost/Took the blame just to say/The debt was paid and I was free/So it sure seems like to me/That mercy has to be/The first greatest wonder of the world".
Don Koch, Joe Beck, and Bryan White wrote 'Jesus Saves'. Phil Madeira plays B-3 and a choir called Greg O'Quin 'n Joyful Noyze appears on this fast paced pop/dance track that witnesses: "Jesus saves, I know that Jesus saves, oh/Jesus saves, I know that Jesus saves/There's nothing more that I can say/It's just enough that Jesus saves/He came for the lost and the hurting/Oh and He died for the broken souls/And He lives for the ones who are searching/We've gotta let 'em know". On 'Mercy Said No' Dennis Dearing plays a guitar solo and strings are arranged and conducted by Carl Marsh. It's a lovely adult contemporary ballad of testimony: "Mercy said no/I'm not gonna let you go/I'm not gonna let you slip away/You don't have to be afraid/Mercy said no/Sin will never take control/Life and death stood face to face/Darkness tried to steal my heart away/Thank You, Jesus/Mercy said no/And now when heaven looks at me/It's through the blood of Jesus".
Two of the backing vocalists on 'Man of Sorrows' are Billy Gaines and Nicole Coleman Mullen. It's a soulful song about what Jesus endured to provide us with salvation: "Isaiah's word was true/They stripped You naked/As the day that you were born/And then they laughed at You/And spit into Your face/Your body bleeding/From the whippings and the beatings/As they led You to that crucifying place/You were the man, man of sorrows". 'Everything is Gonna Be All Right' finds Greg fully relying on God even in the dark times: "The Lord is kind/I know He's gonna see me through/Everything is gonna be all right/I'm holding onto the mercy and truth of His plan/I'll weather this storm/Safe in the warmth of my Father's hand/But through the healing stages/I will stand courageous/Though the hurting rages in me".
'Prove that by Me' was penned by Jack Wesley Routh and Randy Sharp and features backing vocals by Russ Taff and Chris Harris. It's an easy listening song that finds God speaking to us: "If the stars lead you astray/And the winds don't hear your plea/I still believe you'll find your way/Back to Me". Greg, Joel Lindsey, and David Browning wrote 'Life', an upbeat pop song of testimony: "Everyday is amazing now/When I think of how He turned my life around/Yeah, I can face what the day will bring/Knowing God is holding everything in His hands/I'm a man who knows the meaning of forgiveness".
'More Like Jesus' is a terrific inspirational ballad that reveals Greg's heart: "I just wanna be more like Jesus/A little more of Him today/A little less of me/I just wanna be more like Jesus/To love the way that He loved me/So unselfishly/Oh, I just wanna be more like Jesus". Last up is 'I Saw An Angel Tonight', written by Chris Harris, Phil Madeira, and Jim Daneker. It's almost five and a half minutes and finds Eric Silver on violin and Susan Demur on backing vocals. It's a peaceful song that seems addressed to one's parent (s): "You prayed for me every night when I was only a child/I can't imagine growing up without your love/Now I believe in the truth 'cause I saw Jesus in you/And I'm so thankful/For the way you brought me up".
JESUS SAVES clocks in at 45 minutes and 21 seconds. Genre-wise this is a mostly adult contemporary and pop album, but there is one rock song and there are a couple easy listening numbers. There are six slow songs and four faster ones. A love for and gratitude towards God come through loud and clear. God is good, loving, merciful, helps us through life's storms, and provides us with salvation through the cross. In return Greg sings of his love for God and his desire to be more Christ-like. There's also a great song about how parents can nurture, pray for and with, and influence their children to grow up and choose Christ as their own Lord and Saviour. I'm recommending this album to fans of Clay Crosse and rating it 96%. For more info visit: www.greglong.com and/or connect with him on Facebook.
Country and Western singer Dolly Rebecca Parton was born on January 19, 1946 in Sevier County, Tennessee. She released her debut solo album, HELLO, I'M DOLLY, in 1967. Her best known songs include: 'Coat of Many Colors', 'Jolene', 'I Will Always Love You', and '9 To 5'. In 2010 Sony Music released THE GOSPEL COLLECTION. Several of the songs on it are noted to have been recorded prior to 1972.
Starting things off is 'God's Colouring Book'. Dolly wrote it, originally recorded it in 1971, and it was released in 2007. It's a pretty folk song that nature lovers will appreciate: "A yellow dandelion, pretty evergreen/And some red and orange flowers growing wild along the stream/As I looked around me/The more that I did look/The more I realized that I was viewing God's colouring book". 'Sacred Memories' is a sentimental, upbeat country and western song: "Sacred memories often take me to the place where I grew up/And that little country church that I love so much/I used to go there every time that old church bell would ring/And I remember how I loved the songs we used to sing".
A rockabilly version of 'Comin' For to Carry Me Home' follows. It anticipates our eternal heavenly home as Christians: "I looked over Jordan and what did I see/Coming for to carry me home?/I saw a whole band of angels coming after me/Coming for to carry me home/Swing low, sweet chariot/Coming for to carry me home". A traditional version of the classic hymn 'How Great Thou Art' is up next. It begins with church bells and includes great backing vocals. Heaven is again anticipated: "When Christ shall come with shouts of acclamation/To take me home, what joy shall fill my heart/Then I shall kneel in humble adoration and then proclaim/'My God, how great Thou art!'"
'Golden Streets of Glory' is one of seven tracks solely penned by Dolly on this compilation project. This cheery old country song looks forward to the afterlife: "And when I've reached my journey's end/And if I'm worthy to go in/Golden streets of glory, I'll walk on/And the golden streets of my new home/Will lead me up to the Master's throne/With the angel band I'll sing/'Glory to His Name/Oh, holy, holy!'" 'I Believe' is a powerful, inspirational anthem of faith: "I believe above the storm the smallest prayer will still be heard/I believe that Someone in the great somewhere hears every word/Every time I hear a newborn baby cry/Or touch a leaf or see the sky/Then I know why I believe".
Dolly co-wrote 'Preacher Tom' with Porter Wagoner. It's a toe-tapping country and western tribute to an old-school country preacher: "Your smile is like the sunshine bringing warmth and joy to others/And love controls your understanding heart/And the message that you spread is just like water to the thirsty/A beacon that keeps shining through the dark/So Preacher Tom, come on preach/Let the One of which you speak have His way/Let His precious will be done". 'The Seeker' has a cool vibe sound-wise. The lyrics are prayerful: "I am a seeker, a poor sinful creature/There is no weaker than I am/ I am a seeker and You are a teacher/You are a reacher, so reach down/Reach out and lead me/Guide me and keep me in the shelter of Your care each day".
Dolly and Dorothy Jo Hope wrote a newer song called 'Would You Know Him (If You Saw Him)'. It's a great country ballad: "He might be a little orphan, he might be a crippled man/Oh, would you know Him if you saw Him?/Would you offer Him your hand?/God is all around us/He's never far away". The country and western classic 'Wings of A Dove' was penned by Bob Ferguson and Ferlin Husky. It has a simple, but wonderful chorus: "On the wings of a snow-white dove/He sends His pure, sweet love/A sign from above/On the wings of a dove".
'The Master's Hand' is a pleasant country song about God's goodness and faithfulness: "The Master's hand is always held out to us/And it will lead us to the promised land/And the evil of this world cannot outdo us/If we are holdin' to the Master's hand (2X)". 'Everything is Beautiful (In Its Own Way)' is a ballad nature lovers will again appreciate: "When I see a fountain flow from a mountain/Or see April showers bring flowers to May/I can't help but ponder /Life is such a wonder/And everything's beautiful in its own way.../What my eyes can't behold/Can't be bought or sold/And everything's beautiful in its own way".
A fast-paced duet with Porter Wagoner, 'Daddy Was An Old Time Preacher Man', follows. Here's verses one and two: "Daddy was an old time preacher man/He preached the Word of God throughout the land/He preached so plain a child could understand/Yes, Daddy was an old time preacher man/He told the people of the need to pray/He talked about God's wrath and judgment day/He preached about that great eternity/He preached hell so hot that you could feel the heat". 'There' includes kids on backing vocals as well as adults. It's a great inspirational song: "A city of riches beyond comprehension/Take me there/Won't you take me there?/Streets are of gold, gates of pearl, brilliant mansions/Take me there/Won't you take me there?"
Tommy Tomlinson wrote 'Heaven's Just a Prayer Away', a gospel music infused song about having a relationship with Christ: "And if you go/If you go to a church on Sunday/You get down on your knees and pray/And give your heart and your soul to Jesus/Heaven's just a prayer away". 'Letter to Heaven' is a bittersweet folk ballad about a little girl hit and killed by a vehicle, reuniting her in Heaven with her Mother who'd gone before her.
'Lord Hold My Hand' is a pretty ballad that serves as a prayer: "Hold my hand, let's not lose my way/Hold my hand and lead me home/Guide each step that I might take/Hold my hand and keep me strong/And let the path I walk be straight/Let the deeds I do be kind". Last up is 'Yes I See God', written by Dorothy Jo Hope. It's a song of testimony: "Yes, I see God where the mountains reach the sky/And I see God when the eagle starts to fly/I see God in a little baby's smile/I see God and He makes my life worthwhile".
On THE GOSPEL COLLECTION, the songs are mostly old country and western in nature, with some folk and gospel influences. Dolly's voice is strong and distinct. Some may find it a bit too shrill, but overall I didn't. There are nine fast songs and nine slow songs presented here. Heaven is most certainly a main theme (being a place where peace, joy, and love never cease). Appreciating God's handiwork in creation is another recurring theme. We are also encouraged to give our hearts and souls fully to Jesus. I'm rating this project 98%. For more info visit: www.dollyparton.com or look her up on Facebook.
Back in 1959 and 1962 Johnny Cash released his first two gospel albums. HYMNS and HYMNS FROM THE HEART were both issued by Columbia Records. My Dad had both of them on LP back in the day. Fast forward to 2016 and both albums were combined on the cd HYMNBOOK (Simply Media TV). That is what I will be reviewing here.
1. It Was Jesus-I really like the call and answer style chorus: "Who was it everybody?" "It was Jesus", repeated.
2. I Saw a Man-A slow, old country song of testimony: "My life, my heart I gave/My soul was in His care".
3. Are All the Children In?-A sentimental, talking song. Quite good, reminds me of 'Christmas As I Knew It'.
4. The Old Account-One of his best upbeat gospel songs. Celebrates our redemption!
5. Lead Me Gently Home-A pleasant country ballad requesting Divine guidance.
6. Swing Low, Sweet Chariot-A gospel standard. I prefer Larry Norman's version.
7. Snow in His Hair-A moving story song about a prodigal son returning to Daddy.
8. Lead Me, Father-A dreary song. It drags on.
9. I Call Him-A faster song about God's faithfulness. "And I call him when I'm troubled and I call Him when I'm weak/And He always pulls me through my troubles some way and I believe He'll be there".
10. These Things Shall Pass-A good reminder our troubles are temporary :)
11. He'll Be a Friend-Not my fave song about Noah. That'd be 'Noah Found Grace'. Still, this one's alright.
12. God Will-I like the opening line: "God will walk with me down the streets where no one else will walk".
13. He'll Understand and Say Well Done-I like the old school backing vocals here.
14. God Must Have My Fortune Laid Away-Reflects on why some are rich and some poor.
15. When I've Learned Enough to Die-A forgettable track.
16. I Got Shoes-A real toe-tapper about our eternal home as Christians! Great backing vocals.
17. Let the Lower Lights Be Burning-Nice organ intro. A great song about rescuing lost souls!
18. If We Never Meet Again-A pretty, mid-tempo number about heaven.
19. When I Take My Vacation in Heaven-The weakest lyrically so far. Heaven won't be a vacation. A vacation implies we'll be going back to our daily toils at some point.
20. When He Reached Down His Hand For Me-There's much truth here: "Once my soul was astray from the heavenly way/I was wretched and vile as could be". Even as believers we still sin.
21. Taller Than Trees-A tad on the cheesy side lyrically.
22. I Won't Have to Cross Jordan Alone-A strong song! We need not fear death! Hallelujah!
23. My God is Real (Yes, God is Real)-A child-like song of testimony. "God is real for I can feel Him in my heart".
24. These Hands-Forgettable to me.
HYMNBOOK clocks in at a good length of 54:03. Stylistically, this is straight up old country gospel music. There are twelve fast and twelve slow songs here, so it's a good mix! Heaven is the most dominant theme. It is there where God will tell us He's pleased with us and give us our rewards. Temptations and troubles will be a thing of the past! A gratitude for salvation is the next most common theme. This is followed by songs that ask for and show thankfulness for God's guidance, strength, and overall presence. 'Snow in His Hair' is a great story song. I'm rating this two record collection 85%. For more info visit: www.johnnycash.com or connect with his fans on Facebook.
Darlene Joyce Zschech was born on September 8, 1965 in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia. She was the worship pastor at Hillsong Church from 1996-2007. Her debut solo album, MAKE THE CHOICE, came out in 1987. Then in 1993 she released PEARLS & GOLD. Fast forward to 2003 and she released her third solo album, KISS OF HEAVEN (INO Records). Producers on the album are Darlene, David Holmes, and James Roche, while the executive producer is Darlene's husband Mark. In the liner notes to the album Darlene writes: "I pray you can sense, throughout these songs, my love and devotion to my Lord and Saviour, for without Him, I have no song and no reason to sing...Psalm 145".
1. Starting things off is 'Pray', one of three songs solely penned by Darlene. It's an upbeat Christian pop song that features the Born Again Choir and beseeches God: "We pray, pray/Open the windows of Heaven on us/Today, we pray/Pour out Your Spirit/Your wonders on Earth/We come on bended knees/We bring an offering/Lead us in Your way/Everlasting, oh yeah/Every heart of every man will pray Your will be done".
2. 'Heaven on Earth' is one of several co-writes by Darlene and David Holmes. It includes a guest vocal by Miriam Webster and uses strings. This one is a beautiful adult contemporary song of testimony: "Whom You set free is free indeed/I've got the strength of my God in me/Well, You restored my dignity/Oh, completely, You love me/Well, if they only knew how You've mended my broken wings/Now I'm flying/Your love is Heaven on Earth/I'll shout it out to all the world/There's no doubt my greatest dream/It has come true/Just to be loved by You".
3. 'Faithful' is a praise and worship ballad: "All Heaven and Earth will worship You/Singing 'Holy is the Lord'/A hymn of pure adoration/As we see Your wonderful Kingdom come/Your favour is surrounding me/Your Word is lighting my way/You're faithful to deliver me/Your glorious love leads the way to salvation".
4. 'Beautiful Saviour' is based on the 1677 hymn 'Fairest Lord Jesus'. It features the Born Again Choir and includes these lyrics: "Beautiful Saviour, Lord of the nations/Son of God and Son of man/Glory and honour, praise, adoration/Now and forevermore be Thine/Glory to God in the highest (2X)/Emmanuel/Glory to God in the highest".
5. Jack Jones plays guitar on 'Everything About You'. It's a lovely adult contemporary song about Darlene's husband Mark: "I love everything about you, everything you are/You'd catch a falling star if I asked you/And I couldn't live a single day without you/You hold me in your arms/And once again I know that I'm the only one for you".
6. Steve McPherson, Andy Sorenson, and Dee Uluirewa sing backing vocals on 'Promise', a pop/rock song of spiritual dedication: "Hope of the world, oh I come to You/Light in the darkness/You're shining Your heart in me/I promise, I promise/To eternity I'll live and die to know You, to love You/For I've found what I've been looking for".
7. 'Irresistable' was previously on the live 2001 Hillsong album YOU ARE MY WORLD. It's a pretty praise and worship ballad that includes these lyrics: "Whenever I call You're there/Redeemer and Friend/Cherished beyond all words/This love never ends/Morning by morning/Your mercy awakens my soul".
8. Darlene and David Moyes wrote the title track 'Kiss of Heaven'. James Roche is responsible for programming, loops and editing on this cheery pop song: "My Jesus, dream maker/My Jesus, life giver/I'm living under the kiss of heaven/And I'll never ever be the same again/I'm singing a new song in the presence of my King/Giving You my heart/That is all that I can bring/You lit a fire inside of me/That I thought would never burn again".
9. 'Everlasting' was written by Darlene, David Holmes, and Marty Sampson. It's an easy listening prayer: "Lord, I want to know You more/Follow You with all my heart and soul/Lord, I want to know Your voice/Lead me in Your way everlasting/Show me Your ways/Teach me and guide me in Your truth, my Saviour".
10. The now praise and worship super-classic 'Shout to the Lord' originally appeared on the 1994 live Hillsong album PEOPLE LIKE US. Here this anthem runs six and a half minutes and includes a guest vocal by Ternae Jordan, strings, and The Born Again Choir. Here is the wonderful chorus: "Shout to the Lord, all the earth/Let us sing/Power and majesty/Praise to the King/The mountains bow down and the seas will roar at the sound of Your Name/I sing for joy at the work of Your hands/Forever I'll love You, forever I'll stand/Nothing compares to the promise I have in You".
11. 'Dreams' is an adult contemporary ballad that finds Darlene desiring intimacy with God: "Take this heart of mine/You've captured me/I'm so in love with You/My destiny defined is spending every moment just to know You/I need to know You more/You're my world/You're my heart's desire".
12. Amy Zschech provides a guest vocal on 'Wonderful You' and Nabi Terrigal Gang provide handclaps. This one is an adult pop song of testimony: "Oh, You opened up my heart to see a new day/Now this fire within me needs to praise/I once was lost but then You found me/I'm in Your arms to stay/How I love You, wonderful You/Like a dream You came, let me live again/Oh, now there's You, beautiful You/I need forever to know Your way".
13. 'Thankful' is a worshipful ballad of gratitude: "To the cross I come again/I'm so thankful, I'm thankful/Your mercy over me again/I'm so thankful, living God/I wanna thank You living God/In the light of day/Your truth defines my way/And You call me Yours/I'm forever Yours".
14. Last up is a cover of U2's 'Walk On' from their 2000 album ALL THAT YOU CAN'T LEAVE BEHIND. Martin Smith of Delirious? fame is guest vocalist on this great pop/rock song of encouragement: "Walk on, walk on/Stay safe tonight/Well, I know it aches/And your heart it breaks/You only take so much/Walk on, walk on/Home...hard to know what it is if you never had one/Home...I can't say where it is, but I know I'm going/Home...that's where the heart is".
KISS OF HEAVEN is a lengthy album, coming in at 66 minutes and 37 seconds. Darlene's vocals are absolutely marvelous on this project. God is celebrated for His love, power, glory, salvation, faithfulness, and creation. Darlene is not shy about her love for God or her desire for His Spirit and to follow Him. The love song to her husband, 'Everything About You' is just terrific, and a 'Walk On' is a great mainstream song of encouragement to keep on keeping on. Genre-wise you will find several praise and worship songs here, several pop songs, and an adult contemporary song. The slow songs far outweigh the fast ones. There are several beautiful pics of Darlene included with the cd. I'm rating KISS OF HEAVEN 96.5%. For more info visit: www.darlenezschech.com or connect with her on Facebook.
Amy Lee Grant was born on November 25, 1960 in Augusta, Georgia. She is the youngest of four sisters. She released her self-titled debut album in 1977. It was 1983 when she put out her first holiday project, A CHRISTMAS ALBUM, which features such now classics as 'Tennessee Christmas', 'Emmanuel', and 'Heirlooms'. In 1992 she put our her second holiday album, HOME FOR CHRISTMAS, which included the super popular 'Breath of Heaven (Mary's Song)', and 'Grown-Up Christmas List'. Fast forward to 1999 and she released her third holiday effort, A CHRISTMAS TO REMEMBER (Myrrh), which I will be reviewing here. It peaked at #1 on the Top Contemporary Christian Albums chart and at #36 on the Billboard 200.
1. First up is the title track, 'A Christmas to Remember', written by Amy, Chris Eaton, and Beverly Darnall. Michael Omartian plays piano and Beverly Darnall provides vocal harmony on this pleasant adult contemporary album opener: "Setting our hopes on a big snow tonight/We'll wake up to a world of white/And it's gonna be a Christmas to remember/Light up the fire, play some Nat King Cole/Always sentimental and don't you know that/It's gonna be a Christmas to remember".
2. Roger Cook and Wayne Jackson wrote 'Christmas Can't Be Very Far Away'. Background vocals are provided by Michael Mellett, Lisa Bevill, and J.D. Cunningham. This pretty easy listening tune begins with these sentimental words: "Little bits of heaven floating gently by the window/Soon this dirty city will be covered with a new snow/Let's put on our winter boots/Go outside and play/Christmas can't be very far away".
3. A reverent and mellow version of 'Silent Night' follows. It features the Patrick Williams Orchestra and Choir and speaks of Christ's birth: "Silent night, holy night/Shepherds quake at the sight/Glory streams from heaven afar/Heavenly hosts sing 'Alleluia/Christ the Savior is born/Christ the Savior is born'".
4. Amy co-wrote the modern hymn-like song 'Christmas Lullaby (I Will Lead You Home)' with Chris Eaton. God's love for us is celebrated: "How beautiful, how precious/The Savior of old/To love so completely the loneliest soul/How gently, how tenderly/He says to one and all/Child you can follow Me and I will lead you home/Trust Me and follow Me and I will lead you home". Grace Stumb, a child, sings on the track as well.
5. 'Highland Cathedral' is a beautiful Celtic instrumental shy of three minutes long and featuring the Nashville Studio Orchestra and the Nashville Pipes and Drums.
6. A swingin' pop version of 'Jingle Bell Rock' makes use of a male quartet. This one's all about having a good time: "Jingle bell, jingle bell, jingle bell rock/Jingle bells chime in jingle bell time/Dancin' and prancin' in jingle bell square in the frosty air/What a bright time/It's the right time/To rock the night away/Jingle bell time is a swell time/To go glidin' in a one horse sleigh".
7. Pat Ballard wrote 'Mister Santa', which dates back to 1955. It's a toe-tapping pop song set to the tune of the ever popular 'Mr. Sandman'. Here, we find Amy vocalizing children's holiday thoughts: "Santa/We've been so good/We've washed the dishes and done what we should/Made up the beds/And scrubbed up our toesies/We've used a Kleenex when we've blown our noseies/Oh Santa/Look at our ears/They're clean as whistles/We're sharper than shears/Now we've put you on the spot/Mister Santa bring us a lot".
8. John Jarvis and Randy Goodrum wrote ''Til the Season Comes 'Round Again'. Vince Gill sings harmony vocals on this easy listening song about cherishing Christmas moments: "Come and gather around at the table/In the spirit of family and friends/And we'll all join hands and remember this moment/'Til the season comes 'round again.../One night holy and bright/Shining with love from our hearts/By a warm fire/Let's lift our heads high/And be thankful we're here/'Til this time next year".
9. Bobby Taylor plays oboe on 'Gabriel's Oboe', a short and lovely instrumental.
10. Chris Rice wrote 'Welcome to Our World' in the mid 1990's. It's an adult contemporary ballad directed to Christ: "Tears are falling, hearts are breaking/How we need to hear from God/You've been promised/We've been waiting/Welcome, Holy Child/Welcome, Holy Child.../Bring Your peace into our violence/Bid our hungry souls be filled/Word now breaking Heaven's silence/Welcome to our world/Welcome to our world".
11. Closing out the album is an over six minute version of Michael W. Smith's praise and worship classic 'Agnus Dei' with Tim Morrison playing trumpet solo. It's pretty. The lyrics begin: "Alleluia, alleluia/For the Lord God Almighty reigns/Alleluia, alleluia/For the Lord God Almighty reigns/Alleluia/Holy, holy/Are you Lord God Almighty/Worthy is the Lamb/Worthy is the Lamb!"
I find A CHRISTMAS TO REMEMBER to be a very pleasant, warm, inviting album to listen to and I am writing this in July! It's not particularly the longest Christmas record ever. It clocks in at 38 minutes and 51 seconds. There are several songs about enjoying the sentimental sights and sounds of Christmas (including snow, carols, shopping, cards, jingle bells, and Santa) but there are also blatant Christian themed songs about Christ's birth and God's love and care for us. And the album does end with an all out praise and worship song. The slow songs far outweigh the fast ones here. The musical genres presented are easy listening, adult contemporary, and pop. This is a must have Christmas CD. I'm rating it 100 %. For more info visit: www.amygrant.com and/or connect with her on Facebook.
Bryan Duncan was born on March 16, 1953 in Riverside, California. He sang for the Sweet Comfort Band who put out their debut album SWEET COMFORT in 1977. They broke up after 1984's PERFECT TIMING. They would re-unite in 2013 for THE WAITING IS OVER. Bryan's solo debut was 1985's HAVE YOURSELF COMMITTED. Over the years he became known for such songs as: 'Strong Medicine', 'Love Takes Time', and 'A Heart Like Mine'. In 1994 he released his seventh solo project, SLOW REVIVAL (Word/Epic). The album peaked at #5 on the U.S. Billboard Top Contemporary Christian Albums chart. In the liner notes, Bryan writes: "I'm grateful, dear God, for the unconditional love You have for me. It's been hard to believe".
1. Bryan co-wrote 'A Heavenly Light' with Randy Lee, and Lou Ann Lee. It's an upbeat, funk/pop song about spiritual enlightenment: "A light in the darkness always changes everything, yeah/I'm in a slow revival from a rude awakening/Hey! Oh yeah!/Well, it's a sure sign for seeking time/Take another hard look/Where I'm going wrong/And then all of a sudden a heavenly light goes on/It's a little brighter than before/Leads back to the Savior/Don't need to fix the world, yeah!"
2. James Felix and Bryan wrote 'United We Stand'. It's a soulful ballad with guest vocals by Anointed. It is about unity in the body of Christ: "United we stand, divided we fall/We will live or die together/The same for one and all/Together defend this love without end/And we'll honor God forever, together, oh.../Oh, there's just no way to win if we're fighting all the time".
3. 'Don't Look Away' is a light pop song about caring for others: "There in a dozen faces all calling my name/And their hands reach for mine and they're cryin'/Don`t look away, see how I've been wounded/Don't turn your face, see my face as your own/Don't look away/Put your arms around me/Don't go closing your eyes to the truth as you pray".
4. 'Your Love, My Saving Grace' is a bouncy funk song that makes good use of horns and testifies: "I know that it's Your love in a lonely place/My life that You help me face/And there ain't no need to worry/Your love, my saving grace/No need to cry/Don't take it away now/Ain't no need to worry/As long as I've got You/I got help to see me through/It's Your love, my saving grace".
5. Michael Omartian and Bryan wrote 'Traces of Heaven'. It's was one of three tracks to reach #1 on Christian radio. It's an adult contemporary ballad about God's love for us: "My hope lies in Your love for me/In Your faithfulness I can see/Traces of heaven/In subtle kindness, Lord/You keep lovingly showing me/Traces of heaven".
6. 'My House' is a fast-paced pop song about spiritual renewal: "Tearin' the walls down in my house/We're swingin' the doors wide/Takin' all my windows out/Lettin' the light in, in my house/We're startin' all over". There's a great electric guitar solo at song's end.
7. 'Lonely Tonight' is a beautiful adult contemporary ballad that finds Bryan pouring out his heart to God: "You know I trust in You/But I'm lonely tonight/It's not a simple need for company/I don't know where I belong in the world I see/And I'm lonely tonight".
8. Reed Vertelney and Bryan co-wrote 'Things Are Gonna Change', a great song of encouragement: "Don't give up, well, I've seen some hard things/I never thought that I would ever smile again.../Gotta have a little faith/Maybe add a little trust, add a lot of love/You see you're gonna rise above/The things that are so rough".
9. 'Wheels of a Good Thing' is an upbeat, funky toe-tapper of encouragement: "When you feel yourself stranded/Broken down, abandoned, call y'all!/Say your prayers and get out of the way/Ah, and He'll get ya/Hey!/Jesus may, Jesus may help you get through this world, amen!/When there's a will there is a way/Oh, leave it to Jesus to help you change your attitude".
10. David Lasley, Lana Marrano, Darrell Brown, and Dan Posthuma wrote the closing song, 'Safe Harbor'. It's a nice easy listening praise and worship number: "Tossed upon the ocean/Your hand steadied straight my bow/And as I chart the storms of life/I know You will show me how/And now, in this cold, dark world/I'm put always to the test/Your arms are the shelter that offers to me rest/Lord, You're my safe harbor/With a word You calm my soul/And You show me sweet power/And a love that brings me home".
SLOW REVIVAL was nominated for 'Best Contemporary Album' at the 26th GMA Dove Awards. Pop, funk, easy listening, and adult contemporary sounds are all found on this album. There are an equal amount of fast and slower songs. A gratitude for God's love and salvation clearly comes through. A desire for love and unity among believers and a need to care for others are expressed. Revival and spiritual renewal are desired here. There's a song about loneliness and songs of encouragement. Bryan's vocals are soulful. I'm rating this project 93% and recommending it to fans of Clay Crosse. For more info visit: www.bryanduncan.com and/or connect with him on Facebook.
