GOLDIE'S LAST DAY

The Joel Hanson Band was founded in Minnesota in 1989. By 1991 they changed their name to Inside Out and signed with Brown Bannister's new label, Vireo Records. They then changed their name to Pray For Rain and in 1992 released their self-titled debut which included 'Do You Want to Know Love'. An instrumental group of the same band name threatened a lawsuit, so the band shortened their name to PFR. In 1993 they put out their second album, GOLDIE'S LAST DAY (Vireo). Group members were Joel Hanson, Patrick Andrew, and Mark Nash. The album was produced by Jimmie Lee Sloas and executive produced by Brown Bannister.

First up is the sizzling pop/rock song, 'Walk Away From Love'. It's addressed to non-Christians: "Maybe I'm right and He's waiting at the table/Maybe it happened when I saw it was my sin/Maybe He's waiting for a chance to show you true love/Maybe you'll never get this chance again/I can't understand why you would walk away from love". 'By Myself' is a song of self-reflection: "I got here by myself but I know that I will never leave the same way/I got here by myself but how many more will I have led astray?/It's not long before I notice there are no doors to be seen/I can see I'm going nowhere, somewhere that I've already been". 'That Kind of Love' is a beautiful ballad with these poetic words: "And, oh, I would give anything to see Him face to face/And, oh, He gave us everything to make the world a better place/And, oh, where does that kind of love come from?/They say that it runs in His blood".

'Dying Man' testifies: "Now I've found freedom/Now mercy holds my hand/It took the grace of One living to save this dying man". 'Spinnin' Round' is simply a fun, catchy pop/rock cut: "Some people say we're crazy, but we're all spinnin' round/But you and me, we've got something to say/We're all spinnin' round, all spinnin' round.../But you and me, we've got something inside/I think we're gonna make it, yeah, yeah".

Next, we come to the title track, 'Goldie's Last Day' inspired by the death of group member Patrick Andrews' golden retriever. This novelty song begins with these thoughts: "Puppy love, puppy love/Yes, she gave all she had/Not like a brother or sister, more like a Mom or a Dad/We never asked her, never gave her a choice/We just barked out commands/'Sit, stay, don't beg, stop licking my hands'/Those days are gone now/I wish Goldie would come out and play". 'Satisfied' is upbeat rock 'n' roll musically. It desires spiritual growth: "Winter, Spring, or Summer, Fall/The seasons never cared at all/That I was never changing/My colors stayed the same/But when days go by and I'm not growing/The leaves fall off to bare what I'm not showing/That I've never had my feet wet/And for that I am to blame".

'I Don't Understand' reminds us God's ways are higher than ours: "I retreat by myself at the back of my brain/I cannot see what You're showing me through this pain/I have found that I have found nothing for so long/I don't understand, I don't need to/I know You've a plan You will see through/It is in Your hands/I believe You". 'Mercy Man' is a good rock song about having hope in Jesus: "He said that all could be forgiven if I could trust in One who'd risen/And that's when His mercy came to me/I was saved by the mercy Man/He touched my heart/He helped me understand that there was shelter in unfailing love if I'd just take the hand, hand of the mercy Man".

What follows is 'Shine', a bouncy pop song about witnessing: "Since He's come into my life He's brought sunshine to my day/I will let my light shine, no more shadows/I will let my light shine/Darkness, run away/I will let my light shine for a bright tomorrow/I will let my light shine". Last up is 'Wait for the Sun' a ballad of encouragement: "So wait for the sun to come out again/Storms always come but they blow away with the wind/So wait for the Son is coming again/Winds of trial blow hard, so we got to hang on, hang on to Him.../He's won greater battles before/What makes you think He won't fight now?"

GOLDIE'S LAST DAY is mostly fast paced pop/rock songs, with two or three ballads mixed in. If you like the vocal stylings of Phil Keaggy and/or The Beatles, this album should appeal to you. God's love, grace, mercy, and forgiveness are central on this CD. Listeners are invited to leave the wrong spiritual paths they are on and come and follow Jesus. He can help us all grow spiritually by His Spirit. We can also share God and all He offers with others. I'm rating this fun, 'summery' sounding album 87.5%. For more info connect with the group on social media.

READY TO FLY

FFH (Far From Home) released their major label debut, I WANT TO BE LIKE YOU, in 1998. Fast forward to 2003 and they put out their fourth album READY TO FLY (Essential). It peaked at #5 on the Top Christian Albums chart. Group members were Jeromy and Jennifer Deibler, Brian Smith, and Michael Boggs. In the liner notes, the group writes: "Our music is who we are. We are honored to have been given a few moments in your hectic schedule. We pray that God would speak to you through what you hear".

Starting things off is one of seven songs Jeromy wrote alone. 'You Found Me' finds Lincoln Brewster and Jerry McPherson on electric guitar. It's a great pop song of testimony: "In the pit of despair/I was all alone there/I wasn't looking for You/But You found me anyway/You put Your hand on my face/Then You changed my name/Nothing can separate me from You". 'Good to Be Free' makes use of trumpet and portrays Jesus as Savior: "I spent so long living in a cell that I thought was home/I didn't know it wasn't for me/I let the Lord search my soul with a fine tooth comb/He showed me everything that I could be/Now I see it's good to be free".

Michael Boggs and Tony Wood co-wrote 'It's A Good Day'. Byron Hagan plays the B3 on this cheery pop song of contentment: "Circumstance and situations change/You know life can turn on a dime/But there's a constant hope and peace/That I have come to find/And it's all because of who God is/And that He is alive and I am His". The title track, 'Ready to Fly', utilizes the Nashville String Machine. It's a pop ballad longing for heaven: "I'm ready to fly, I'm ready to soar/I'm ready to leave this world behind/I'm ready to open up the door/I'm ready to fly/I'm ready to spread my wings across the sky/I think it's time/I'm ready to go/I'm ready to fly".

'I'll Join the Rocks' is a song of praise: "Your song goes on and on and I must testify/I know that I was born to worship/So if all the singing stops/I'll join the rocks.../Hallelujah!" Jeromy co-wrote 'Follow Love' with Scott Krippayne. Tambourine and B3 appear on this pretty ballad appropriate for a young person going off to college or university: "I've got a heart that's full of dreams/And a little bit of crazy/I can feel it pulling me to somewhere I have never been/I'm packing up and leaving home/To travel into the great unknown/It's time, I have to go".

Next is 'Never Gonna Be Alone', a bouncy pop song about God's goodness: "Jesus came and gave His life away/And rose again on that day/So we could say/'I'm ne ne never gonna be alone/Cause He's around". Michael Boggs and Jeromy Deibler co-wrote 'Ready for a World'. Mark Hill plays bass on this happy pop song anticipating heaven: "I am ready for a world/Where I will kneel before Your throne/And I will hear the words/'You are finally home'/I am ready for that world/But for now and until then/I will try and comprehend/How my world will be made new/I'm ready (2X)".

'Waltz for Jennifer' includes the use of accordion and bouzouki. It's a pretty love song: "We belong together, you and me/Holding on tight like lock and key/Going strong, the way this love should be/A fantasy/And I'm so glad that God made me for you and you for me". 'His Love Goes On Forever' is one of two songs solely written by Michael Boggs. It's an energetic praise and worship song: "His love reaches to the highest mountain/His love stretches to the lowest valley/His love will never fail me/It's always there, surrounding me".

'If Not For Christ' is a beautiful ballad of gratitude: "It was for me He bled and died/It was my sword that pierced His side/It was my name that Jesus cried/When on that tree He bled and died/It was for me He bled and died/And now to Christ I owe it all/He is to me a tower strong/Salvation does to me belong/It is to Christ I owe it all (2X)". Last up is 'Here I Am', a touching song that begins with these words of spiritual surrender: "Here I am, my knees are on this floor again/Take away my pride, reveal this heart within/And send Your rain of mercy, let the healing begin". 

READY TO FLY is a terrific pop album of fast and slow songs, that showcases the tight vocal harmonies of FFH. Thematically, this album spends a lot of time reflecting on the goodness of our God. He loved us so much that He sent His Son Jesus to Calvary to die for our sins, saving us and purchasing our freedom. He is a faithful God Who deserves our praise and our worship. We should give our entire lives to Him. FFH also longs for heaven. What a grand place that will be for eternity! There's also a nice love song and one song about pursuing one's dreams. For more info visit www.ffh.net and connect with the group on social media. I'm giving this one 100%.

PURE ATTRACTION

Kathleen 'Kathy' Troccoli was born on June 24, 1958 in Brooklyn, New York. She released her debut CCM album, STUBBORN LOVE, in 1982. Fast forward to 1991 and she put out her fourth full-length album, PURE ATTRACTION (Reunion). It was produced by Ric Wake and executive produced by Michael Blanton and Terry Hemmings. In the liner notes, Kathy shares: "I pray that as I sing my heart, I'll be singing yours too-and that we'll all become better lovers of one another-and even greater lovers of God".

The first two songs were written by the successful Diane Warren. 'Everything Changes' was a top five CCM and top twenty mainstream hit. It's a perfect, upbeat pop love song: "Well, you came in my life like a ray of light shining through the clouds in my heart/I just looked at you and the world was new/It was right right from the start.../Everything changes/Nothing looks the same through the eyes of love". 'Can't Get You Out Of My Heart' is a slower pop song of one longing to get their romantic partner back: "How can I think of finding somebody new/Ooh, when all I ever do is think of you?/What can I do?/I hear my heartbeat-it's calling your name.../I see your face every place I go/How to stop loving you, baby, I don't know/Cause I can't get you out of my heart".

'You've Got A Way' is a radio friendly adult pop ballad. It finds Kathy grateful for her partner: "Oh, how you make me laugh/Oh, how you've heard me cry/And oh how you make me feel so wonderful inside.../You've got a way/You've got a way that heals me/With love like I've never known/And when I`m with you/When I'm with you/I'm always, I'm always at home". 'Only Love Can Know' drags on and addresses Kathy's partner: "As I journey to high places far away from here/What a comfort to know you're on the ride/Oh, only love can go/Where no one dares to go/You've touched me there/Where only love can go".

Next up is 'Help Myself to You' which Kathy wrote alone. It's about her relationship with Christ and is a great pop song: "To be alone with You Jesus/It's such an honor for me/Pour Your life into me/Fill me with Your glory/Let Your love consume me/Oh to be at this place/It's an act of Your grace/And there's nothin' that I'd rather do than to help myself to You". There's a nice electric guitar solo too. Kathy co-wrote 'The Hard Days' with Bill Montvilo. It's about depending on God when times get rough: "There are times I think I've had enough/Life has brought me to my knees/Oh, takes a toll on me/But Your hold on me/It stays, oh, how it stays/On the hard days I'm gonna look for You/I gotta see You/On the hard days".

'Love Was Never Meant to Die' is a pretty ballad of gratitude to God: "Love was never meant to die/But still You gave Your all to keep it alive/And I can't imagine why You'd give Your life for me/But I've begun to see/That Your love was never meant to die". What follows is a cover of Stevie Wonder's 1972 song 'You And I'. It's very positive: "Here we are on earth together/It's you and I/God has made us fall in love, it's true/I've really found someone like you.../Well, in my mind we can conquer the world/In love you and I/You and I (2X)".

'Love Has Found Me Here' includes these encouraging words: "Love, love has found me here/Hiding all these years/From the calling of my heart/Love, love has found me here/Love has reappeared/Or were You there right from the start?" Last up is 'You're Still Here' penned by Kathy and Jack Fowler. It speaks of God's faithfulness: "You're still here/And I'm reminded of the love that I once knew/You're still here longing for the day that You can hold me close/Oh Lord, You know I never meant to let You go/And You've been here/You're still here!"

When all is said and done, PURE ATTRACTION is a great pop record! Both it and Amy Grant's HEART IN MOTION came out in 1991. There are six ballads and four faster songs on Kathy's project, with definite adult contemporary influences. Kathy's vocals are smooth and strong, while Richie Cannata plays sax well. There are several songs celebrating male-female romantic relationships and there's one that longs after a former love. God is portrayed as loving and always there for us. He went to the cross for us and is our Helper. Kathy desires closeness with Him, as we all should. I'm rating this album 92%. For more info visit www.kathytroccoli.com and connect with her on social media.

A VIOLENT GRACE: MEETING CHRIST AT THE CROSS

Michael Card was born on April 11, 1957 in Madison, TN. His debut album was 1981's FIRST LIGHT. Likely his most famous song is 'El Shaddai'. It's a co-write with John Thompson and was a big hit for Amy Grant. Fast forward to 2013 and Card released the live concert CD entitled A VIOLENT GRACE: MEETING CHRIST AT THE CROSS (Covenant Artists).

Starting things off is the easy listening title track, 'A Violent Grace'. It reflects on Christ's sacrifice for us: "So ruthless He loves us/So reckless His embrace/To show relentless kindness to a hardened human race/The joy that was before Him/On the Man of Sorrows' face/And by His blood He bought a violent grace". 'Only His Wounds Intro' continues the theme: "Only His wounds can heal the broken/Only His wounds can save us from sin". 'Known By the Scars' touches on the resurrection: "And after they had slain Him and laid Him in the grave/And the ones He loved had fled into the dark/Then love and power raised Him/God won the victory/But they only recognized Him by the scars". 'Ride on to Die' is a ballad about Jesus entering Jerusalem: "Oh daughter of Zion/Your time's drawing near/Don't forsake Him/Oh, don't pass it by/On the foal of a donkey/As the prophets had said/Passing by you He rides on to die".

'In the Garden' is a quiet song about Christ in Gethsemane: "Trembling with fear alone in the garden/Battle before the final war/Blood became tears there in the garden/To fall upon the silent stones/There in the darkness the light and the darkness stood still/Two choices, one tortured will/There was the choice had been made/All the world could be saved by the One in the garden". What follows is the beautiful, classic hymn 'O Sacred Head'. It shows gratitude to Christ: "What Thou, my Lord, has suffered was all for sinners' gain/Mine, mine was the transgression/But Thine the deadly pain/Lo, here I fall my Savior!/'Tis I deserve Thy place/Look on me with Thy favor/Vouchsafe to me Thy grace". 'Why' reflects on Judas: "Why did it have to be a friend who chose to betray the Lord?/And why did he use a kiss to show them?/That's not what a kiss is for/Only a friend can betray a friend/A stranger has nothing to gain/And only a friend comes close enough to ever cause such pain".

Next up is 'Death of a Son', an easy listening ballad about Christ on the cross: "Why are You so far from saving me?/So far from the wounds of my groaning?/By night and by day I cry out in pain/So why do You not answer?.../I am a worm and no longer a man/Lama Sabachthani/They have pierced my feet and hands/Lama Sabachthani". 'Tears of the World' calls out to God: "So open my eyes and open my heart/And grant me the gift of Your grieving/And awaken in me the compassion to weep/Just one of the tears of the world". 'Crown Him' has more energy to it and recounts New Testament events: "So a circle of pain and love came down upon His head/It was not for anything He'd done nor for anything He'd said/For all His life He'd sought to show they were only living a lie/But they didn't care to hear or know/They just wanted Him to die".

'This Must Be the Lamb' is a lovely ballad about Calvary: "Like a sheep to the slaughter, so silently still/This must be the Lamb/The poor women weeping at what seemed a great loss/Trembling in fear there at the foot of the cross/Tormented by memories that came like a flood/Unaware that their pardon must be bought with His blood". 'All That Was Lost' proclaims Christ's victory: "He will claim His lost possession/Repossess you, pay the cost/He will purchase you for freedom/He will find all that was lost/So run and tell all those who have longed to hear/The wait is over/The risen Savior's here".

'Love Crucified Arose' is a song of great celebration: "Love crucified arose/The Risen One in splendor/Jehovah, Sole Defender has won the victory/Love crucified arose/And the grave became a place of hope/For the heart that sin and sorrow broke is beating once again". Closing out the concert is 'Only His Wounds Finale'. It's a ballad of spiritual invitation: "The day of the Lord, the promise foretold/The judgment upon us is soon to unfold/But still there is hope, the way has been made/Before us is Jesus, with power to save". 

A choir and strings enhance this live concert. It is moving, sincere, and passionate. It is evident that Michael Card is super grateful for Calvary, the atonement, and his salvation. Christ suffered greatly that our sins may be forgiven if we but ask, and that we might have eternal life in heaven. Not only did Christ suffer on the cross, but He also endured agony and betrayal in Gethsemane. Card doesn't end the story here though. He celebrates Jesus' resurrection and victory over sin and death. Satan is the ultimate loser. A VIOLENT GRACE is a great easy listening/folk project with a bit of praise and worship styling included. I'm rating this live project 90%. For more info visit www.michaelcard.com or connect with him on social media.

FIGHTER

MASS actually recorded their debut album, FIGHTER, in 1982 at Criteria Studios in Miami. Due to label and management troubles the album was not released. Well, fast forward to 2019 and No Life 'Til Metal Records has released it! Group members on the album are: Louis St. August (lead/backup vocals), Gene D'Itria (guitar/backup vocals), Kevin Varrio (bass guitar/backup vocals), and Joey 'Vee' Vadala. The album was produced by Tom Allom and MASS and executive produced by Bill Bafford. Scott Waters did a good job on the layout and design.

First up is a blazing metal song 'Watch Her Walk'. It's about a guy with no luck: "Say that you love me, said that you're mine/And now that I'm down here you ain't got the time/You got the power I've got the need/My heart is aching and ready to bleed.../All that I can do is watch her walk, watch her". 'Part of Me' includes great electric guitar work and is about an unattainable lady: "Show me the way to go on my own/Don't be afraid, cause you're not alone/Baby, I need you by my side and when I look I'm hypnotized/But you won't give anyone a chance/Afraid of a loss and a true romance".

'Too Far Gone' is a good metal track that finds a guy in despair: "Too many years, fast cars and beers/I had to beg, steal, and borrow/I lived my life without a fear/I live today for tomorrow/Too far gone, I'm too far gone, too far gone/I keep kicking my head for what I said/The way I am now/I'm better off dead! (3X)". A video for 'Do You Love Me' aired on MTV. This one's a melodic ballad that picks up steam as it goes along. It begins with these words of inquiry: "Do you love me?/Do you want me by your side?/Want to hold me girl?/Want to make me feel everything's right?/Do you need me?/Do you think that I'm the one?/Do you need me girl?/Do you want me girl?/I'll be there tonight".

'Voyager' is a metal song about undertaking a quest: "Though our journey's long/Our ship is strong as the men that sail aboard her/The power above watches over us as the forces that rock the sea/To the center of the earth, to the middle of the world/To find the truth of which we have heard/Look for the edge-in your heart you'll find your goal/Look for the edge-to the center of your soul". The title track, 'Fighter' is over six minutes long. It seems directed at an enemy: "There's blood in my eye, my back is to the wall/I see him coming closer/This sucker's gonna fall/Across through confusion, a brutal illusion/I know I'm not half the man I thought I was/Cause I'm a fighter!/Nobody's there by my side/A born tiger or is it just my foolish pride/That's gone and left me dry?"

Next up is 'Can You See it Again', a power ballad longing for a gal: "Don't you think it's time for us to be alone and together?/Don't you think that I had enough of being turned down as your lover?/Forever!/So come on Cheryl/Hang up the phone cause I really can't wait/No I really can't wait, alone!" 'Slip of the Lip' is a short rocker with these unfortunate lyrics: "Sex is my direction and I'm aiming it at you.../You've got to give me what I want/You've got to give me what I need/You've got to give me what I crave before you drive me in my grave".

'Change Your Way' includes these thoughts: "To love will bring you pain/May sadness and sorrow be the gift for tomorrow". Last up is 'Bad Man's Reputation', inspired by a former manager of the band who screwed them over. It's a blazing metal song: "He's got a bad man's reputation/He's gonna fill you up with lies/He's got a high school education, but everybody says he tries.../Bad man's reputation/Look into his eyes tonight/Bad man's reputation-I think he's getting ready to fight!"

If you enjoy the vocals of Stryper's Michael Sweet, you'll like those of Louis St. August here. They both know how to scream for added effect. Musically this has 80's hair metal written all over it! The majority of the songs are fast paced, or start off slow and become fast. St. August and the band deliver these ten tracks with much passion and energy. Male-female relationships are the most common subject matter. Several songs are about a guy desiring a gal to feel the same way romantically for him as he does for her. Lust and love are intertwined here. There are also songs about searching for meaning in life and trying to endure to the end. I'm rating FIGHTER 80%. For more info visit www.massrocks.com and www.nolifetilmetalrecords.com.

There are also seven Criteria Studios Rough Mixes tagged on after the album proper ends. Collectors will appreciate these! One is the previously unreleased track 'Where Will You Be'. The Bonus Track 'Holy One (Live)' ends things off. It's a Christian metal song about a battle between evil and good.

WEAPONS OF GOD

Ohio's Weapons of God have released their debut album of the same name on Roxx Records in 2019. It was produced by Luke Nealigh of BioGenesis and executive produced by Bill Bafford. The band's roster is listed as: Steve McGowan (vocals, guitars, keyboards), Leon Black (vocals, guitars), Ed Girard (bass guitar), and Greg Alan (drums). On their official website they quote Psalm 144:1 which reads: "Blessed be the Lord, my rock, who trains my hands for war, and my fingers for battle".

Starting things off is the hard rocking 'Are You Ready?'. It points to Christ as life's ultimate answer: "His Name will reign forever/My Father, my Savior/Creator, Deliverer/He is the Master, the Healer/The Author, the Perfecter of our faith/Are you ready?.../In a blink of an eye/He will come like a thief in the night/It's a matter of time/Don't be the one left behind". 'Call Your Name' is a power praise song: "My life is never going to be the same again/Since You got a hold of me/Never returning to the place where it began/Because it was You that set me free".

'Glory And The Power' is a pounding metal track that exalts God unashamedly: "Upon that cross He died for me/For my sins He set me free/Praise Him today! (2X).../The Holy Spirit is with you, yeah/Band of angels singing everywhere/He's got a love that lasts forever". 'Ghost' is the longest song clocking in at over eight and a half minutes long. It starts slow but gains speed musically. Also, it contrasts unclean spirits with God's: "Ghost in you, Ghost in me/I can feel it deep inside/The Holy Spirit starts to rise/I was walking with the demons/Talking to the dead/Searching for the reasons/I should have looked to You instead/You opened my eyes/And You made it all so clear/The only ghost, the Holy Ghost/I do not fear".

'Heaven Can't Wait' is a hard rock song of spiritual invitation: "There's a better way to come alive/Take His hand, leave it all behind/He can take you to His Holy place/And save you with His Holy grace/Heaven can't wait (2X)/Trust in His faith before it's too late/It's not God that sends you to hell/It's only you that sends yourself/Heaven can't wait". 'Simple Solution' is a pulsating rocker that shares the Gospel: "Unto this earth a child is born/Who will die for our sins for everyone/So, let it be written, let it be done/God sent His only beloved Son/Jesus, my Prince of Peace/Blessed is His Name/My Savior forever".

Next up is 'Saving Grace', a pretty praise and worship number: "Oh, Jesus, You are my saving grace/You are my shining light/That guides me on my darkest days/You are my love, You are my life/You are my Savior Jesus Christ/My Friend for eternity and I love You". 'Angry' is a meaty metal track with these intriguing lyrics: "This anger, it runs deep/My patience so thin/This anger, it runs deep/This anger, is not sin/Purge it out from inside/Force control again/My God, my peace is in You/My anger is in men".

The title track, 'Weapons of God', follows. It's almost six and a half minutes long. It's a strong metal cut about spiritual warfare: "With every devotion we will defeat/The ways of temptation the devil will bring/Stand firm, stand strong with God's armor on/We are the weapons, the weapons of God.../With the shield of faith and the helmet of salvation/We will stand against hate and all temptation". The songs ends with the sound of a storm and rain. Last up is 'Fade Away', a quieter tune that reflects on an old man: "Where's his family and his friends?/Did he have any kids?/He just sits there day to day/For God to take Him away/And it makes me wonder/It makes me think/If one day that could happen to me/To know I got no place to go/When I'm all alone". This track also ends with a storm.

WEAPONS OF GOD is an awesome hard rock/metal album with great vocals and electric guitar work! Although there are a few laid back moments, for the most part this is a heavy album musically. The band makes it clear that salvation and eternal life in heaven are only found through Jesus Christ. He is the answer to life's troubles and questions and worthy of our praise. He alone can make us new creations and we can have His Holy Spirit living in our lives. We can use the spiritual weapons of warfare that God gives us to defeat the devil and temptation. I'm rating this album 98% and recommending it to fans of Stryper, Deliverance, and Liaison. For more info visit www.weaponsofgodmusic.com and www.roxxproductions.com.

BLOOD

Red Sea released one album called BLOOD on Rugged Records in 1994. The group's roster was Robyn Kyle Basauri (vocals, some percussion), Chris 'Howell' Sorenson (guitars, dobro, 12-string acoustic and slide), Greg Chaisson (electric bass), and Jeff Martin (acoustic drums). You may know some of these guys from the bands Die Happy, Fear Not, and Badlands. Fast forward to 2019 and Roxx Records has re-issued the album! Scott Waters did a great job on the cover art!

The album starts off with 'Soulshaker', a powerful metal track about an encounter with Jesus: "There stands a man with eyes of fire/Looking through your heart's desire/Sayin' 'Leave the world you know behind/It's gonna blow your mind'/Soul shaker, soul shaker/Fire in your brain/Drivin' you insane/Soul shaker, heart breaker/It's gonna bring you to your knees/Satisfaction guaranteed/Tonight, tonight". 'Blood' is a great hard rocker about redemption: "Now take a look around you/Tell me what it is you see/I see the masses crying out to be set free/Can you feel it coming?/In the name of love/I see a new day dawning/Rolling like a river, flowing to a sea of/Blood, blood, blood, cover my life with the blood (2X)". 'Wolves at the Door' runs over seven minutes long. It includes a nice electric guitar solo and calls out to Christ: "Take it or leave it/The truth, the life, the way/You'd better believe it/Lord, Lord save this poor gone soul".

'Dust to Dust' is a rock ballad that testifies: "Born a child of mercy/Bred by the powers that move the seas/When my day is done and my time has finally come/From the ashes Your love will carry me/Formed from the dust of the earth and water/Fed by the fire that quenched my soul/I've held the hand that holds back the rain and it set me free to rest in peace". 'Last Days of Winter' is a slow cut reminding us to be careful what kind of foundation we build our lives on: "See the old man/His withered mind/Built his fortress in the sand/And in a moment's time/Swept up by the tide/All his wealth slips through his hands". The song builds in intensity.

Next up is 'Hellbound Train'. It paints a morbid picture of where the unsaved will spend eternity: "The Helltrain runs through the night/The wheels keep turning/The fires keep burning/Once around a long way down/Miles down from heaven/Alone on this Hell-bound train.../Burnin', burnin' alive/Burnin', no one survives this ride". Bob Bancalri plays the Hammond organ on 'Shades of Purple'. It's a chug-a-long metal track about suicide: "My mind is busy spinnin'/As I see the reaper grinning in my head/As I lie here barely breathin'/I can see the ground beneath me turning red/I can hear the sirens blaring/As I take my last breath starin' at the sky".

'Walk on Fire' is about a guy wanting his girl back. It's a hard rock number: "Every time I see your face I remember your ways/Every time I cross that line I swear on my life/I'd walk on fire, miles and miles/Walk on fire to get to you/If the flames burned higher/I'd walk that wire to get to you". 'Losin' My Way' puts full trust in God: "I believe in Your ways till the end of my days/You are my shelter/To You I pray when I'm losin', losin' my way/I seek Your wisdom to search what I must find, I must find/I seek Your vision to be my eyes when I am blind, so blind".

'Down Home Static' is a one minute filler. Last up is 'Tears of Joy', on which Mark Clark plays church organ. It's a bluesy rock song that offers good advice: "Cry those tears of joy/Let them fall on down your face/Love has been my saving grace/Cry those tears of joy/Please remember baby/Love is gonna guide your way back home".

To me, the definite strengths of BLOOD are the strong lead vocals and the great musicianship on this hard rock/metal release. The lyrics are written so as not to be preachy, yet get the message of God's love and plans for us, through to the listeners. I applaud the band for tackling the subjects of hell and suicide. Life without Christ is shown to be empty. The good news though is that God is waiting for us to run to Him and gain eternal life, peace, and hope! If we build our lives on the foundation of Jesus Christ we can weather the storms of life. The CD booklet contains individual photos of each band member. I'm rating BLOOD 86% and recommending it to fans of Bride and Guardian. For more info visit www.roxxproductions.com and connect with the band on social media.

SEARCH & DESTROY

Philadelphia is a Christian hard rock/metal band hailing from Shreveport, Louisiana. They put out their debut album, TELL THE TRUTH, in 1984. The next year they followed this up with SEARCH & DESTROY, a concept album about a young guy, Bobby. Fast forward to 2019 and Roxx Records has re-issued the album. The Cd booklet includes some killer artwork by fans. Philadelphia is: Brian Clark (bass and vocals), Brian Martini (drums), Phil Scholling (guitars), and Ronn Flowers (guitars). James A. Griffin produces, while Bill Bafford executive produces.

First up is the blazing metal title track 'Search & Destroy' which begins with the sound of a siren. This song describes the devil and his intentions: "Deadly lion on the prowl/Sharpened teeth, fearsome growl/Through the night he rides the wind/Seeking to devour, the claws extend/Another victim in his hands/Search and destroy/Prince of the air, false Messiah/Angel of light.../You will die without the Son". 'Bobby's Song' is a melodic rock song describing his situation: "Oh, what can you say when he turns love away and he's all on his own?/Outside he's so tough but inside it's a bluff and he feels so alone/When Bobby gets high his whole world is bright/But emptiness waits just like a chilly night". 'Oh My Boy' is a rock ballad on which God declares His love for the lost Bobby: "Oh my boy/The world will be so cold to you/I can tell the pain that you'll be going through/Just remember everyday/My love will find a way/You're my boy/You're my boy, such a part of Me/You belong/It's just we two". There's some great electric guitar work here!

'Judgment Day' rocks, talks of child abuse, and offers hope: "Bobby knows, he won't tell/It's a torture that destroys/Mom and Daddy made a hell/It's big enough for a little boy/Jesus loves the little children and there will be hell to pay/Their wounded spirits cry for justice/And they call it judgment day". 'Mirror Man' is a good metal song that calls out the devil: "Evil master, ruler of this world/Cruel eyes watching as your wicked plans unfurl/Captive innocents, wrap themselves in chains/Blinded by your deadly touch/They'll never be the same.../'Take all you can' you said/'Nobody cares for you/They're looking out for No. 1'/And I believed it too". 'Fastrack' finds Bobby wanting nothing to do with God: "Fastrack livin', I'm livin the way I please/Fastrack livin', I'm tending to my needs.../You're gonna tell me 'Jesus loves me'/I've got no time for God above me".

Next up is 'Showdown', a rock song that proves God's love and finds Bobby softening his heart: "I'm not going to hide any longer/I've run so far/I'm runnin' no further.../I can't believe He's come to me/He's sayin' He loves me/A rebel son, with all I've done/But the Risen One/He holds out His hands to me". 'Decision Time' gives Bobby a choice: "One man has borne the cross/He was God, He took the loss and He broke the power of Satan/Crushed Him to the ground/Will you still conspire, consumed in holy fire/Is it evil or the truth you desire?/It's decision time.../Only Christ can save". The CD only bonus track 'Losin' Out' closes things out. It contrasts Christians with Christ: "But if they receive so freely why can't they as freely give?/And if their hearts are so full of Jesus why don't they freely love like He did?"

SEARCH & DESTROY is a must have album for fans of Christian hard rock and metal. It simply tells the story of a young guy who is troubled, going through life. He is caught in spiritual warfare. Satan tells him he's worth nothing and seeks the destruction of his soul. God calls out to him telling him he's of great value and is perfectly loved and can have eternal life through Christ. Each of us have to make a choice who we will ultimately give control of our lives to as well. The lead singer's voice reminds me a bit of Greg X. Volz if he were to sing this style of music, I'm rating this one 95%. For more info visit www.roxxproductions.com and connect with the band on social media.

FIRST LOVE

Larnelle Steward Harris was born on July 6, 1947 in Danville, Kentucky. In the 70's he put out a couple of albums with First Gear. He's also been a member of the Gaither Vocal Band. He released his solo debut, TELL IT TO JESUS, in 1975. In '83 and '85 he won Grammys for the duets with Sandi Patty, 'More Than Wonderful' and 'I've Just Seen Jesus'. Fast forward to 1998 and he put out FIRST LOVE (Brentwood). It was produced by Greg Nelson and executive produced by Dean Diehl.

Greg Nelson and David Hamilton wrote the album opener 'Blessing and Honor'. It's an upbeat praise and worship song: "Blessing and honor to our God/Lift up the name of Jesus/He has redeemed us from this world/He is the One who saves us/Oh, worthy is the Lamb to receive/Power, glory, and riches/Praise, wisdom, and might/Blessing and dominion/Now until forever". Vicki Hampton, Chris Rodriguez, and Bob Bailey provide backing vocals on 'Change in Me', a good pop song. These words speak of life transformation: "There's been a change in me/What more can I say?/I've got a brand new way of walking/And a brand new way of talking/He's given me the gift of eternity/It's easy to see that Jesus made this change in me".

The next two songs each surpass the six minute mark. Kyle Matthews wrote 'I Want to Go'. It desires fellowship: "I want to go where You are going, Lord/I want to be among Your people where You are/I cannot live my life alone/I don't know how/But You would not bring me this far to leave me now". 'When God Calls' was written by Greg Nelson and Bob Farrell. This inspirational number makes clear God's intentions towards us: "From that moment in the garden/When He first created man/He has longed that we should know Him/And prosper at His hand/So He draws us to His presence/And brings us to His light".

'Were it not for Grace' is a testimonial: "Were it not for grace/I can tell you where I'd be/Wandering down some pointless road to nowhere with my salvation up to me/I know how that would go/The battles I would face/Forever running but losing the race/Were it not for grace". 'Beginning With You' is one of two songs penned solely by Larnelle. It uses horns and additional vocals by NewSong Choral Ensemble. It's an upbeat pop song that urges us to action: "If you want a world that's more loving/Then you've got to love somebody/You want to be in a world that's more caring/Then reach out and help somebody/You'll make the world a better place/Beginning with you".

Next up is 'All Along the Way'. I love these words from this ballad: "All along the way His faithfulness remains/And all along the way/His message never changes/As I cried out to Him/With love He took me in/And I've been carried/All along the way". Larnelle, Dave Clark, and Don Koch wrote the title cut, 'First Love'. This pop song finds Larnelle wanting to come back to Christ: "I'm going back to my first love/For the fire burns and my heart still yearns to go back to my first love/I never should have walked away.../To find the peace that's waiting up ahead/I've got to go back to my first love".

'I Believe, Help My Unbelief' is a quiet song with lyrics many of us can relate to: "I believe, Lord, help my unbelief/Give the vision that I may see/That I am safe in Your care/Oh Lord, when I'm running ahead of You/When I'm trusting this world for truth/Remind me that You do what You say/And You're all that You claim/I believe, Lord, help my unbelief". Greg Nelson and Phil McHugh wrote the closing song 'Look at His Glorious Cross'. It points to Christ's sacrifice for us: "Look at His glorious cross/Here is the gateway to heaven/Opened at last for the lost/See such a price for the sins of mankind/And His love is paying the cost/Towering over history/Look at His glorious cross".

FIRST LOVE displays Larnelle's vocals wonderfully. Seven of the songs are inspirational, while three are pop. One main theme is a desire for fellowship with God and His people. Another is gratitude for salvation. What a wondrous gift! God totally changes our lives if we but let Him. He desires to be ever active in our lives. This album exalts the Lord Jesus Christ. I recommend it to fans of David Phelps and Twila Paris. It's getting a perfect 100% from me. For more info visit www.larnelle.com and connect with him on social media. There are several handsome pictures of Larnelle in the CD booklet.

I CAN BEGIN AGAIN

Larnelle Steward Harris was born on July 6, 1947 in Danville, Kentucky. In 1972 and 1974 he put out albums with the group First Gear. In 1975 he released his solo debut, TELL IT TO JESUS. Fast forward to 1989 and I CAN BEGIN AGAIN (Benson) came out. It was produced by Greg Nelson and executive produced by Dan Cleary.

Jerome Olds wrote the beautiful inspirational ballad 'Mighty Spirit'. It's one of spiritual invitation: "There is a mighty Spirit/Shining out across the sky/He's calling out the weary to green pastures come and lie/There is a mighty Spirit/Crossing barren land/He's sowing love unceasing/Fresh fruit spring from the sand (2X)". Larnelle co-wrote the title track, 'I Can Begin Again', with Dave Clark. Alan Pasqua plays the B-3 organ on this great adult contemporary ballad about second chances: "I can begin again with the passion of a child/My heart has caught a vision of a life that's still worthwhile/I can reach out again/Far beyond what I have done/Like a dreamer who's awakened to a life that's yet to come/For new beginnings are not just for the young". 'Friends in High Places' reflects on heavenly things: "I've got friends in high places/And I'm gonna be with them someday/There's the Father right by His Son/And the angels, each and everyone/And other friends I miss so much and I long to see/But knowing I'll be with them one day comforts me".

'In It After All' uses oboe, flute, bassoon, clarinet, and flugle horn. It's about the faithfulness of God: "So You were in it after all/All of those moments I spent crying/When something inside of me was dying/I didn't know that You heard me/Each time I called/You had a reason for those trials/It seems I grew stronger every mile/Now I know You were in it after all". Janet McMahan-Wilson and Ted Wilson wrote 'Let His Children Rejoice'. It's a good praise and worship song: "Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good/Come feast upon His Word/Tell of His wonders in all the earth/Let His Name be heard/Let His children rejoice/For He is Lord of creation/Let His children rejoice/And sing a song of salvation". First Call and Guy Penrod are among the backing vocalists on 'There is No Equal'. It's fast paced and testifies: "There is no equal to You O God/Above all others supremely You reign/The whole of heaven and earth stands in awe/There is no equal to You, O God/There is no equal/Without rival/No contender/Who is like You, O Lord".

'Rhoda' is the only song here solely penned by Larnelle. It uses horns and David Maddux provides backing vocals. This R&B cut draws from the New Testament: "Rhoda was so excited/And she shared it through many words/Though her testimony wasn't believed/She was convinced of what she'd heard/Peter kept right on knocking/With worry on His face/Finally Rhoda opened the door/And all of her doubters just stood there amazed". Next up is 'You're My Child'. I like this first verse: "As flowers long for sunshine/And as deserts thirst for rain/That's how much a Father longs/To shield His child from pain/That's not how life happens/Still I hope that you will see/That I am never far away/For you're a part of Me/You're my child". Last up is the Phil McHugh penned 'The Strength of the Lord'. It's a quiet song offering good advice: "It's not in trying but in trusting/It's not in running but in resting/Not in wondering but in praying/That we find the strength of the Lord/He's all we need/For our every need".

Seven of the nine songs on I CAN BEGIN AGAIN fall into the inspirational category, so Steve Green fans will be pleased. There's also one adult contemporary and one R&B song. Larnelle is a wonderful vocalist and has been in the Gaither Vocal Band. This album invites us to come to Christ and to start life over with a clean slate. God is faithful, good, and great. We can confidently put our trust in Him during life's difficult times. He hears our prayers even when it seems to us He doesn't. I'm rating this album a 95%. For more info visit www.larnelle.com and/or connect with him on social media.

THESE DAYS

Sandra Faye 'Sandi' Patty was born on July 12, 1956 in Oklahoma City. Her first album was 1978's FOR MY FRIENDS. Fast forward to 2000 and she released THESE DAYS (Word/Epic). In the liner notes, she writes: "Some people reflectively say, 'Ah...those were the good old days'. I must confess that while I treasure the memories of those days, I am enjoying the moments in these days. I want to find the joy in every situation in every moment of every day".

Eric Laughlin and Lori Lyon Kitts wrote the upbeat pop song 'Wouldn't Trade it for the World'. It testifies: "I wouldn't trade it for the world/This love You give me/Now I have a reason to sing/Look at how my heart leaps before You/You're music to me/I'm dancing to the rhythm of Your mercy/Movin' to the motion of Your grace/Livin' in Your presence/Wouldn't trade it for the world". 'Go Without Knowing' is an easy listening ballad featuring the Nashville String Machine. Sandi reveals her heart's desire: "If my life could be all my life should be/I would learn to trust God/At every turn/I would hear His words/And my heart would surrender then/Truly depend on Him/I'd go without knowing/Do without doubting/Face without fearing/Any road in front of me". 'Solo El Amor (Only Love)' is an adult contemporary bilingual duet with Miguel Angel Guerra. These are powerful lyrics: "For love He drank of His Father's cup/With all my shame on His shoulders/And He offered forgiveness through His shed blood/Tell me, is it any wonder that I've only known once in my lifetime love in its purest form?/He came here for me, suffered and then died/Under a crown of thorns".

Kathy Troccoli, Jeff Franzel, and Rick Witkowski wrote 'Shine'. The Kid Connection add vocals to this great pop song about fulfilling the Great Commission: "I want to be Your love for every soul/I want to be the hands that hold out hope/I want to bring Your life to every heart/If I could only mirror who You are/Let me be the star at night/Burning with eternal light/So high". Chris Eaton and Chris Rodriguez wrote 'Wings of Peace' on which Michelle Tumes and Brent Bourgeois sing backing vocals. It's easy listening and puts faith in the Lord: "Through every season one truth remains/You will always hide me in Your heart/You will always open up Your arms and carry me/High on Your wings on peace".

Ed DeGarmo and Bob Farrell wrote 'Once and For All'. It rejoices in the atonement: "Once and for all You gave it all/You held out Your hand to me/My destiny/You tore down the wall/Once and for all/Built between God and man/Love made me understand/You came, You died to save the world/For our hearts great and small/Once and for all". The next song, 'All This Time (Anna's Song)' is for Sandi's daughter. It's a tender, sentimental ballad: "Remembering the years/All this time/Moving through the pages of life/You have been a joy to me/Blooming in the sun and the rain/Holding you through laughter and pain/As you dance I delight/I have loved you all this time".

'Candles' uses a choir and classical guitar and includes vocals by Steve Crawford of Anointed. This melodic song is about making a difference for God: "Sometimes we're candles in the night/Shining someone home/We may not know their name/But we're praying for their soul/Cause we're candles in the night/Pushing back the dark/Reaching for their hearts/We're candles in the night". Next up is a cover of The Imperials classic 'One More Song For You' penned by Stormie and Michael Omartian. It's a light pop song about being a beacon: "As long as there is time and one more breath left in me/There will always be one more song for You/And as long as there is room/For one more song in praise/And a need for a word of love and truth/To help my brother and sister through/There'll be one more song for You".

'These Are the Days' is a quiet devotional song: "It's like the moment when the sun wakes up the night/I'm stretching out to heaven/Reaching for Your light/A chance to say 'I love You'/The perfect entrance to the day/And as I pray in Your quietness/Reflecting on Your grace/These are the days that I wish to never end/When I wake within Your presence/When we make the day begin". Last up is 'In the Calm'. Scott Krippayne and Tony Wood wrote it and John Catchings plays cello. It finds Sandi desiring intimacy with God: "Let Your Word speak to me/Let Your Spirit draw near/I will obey/The truth that I hear". 

THESE DAYS is a wonderful album comprised of seven easy listening and four pop songs. Eight of the eleven songs are slow. God's love and goodness towards us are celebrated! Calvary is pointed to as the place where God's love for us was fully displayed. The importance of sharing God's love with others is made clear here. God is worthy of our total trust in Him. This is, for the most part, a soothing and meditative album. Fans of Steve Green and Twila Paris should give this project, which I'm rating a perfect 100%, a listen. For more info visit www.sandipatty.com or connect with her on social media.

TURN UP THE MUSIC-THE HITS OF POINT OF GRACE

In 2011 Christian music superstars Point of Grace released their second greatest hits project, TURN UP THE MUSIC-THE HITS OF POINT OF GRACE (Word/Curb). In the liner notes they write: "Gratitude is the best word to describe how we feel about our fans. You continue to show up and bless us with your stories and smiles".

Starting things off is the Christa N. Wells/Tiffany Arbuckle Lee composition 'Day By Day'. It's a great praise and worship song: "Day by day, You're coming closer/Making our way clearer and straighter/Turning our faces into the light/And I can't wait to fall at Your glory/On my face/God of the morning/You're coming closer day by day". 'Circle of Friends' is about fellowship: "I spent so many lonely years just trying to fit in/Now I've found a place in this circle of friends/In a circle of friends we have one Father/In a circle of friends we share this prayer/That every orphaned soul will know and all will enter in/To the shelter of this circle of friends". An acoustic version of 'How You Live (Turn Up the Music)' is next. Cindy Morgan wrote it and it's about truly living: "Turn up the music, turn it up loud/Take a few chances, let it all out/You won't regret it/Lookin' back from where you have been/It's not who you knew and it's not what you did/It's how you live".

'Blue Skies' is an adult contemporary ballad addressed to God: "Lord, the sky's so blue/For my hope is in You/You're my joy/You're the dream that's still alive/Like the wind at my back and the sun on my face/You are life, You're grace/You are blue skies/You're my blue skies". One of my faves, 'The Great Divide', follows. It was penned by Grant Cunningham and Matt Huesmann. It speaks of God's great love for us: "There's a bridge to cross the great divide/A way was made to reach the other side/The mercy of the Father cost His Son His life/His love is deep, His love is wide/There's a cross to bridge the great divide/The cross that cost my Lord His life has given me mine". 'I Wish' is a nice country song. I like these lyrics: "I wish there was a cure for cancer/Wish somebody had an answer/And all God's children never got hurt/I wish Eve never bit that apple/Young men never went to battle/And I didn't get so mad at the world/I wish I was more like Jesus and could pick up all the pieces/And make a better life for my baby girl".

Paul Alan wrote 'Come to Jesus', an inspiring song: "We all fall down/We all need saving once in a while/You are not alone/We all lose faith and lean on mercy but through our darkest night/He said He'd wait for us/Come to Jesus". Robert Sterling and John Mandeville co-wrote one of the group's signature anthems, 'Jesus Will Still Be There'. It speaks of God's loyalty to us: "Jesus will still be there/His love will never change/Sure as the steady rain/Jesus will still be there/When no one else is true/He'll still be loving you/When it looks like you've lost it all/And you haven't got a prayer/Jesus will still be there". 'Who Am I' is a light pop song reflecting on the greatness of God: "Who am I to understand Your ways?/Who am I to give You anything but praise?/Who am I to try to solve the mystery behind the heart and soul of all that I believe?/Who am I?"

'I Choose You' was the title track of Point of Grace's 2004 album. It's a song of spiritual devotion: "And I choose You/All my attention, affection/And all my devotion's for You.../Before I chose You, You first chose me/I worship You, You alone are worthy/You are worthy". 'God is With Us' is an adult contemporary song about how God never leaves us: "Though the night is long and the river's strong/Still God is with us/We can stem the tide/Reach the other side/For God is with us". Cindy Morgan wrote 'King of the World' and Brown Bannister produced it. It's a sentimental ballad about the sweet relationship between a girl and her Dad over the years.

'Love and Laundry' is a good country song that comments on how busy we are today: "Oh, I wish that there were more than 24 hours in a day/I haven't found it yet, but there's got to be a way/And I keep praying that I can get everything done/And still have time for love and a load of laundry". Marshall Hall, Sam Mizell, and Antonio Neal wrote 'There is Nothing Greater Than Grace'. It's a slow ballad of encouragement: "There is no valley, there is no darkness/There is no sorrow greater than the grace Jesus". Last up is a new recording. It's in response to the 9/11 attacks. Don Henley and Glen Lewis Frey wrote it and the Eagles released it in 2003. It's called 'Hole in the World' and is slow country. This is the chorus: "There's a hole in the world tonight/There's a cloud of fear and sorrow/There's a hole in the world tonight/Don't let there be a hole in the world tomorrow".

I'm rating TURN UP THE MUSIC: THE HITS OF POINT OF GRACE an 87%. I'd rate it a bit higher if there were a few more faster numbers on it. There are ten adult contemporary, three country, and two pop songs presented here. The vocals are great. God's goodness and faithfulness are celebrated. He gives us salvation, mercy, and grace, through Calvary. Intimacy with God is to be treasured. The ladies also sing about everyday life and living it to the fullest. For more info visit www.pointofgrace.net and connect with them on social media.

CORNER OF EDEN

Kathleen Troccoli was born on June 24, 1958 in Brooklyn, New York. According to Wikipedia.org: "Her father died of colon cancer when she was 15, her mother died of breast cancer in 1991..." Her debut album was 1982's STUBBORN LOVE. Fast forward to 1998 and she released CORNER OF EDEN (Reunion Records). Produced by Nathan P. DiGesare, it won a Dove for 'Inspirational Album of the Year'.

'A Different Road' uses The Nashville String Machine and a choir directed by the now late Tom Howard. I really like these lyrics: "Don't want to live without/The peace that comes to me when I am by His side/I've known the freedom there/Can't find it anywhere/But in Christ Jesus.../I believe He's got a plan/Everything in His time/I may not always understand/Everything in His time (2X)". Natalie Grant provides backing vocals on 'At Your Mercy', an easy listening ballad. The chorus is a prayer: "Grace rain on me/Love surround me/Life restore me/Lord, forgive me/Peace flow through me/Hope come to me/Faith embrace me/Lord, I'm at Your mercy, mercy".

Steve Winwood plays B-3 and Michael Omartian keys on 'He Will Make A Way'. It's a great upbeat gospel number about God's faithfulness: "Don't you go believin' lies/He's not forgotten you/There's gonna be another/Higher, greater place He will take you to/Watch Him move mountains/Ride you through the waves/He can deliver in the darkest of days". Darwin Hobbs is a backing vocalist. Chris Rodriguez plays guitar on 'Psalm Twenty-Three'. It's a slow, quiet number that begins with Kathy speaking these words of encouragement: "I called and the Lord heard me/He is close to the broken hearted/And saves those who are crushed in spirit".

Next up is 'Goodbye For Now', a lovely ballad anticipating reunions in heaven: "But there will be a time when I'll see your face/And I'll hear your voice and there we will laugh again/And there will come a day when I'll hold you close/No more tears to cry 'cause we'll have forever/But I'll say goodbye for now". Penny whistle, viola, and violin are among the instruments used on 'We Will Know Love'. It's also about heaven: "We will be peaceful, there can be harmony/I will be hopeful for so much more/Oh, I am sure we will know love".

'Fill Me Up' is an adult pop song about desiring God's goodness: "You fill me up/Oh, I need so much love/It's a wonder that You meet me every time, yeah/You come to me/Breathe Your life over me/With a hope and promise pouring in my cup/You fill me up". The title track, 'Corner of Eden', follows. It was penned by Stephanie Lewis, Kathy, and Jeff Franzel. Gary Lunn plays bass on this pretty song that portrays God as giver of life: "I could weep at the thought that along my winding walk/It's Your grace I keep on receiving/You're the light shining gold/Making gardens in my soul/And through Your love/That goes beyond all reason/I have seen a Corner of Eden".

'When I Look At You' is a love song to Jesus: "Lord, when I look at You/My tears just melt away/A peace comes over me/And I don't feel afraid/Lord, when You look at me/I know I'm not alone/My spirit soars above the pain/My heart has known". Closing things out is 'Take Me With You', a tender song. I like these lyrics: "I know that You heal the broken hearted/I know that You reach for lonely souls/You will always love where hate is planted/And that's where I want to go/Take me with You (3X)".

CORNER OF EDEN was certainly worthy of winning the Dove Award it did. Kathy Troccoli is one of the best female vocalists around, that's for sure! The songs here are mostly inspirational and easy listening, with seven being ballads and three being faster. Kathy desires to walk closely with Jesus, having an intimate, vibrant relationship with Him. God is presented as our way maker, deliverer, and refuge. He is good and gives us life. The joy and bliss of heaven are also on Kathy's heart. I'm rating this album a perfect 100%. For more info visit www.kathytroccoli.com and/or connect with her on social media.

BORN AGAIN

Pete Orta was born on August 26, 1971 in Port Lavaca, Texas. He was a guitarist for Petra from 1996-2000. During that time I saw the band in London, Ontario on the Petra Praise 2 tour. Pete's also played guitar for Jaci Velasquez. In 2001 Pete released his solo debut, BORN AGAIN (Word). It was produced by Chris Rodriquez and Peter Kipley and executive produced by Judith Volz. Orta shares this in the liner notes: "This album is a musical outpouring of what God has done in my life..."

Desmond Child and Robbie Seidman wrote the opening pop/rock track 'You Make Me Feel'. It testifies: "When every little thing I do seems like it's meaningless/And my soul becomes consumed with doubt and emptiness/You know just how to touch me/You raise me from the dead/Oh, the way that You love me, love me/I believe (2X)/You make me feel something beautiful/You make me feel something real". Chris Rodriguez and Melody Chambers sing backing vocals on 'I See Love'. This pop ballad serves as a prayer: "Baptize me in the sea of forever gone/Take my sins/Completely cleanse all my wrongs/I see grace in Your face/When You look at me/I see love/Your soft love".

'Tomorrow's Sun' is a pop/dance track making use of the Roy G. Biv String Vibe. It's about giving oneself completely to God: "I'm making the choice to give my life away/I'll follow Your voice/Into another day/I'm not looking back/I'm leaving the ground.../Your strength is moving me somehow/I can do all things through You now". 'Use Me' is one of 3 selections solely penned by Pete Orta. It's an R & B song of one wanting to be a vessel: "Use me, use me/I will give my all/And I'll shake the ground/With a holy sound/All the walls will fall".

'Born Again' was penned by Natalie Hemby and Jay Joyce and was nominated for a Dove for 'Rock Recorded Song of the Year'. It's a joyful pop song about life transformation: "I was a dirty, messed up, little crazy kid/A runaway child in a bottomless pit.../I'm born again/I'm a new creation/I'm born again/I'm a new sensation". It's catchy! Abel Orta provides backing vocals on 'Something New'. It's a pop ballad about God's faithfulness: "Sometimes I fall, sometimes I fly/But You have been there to catch me/Every time/Sometimes I start/Sometimes I stall/But You have been right beside me/Through it all".

On 'Beautiful' Tim Akers plays piano and Dan Needham plays drums. It's a tender song of praise and worship: "I see Your world and it's so pretty/I see beautiful in You/Beautiful in Your world/Beautiful in You/Beautiful/When You touched my blind eyes/You brought breath to my soul". 'Broken' includes these opening lines which I like: "It's my cross/Where Your heart has bled/As my pride/Crowned Your lovely head/So take my wrongs and set a sinner free/Let these tears be the Jordan for me".

Chris Eaton and Ralph Van Manen co-wrote 'Shine'. It's an adult contemporary song of encouragement: "Sometimes the day seems like the night/Don't let the shadows cover the light/You've got to shine/Always let the flame burn so high/Cause when you shine/You set the world on fire". Last up is 'Liberty', a pop song of testimony: "I don't need these chains/I was meant to fly.../God has given life inside of me/And when I'm down I still believe/That's how I know I'm free (2X)".

BORN AGAIN is a really good CCM album that includes pop, rock, dance, R & B, adult contemporary, and praise and worship sounds. The main topic covered is the fact that Christ offers us hope and new life via Calvary. We can throw off our old man so to speak. We can delight ourselves in the Lord. He is faithful to us, forgiving  us when we sin and confess, and He helps us be a witness to the world. Pete's got a great voice! I'd like to hear a second solo album from him. For more info visit www.peteorta.com and connect with him on social media. I give this album an 88%.

VICE VERSES

According to Wikipedia, Switchfoot lead vocalist Jon Foreman says the following of the band's name: "We all love to surf and have been surfing all our lives so to us, the name made sense. To switch your feet means to take a new stance facing the opposite direction. It's about change and movement, a different way of approaching life and music". THE LEGEND OF CHIN (1997) was their debut studio album. They would go on to success in both the Christian and mainstream markets. Fast forward to 2011 and they put out their eighth studio album, VICE VERSES (lowercase people records/Atlantic). It was produced and mixed by Neal Avron and executive produced by Mike Ellzondo.

'Afterlife' is a rocker about living this life with passion: "Everyday/The world is made/A chance to change/But I feel the same/And I wonder/Why would I wait till I die to come alive?/I'm ready now/I'm not waiting for the afterlife". It was nominated for a Dove for 'Rock/Contemporary Song of the Year'. 'The Original' offers these words of encouragement: "So you say you're just a lost soul/I know you better than that/So you say you're just lost in the wash, oh/I know you better than that/So you say you're just a face in a city race/Wasted and sick of it all/Speak your mind up/Come on, baby free yourself".

'The War Inside' is a rock cut that serves as a rally cry: "Put your hands up, open up wide/Put your hands up, side by side/Age don't matter like/Race don't matter like/Place don't matter like what's inside/Yeah, every thought or deed/Yeah, every tree or seed/The big things come from the little dreams/Every world I made by make believe". Sara Watkins plays violin on 'Restless'. It anticipates heaven: "I can feel you reaching/Pushing through the ceiling/Till the final healing/I'm looking for you/Until the sea of glass we meet/At last completed and complete/Where tide and tear and pain subside/And laughter drinks them dry".

'Blinding Light' is a melodic rock ballad about finding true meaning in life: "I keep looking for the blinding light/I keep looking for the reason why/I keep looking for the sun to shine to take me higher and higher/All my life/I've been living in the darkest night/Still looking for the sun to rise/To take me higher and higher". 'Selling the News' is a funky rock track serving as a commentary on today's news media: "America listens, the story is told/With an eye on the truth as the story unfolds/But the ratings determine if story was sold/We're selling the news/Begging the question, mongering fears/Stroking the eyes and tickling ears/The truth is seldom just as it appears/We're selling the news".

Next up is 'Thrive'.  I like these brutally honest lyrics: "I've been awake for an hour or so/Checking for a pulse but I just don't know/Am I a man when I feel like a ghost?/The stranger in the mirror is wearing my clothes/No, I'm not alright/I know that I'm not right/A steering wheel don't mean you can drive/A warm body don't mean I'm alive/I want to thrive, not just survive". The album's first single was 'Dark Horses'. It's an energetic rocker about beating the odds: "We're singing, hey, you can't count us out/We've been running up against the crowd/Yeah, we are the dark horses/We're singing wait, it's not over now/We've been down but we've never been out/Yeah, we are the dark horses".

'Souvenirs' is a pretty ballad that speaks of innocence: "So I close my eyes and go back in time/I can see you smiling, so alive/I close my eyes and go back in time/You were just a child and so was I/We were so young/We had no idea that nothing lasts forever". 'Rise Above It' rocks and is another rally cry: "Hear our voices rise/Hear our battle cry/We've been under the curse/With our arms raised high/Hear us sing tonight/Like the last night on earth/We will rise/Like the tide/Like dead men coming back to life/We are rising, rising".

'Vice Verses' is a quiet tune that asks some great questions: "Where is God in the city life?/Where is God in the city light?/Where is God in the earthquake?/Where is God in the genocide?/Where are You in my broken heart?/Everything seems to fall apart/Everything feels rusted over/Tell me that You're there". Closing things out is the longest song on the album, 'Where I Belong'. It's almost seven minutes long. It anticipates our eternal home: "On the final day I die/I want to hold my head up high/I want to tell you that I tried to live it like a song/And when I reach the other side/I want to look you in the eye/And know that I've arrived in a world where I belong".

VICE VERSES is a great album of rock music comprised of an equal number of fast and slow songs. A main theme is being fully alive on this earth and being all that we were created to be. We should actively aim to discover the purpose for our lives and not just survive. There are also a couple of songs looking forward to heaven and one about how today's news media outlets have distinct spins on them. Jon Foreman's vocals are swell, as is the heavy electric guitar work. I'm rating this album 100%. The Deluxe Edition comes with a second disc. It's a live audio concert performance of Switchfoot's 2009 album HELLO HURRICANE at Center Stage in Atlanta, which collector's will appreciate. For more info visit www.switchfoot.com.

ALL THINGS POSSIBLE

Mark Mitchell Schultz was born in Kansas on September 16, 1970. In 2000 he put out his self-titled debut album. Fast forward to 2012 and he released his 7th studio album, ALL THINGS POSSIBLE (Fair Trade Services). Seth Mosley and Pete Kipley are the producers used.

First up is the title track, 'All Things Possible', written by Mark, Seth Mosley, and Tony Wood. It's a nice pop song of faith: "I know mountains can move/I've seen what You can do/In my weakness/So my heart will believe/If I wait I will see/My God doing what only He can do". Julia Ross is a backing vocalist. 'It is Well' puts full confidence in God: "When I'm on my knees and the storm won't cease/In Your shelter I am still/When my strength is gone/Oh, Your cross stands strong/And Your mercy never fails/It is well".

Mark co-wrote 'One Day' with Seth Mosley, Doug McKelvey, and Mia Fieldes. It anticipates a glorious tomorrow: "The lame will walk/The blind will see/The prisoners will be set free/And hope will rise as shadows disappear/And all that's lost/We'll find again/Death will die and tears will end/And we will come alive and truly live". 'I Gave Up' is a bouncy pop song with this catchy chorus: "I don't need a house on top of the world/I like the car I'm driving/Everything I got ain't what I'm worth/That's not the reason I'm living/I don't need to see my name in lights/Or leave any grand impression/I've got everything I need in life/If love's all we're taking to heaven".

Next we have 'Love Walked In', a beautiful ballad about the healing of relationships: "All alone in a cold white room/They've only given him a week or two/ And it's no surprise nobody calls/All he's got are regrets and tears/He hasn't spoken to his kids in years/But he just heard his daughter in the hall/Love walked in through the door/And face to face with brokenness/Said it's still worth fighting for". 'More to You than This' touches on premarital sex: "So maybe you thought/If you gave yourself away/He would stay/Maybe you felt it was worth the price you'd pay/And you tell yourself it doesn't really matter/But your heart will start to break".

Mark, Seth Mosley, and Phillip LaRue wrote 'Be Still'. It finds God speaking words of encouragement to us: "Even now there's a hand that's reaching out/Through the dark to a heart that's filled with doubt/I am here when the storm is raging/Let your soul be still/And know I'm God (2X)". 'What Do You Give A King' is a praise and worship ballad: "When He says that all your guilt and shame are washed away/And He has freed you from a debt that you could not repay/What do you give a King (2X)?"

Cindy Morgan, Mark, Tony Wood, and Don Poythress penned 'Haven't Met You Yet'. It's the song of a father to be: "I can just see it now/You're in your mama's arms and she's so proud/And when you smile it takes my breath away/Watching you laugh, you crawl/I don't remember life before you at all/And the funny thing is/I haven't even met you yet!" Last up is 'I Will Love You Still'. It's a quiet, tender ballad from God to us: "If ever you should fall/If ever you should break/If ever you should turn from me and slowly walk away/I will love you still". Gordon Mote plays piano and strings are used brilliantly.  

ALL THINGS POSSIBLE is a wonderful Christian adult pop album that also contains one praise and worship number. Mark's vocals are lovely. There are six slow songs and four fast. These songs make clear God's love and care for us and our worth to Him. We can be content by putting our full trust in God. Heaven awaits us! Mark also sings of restored relationships and parenthood. Fans of Michael W. Smith and Matthew West should give this one a listen. I'm rating it a perfect 100%. For more info visit www.markschultzmusic.com or find him on social media.

FACTS OF LOVE

According to her official bio, "Kim Boyce is a former Miss Florida and Top Ten Semi-Finalist in the Miss America Pageant". She was born on March 14, 1961 in Winter Haven, Florida. In 1986 she released her self-titled debut CCM album. What I will be reviewing here is her fifth studio album, FACTS OF LOVE (1992, Warner Bros.). In the liner notes, Kim shares: "Nothing can touch your heart and leave a lasting impression like love. This album, the result of many months of prayer, inspiration, laughter, and tears, has ten songs that in some way talk about love..."

First up is the Tom Snow/Jimmy Scott composition 'When Love Calls Your Name'. Cher had recorded it in 1991 and Kim Boyce took it to #1. It's a happy pop song: "When Love calls your name/There's no saying no/You follow your heart wherever it goes/To the ends of the earth/For the rest of your days/Whatever it takes, yeah, you'll find a way/Through fire and rain/When Love calls your name". Kim, hubby Gary Koreiba, Guy Penrod, and Chris Rodriguez sing backing vocals on 'Love Has Made the Difference'. It's a song celebrating one's relationship with God: "We've been through the laughter and tears/Still our love is growin'/When days turn to years/My heart will still be showin' that I'm thinkin' of You/The love that made the difference in me/Your love has made the difference in me".

'Everything' was penned by Kim, Scott MacLeod, and Trace Scarborough. It's a soulful pop ballad complete with a sax solo by Marty Paoletta. These words are ones of worship: "Lily of the valley/Bring and shining star/Baby in a manger/Lover of my heart/King of all creation/Knew my deepest need/In my darkest hour/He reached out for me". Phil Madeira plays the Hammond B-3 organ on 'Dancin' to the Beat of Your Heart'. It's an upbeat pop/dance song that rejoices: "Never been a moment of regret with You, Lord/Even when my life is filled with misery/Doesn't last for long because You're livin' in me/And I'm dancin', dancin' to the beat of Your heart/When my soul feels the Spirit/My feet have to start/Dancin' to the beat of Your heart".

Kim, Bryan Lenox, and Bo Cooper wrote 'Until Now'. It uses strings, oboe, and pipe organ by Bryan Lenox. Chris Rodriguez and Mark Pogue provide backing vocals. It's a beautiful ballad of praise: "Until now/I know Your love has saved me from the pain/Until now/Never knew someone like You/In Your arms,Your perfect love brings hope to me again/Never knew You could make a change somehow/Until now". The title track, 'Facts of Love', was a hit for Kim. Dann Huff and Gordon Kennedy play guitars on this peppy pop/rock number that testifies: "There's something different 'bout Your love/Feels like thunder's running through my veins/Like some kind of miracle's happenin'/Taking me up higher than I've ever been/There's a fire burnin' deep within/Think I must be learnin' the facts of love..."

'Hurting People' was penned by Kim and Julius Drummin. It's a funky pop song that encourages us to act: "If you love them/Won't you show them?/Then we'll help them/Help the hurting people/Will you reach out to their struggles?/Then we'll help them/Help the hurting people". 'I Just Wanna Live Right' finds Kim pouring out her heart: "I don't wanna be a hero/Just wanna share Him everywhere I go/Live my life and let people see/That there's really been a change in me".

What follows is 'Let's Stay Together', a Kim Boyce/Gary Koreiba/Phil Sillas effort. It's a light pop song that draws from history: "Elvis and Priscilla tried/He loved the girl until the day he died/But couldn't keep their love together, no/Let's stay together/Marilyn and DiMaggio/Gave it a try and then they let it go/Couldn't keep their love together, no/Let's stay together". Last up, 'Thank You For Being My Friend', is a quiet song for our Lord: "There was never a time when Your love was in doubt/Every tear that I've cried/You've known all about/There is no greater friend cause You laid down Your life/So with all my heart one more time/I'll try to say/Thank You for being my friend".

FACTS OF LOVE is a fun Christian pop record, with some adult contemporary and dance sounds mixed in. There are five fast songs and five slow ones. God's goodness, love, care, and salvation are proclaimed. God, in fact, calls out to us, His children. Following Christ and being spiritually devoted are encouraged. We should care for all of humanity and be witnesses for Jesus. The cover photo of Kim is absolutely beautiful! This is a good album to crank up as you are driving out and about. I'm rating it 90%. For more info visit www.kimboycemusic.com and/or connect with her on social media.