With career sales exceeding 450,000 units, the acoustic guitar-wielding, Texas-based duo Shane & Shane returns with its eighth album, Everything Is Different, releasing Nov. 3, 2009. Produced by Pete Kipley (MercyMe, Kutless, Phil Wickham) the album embraces a more corporate worship style, inspired by Shane Barnard and Shane Everett's role as worship leaders at their home church in Dallas. Influenced by the pair’s ongoing involvement in teaching, training and discipling students in the area of worship ministry, Everything Is Different offers moments that range from vertical praise to quiet reflection. Songs include “You Have Resurrected My Heart,” “Rain Down,” “Everything is Different,” “Great Reward,” “For The Good,” “Turn Down the Music,” “You Say I’m Rich,” “The Lord’s Prayer,” “Enlarge My Heart,” “Psalm 73 (You Are My Portion),” “This Is Who I Am,” and “Worthy of Affection.” The record’s title track and debut single will be serviced to Christian Adult Contemporary radio this October
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(I give fair reviews, masterpieces get 5)| Posted October 26, 2009
3.5 out of 5 stars
The Texas acoustic gospel duo of Shane Everett and Shane Barnard produce some of the most spell-bounding music in the industry. Onlookers throughout the music industry have noticed how Shane & Shane not only play their acoustic guitar more uniquely than most mainstream rockers know how, but they sing some of the most impressive and beautiful harmonies ever put to tape. Altogether, their music is completely singular and I have personally seen this band live. It was one of the most impressive, magical performances I have ever seen musicians give. The music is simple but spectacular. The lyrics are often biblically-based, but never dull. And as said, the harmonies never fail to reach the heights of heaven. This band is not just something Christians can enjoy listening to: it in fact should be essential listening for anyone who wishes to be a guitarist or singer.
Their 2009 record Everything is Different begins with the energy-full title track that contains all of the greatness mentioned above along with guitars similar to a stripped-down John Mayer. The next track, titled “The Lord’s Prayer” effectively uses the famed verse as its lyric, which is quite ingenious because most listeners will hear this great song for the first time already knowing the lyrics.
Much of the album follows it suit, with the songs containing a backdrop of mainly acoustic guitars and the two vocalists almost always singing over one another. The lyrics can sometimes be as simple as the refrain of “I love you, Lord,” but each song offers up its share of insight and honest reflection. This simple formula, with songs written by two visionary and spiritual worship leaders, always leads to good music, but the results rarely yield surprises. On the other hand, multiple listens of each song will surely lead to the revelation of not only more insight but also brilliant little moments of music that are well-crafted and subtly performed.
The album does have some surprises though. One such surprise is “My Portion,” the bluesy tune with tinges of organ and musical interludes setting it apart from the pack. Electric instruments finally come near the end, packing a Starfield-like punch with the powerful “My Hope is Built.” But with the fact that so few songs have stand-out qualities, the numbers can easily bleed together and lead to a partially boring listening experience if taken in one big dose.
This album nearly reaches the rare feat of every song being great; unfortunately, “This is Who I Am” is simply good, filled to the brim with violins and cliches. Nevertheless, this album secures Shane & Shane’s spot as ever-growing musicians and leaders who are some of the best harmonists in the business. It’s a little unfortunate that the album ends with three pointless radio edits of songs already heard on the album, but at least listeners can rest assured that the album’s three most energetic (acoustic) songs will soon be hitting the radio: the title track, “I’m Alive,” and “Rain Down.” These songs are far from being the essential Shane and Shane compositions, so I highly suggest that if you aren’t interested in this album, go hear their songs “Burn Us Up,” “May the Few,” “I Miss You,” and their so-great-it’s-flabbergasting rendition of “O Holy Night.” And if you ever get the chance to see these guys live, take it. You won’t be disappointed.
Nice listening| Posted October 25, 2009
I wish this free preview of the CD would give titles of songs!I really like the fact that there are two lead vocals and lots of acoustic guitars. This CD is on the mellow side. Nice to kick back and listen.
Love IT| Posted October 23, 2009
I really like the new cd overall but some songs I am sure will grow on me. Their sound and vocal abilities continue to amaze me. Shane Everett continues to set the bar for singing insanely high harmonies and their blend will always be darn near perfect. The style and sound of each song is very different from the other and I think it works well. My favorite track would definitely be "The Lords Prayer" I have never heard anyone attempt to put music to the Lords PRayer before. I was pleasently surprised and blessed.
Recommend this album to your friends and family. I guarantee this will bless someone.
Shane and Shane have always been phenominal in their Albums and will continue to produce beautiful harmonies, lyrics and sound.
A Great Worship Album| Posted October 23, 2009
I was introduced to Shane & Shane a few years back and have since become a big fan! They have a great talent and a true Love for Christ that just shines bright in every album; they're Christmas album last year, same thing! This one is a great worship, that reminds us of who He is, and why He is to be Praised!
Best Album of the Year!| Posted October 22, 2009
It is rare that you come across an album that resonates with such God-honoring messages from track to track. From the anthemic "Everything is Different" that is an instant hit in any worship service, to the mission minded "Turn Down the Music" this album shines with the passion these two guys have for God's glory and man's satisfaction! I'm Alive is sure to get you singing. "The Lord's Prayer" is a great adaption of the sacred text it's based on! "Psalm 73" is a great example of why Shane and Shane are the standard in adapting scripture to singable melodies! This album also exhibits their soaring harmonies, and unique acoustic guitar sensibilities. Every Track will leave you longing for more of Christ! "Turn down the Music" is possibly the most powerful song I've heard in recent years! It left me with tears the first time I heard it! Shane and Shane have proven that they aren't shaped or conformed by popular fashions or trends, but remain fresh and passionate for loving Jesus and spreading His joy!
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