We're not going to sugar-coat this: New Zealand's Cassandra Kanda, known as
CASS, is cranking out some of the best Christian music you've never heard before. The entire NRT staff has been captivated by her debut album,
Genesis, which is full of infectious hooks, killer production and uncommon depth.
We had to know more about this phenomenal album from this fast-rising Kiwi, so we asked Kanda to share with us her thoughts about each of the songs from
Genesis.
1. "Illuminate (Na Na Na Na)"
"Illuminate" is the high-powered opener of the album Genesis, it sets the tone of the album with the theme of Genesis 1-3 resonating through the song. The production is a fusion unlike anything you've heard before. Its an album favourite due its originality and showing the theme of the book of Genesis in a new light.
2. "Stranger Things"
"Stranger Things" is a rap/hip-hop track but with a booming bass underlying a powerful declaration that God never changes who He is. It's an interesting mixture of dark minor chords but with light--for example, the song's line "Look at God He done did it!" It's a track which will have your head bopping throughout!
3. "Sticks & Stones"
"Sticks & Stones" is the album favourite to date due to its catchy chorus and electrifying drop. But what's more interesting aside from that is the theme. Based on Ezekiel 37, it follows through with the theme of Genesis by tying it with a chapter in the Bible that concludes with restoration.
4. "Worth Fighting For"
"Worth Fighting For" is a dancehall/pop track with more pop elements to it than dancehall. It's very catchy thanks to the inclusion of a Kygo-like drop. Not many songs like this can resonate with a secular audience whilst containing a strong message of hope like it does. It's bound to be a favourite once you listen to it.
5. "I Go Where U Go"
This is another dancehall track but with a more calypso vibe to it. Based on Psalm 23, it's a dance track that will make you want to move while affirming the message behind the song in the catchy hook. It's another crowd favourite due to it's not-so-in-your-face vibe, but it's very catchy and makes you want to dance as well!
6. "Crowns"
"Crowns" is a worship song based on a vulnerable point in my life--beginning the journey of following Jesus. It's a song of surrender, letting go of the things of this world. It's no ordinary worship song though, teamed up with R&B elements. It's an album favourite due to its melody and powerful lyrics.
7. "Testimony"
"Testimony" is a basically "Crowns" part 2. "Crowns" being the event of surrender and "Testimony" being the aftermath. Having experienced God's love, you can't help but tell someone about it. It's got jazz elements to it whilst keeping it upbeat somewhat with the synths to add the pop element to it.
8. "Can't Get Enough"
"Can't Get Enough" is a pop song, similar to "RTYA" with regard to the nostalgic representations in the production. It's got a catchy breakdown with a powerful declaration, "I can't get enough of Your love." It's a tune worth listening to and makes you want to dance no matter where you are!
9. "Long Time"
"Long Time" is a R&B/neo-soul song, similar to SPZRKT's music. It's a catchy chill track with an addictive hook. The song represents God's love and it's a reminder of the lengths God took to show HIs love. With booming bass to support this message, it's another favourite from the album.
10. "RTYA"
"RTYA" is a pop song with nostalgic elements to it. I drew a lot from '80s pop and production and melodies. With lyrics like, "I was lost in the maze of life, You came and found me," the song is based of the theme of the Prodigal Son. The whole theme of the song is a conclusion of the album--restoration and freedom found when you come alive in Christ.
Take a listen here:
