God With Us
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Laura Laura Story has become a champion in the female vocalist community within the last several years. From her powerful songwriting for other artists (such as on
One of the Best Female Vocalist Debuts of 2012! | Posted April-07-2012
Early last year, I attended a MercyMe concert where a local teenage girl by the name of Moriah Peters was performing as the lights-up act. She'd won a radio contest a few days prior that had enabled her the opportunity to open for the band. She only sang three songs that night, but something about her bright personality and genuine excitement drew the audience in from the first note she strummed on her guitar. Her vocals were clean, her lyrics were authentic and the 13,000-person crowd stood to their feet with an ovation as she exited the stage.
I'd seen plenty of contest winners in her position before, but none had given the memorable performance like she had. I remember hoping there were label executives in the crowd that night, because if anyone deserved to have a record real, it was she.
Little did I know what I do now about the 19-year-old hailing from Southern California. The truth is, Moriah isn't new to the world of music. As a matter of fact, having grown up as a budding singer/songwriter, half of her senior year of high school was spent auditioning for American Idol. Growing up in a devoutly Christian home, Moriah's motives for making music were obviously different than the thousands with whom she was competing--so much so, that when it came to the final rounds of pre-judging for the popular program, the producers eliminated her on the grounds that she was too moralistic.
While that might sound like an discouraging experience, God was already at work making something beautiful out of the situation. Through a series of seemingly miraculous events following the Idol rejection, Moriah was introduced to Wendy Foy of former CCM group Sierra, who got her in touch with labels in the Nashville music industry.
One crazy year later, Moriah is now the latest artist on the Provident Records roster and is making her first big splash in the Christian music world with her debut album, I Choose Jesus, a title that clearly holds a personal meaning for the young songstress.
"I'm so excited about this project--and that song in particular," she explains. "It's the song that represents who I'm called to be, not only as an artist, but as a daughter of Christ. I'm called to be bold. I'm called to be strong and I'm called to speak the truth in love about who God is and what He's done in my life."
"Know Us By Our Love" starts this album off on a high note, with a clear message that people will never know Jesus until we genuinely show them His love. Musically, it's very airy, bringing to mind the musical stylings of fellow female vocalist Jamie Grace.
The quirky "Well Done" will go down as the song every listener will get stuck in their head with it's infectious upbeat melody. It's a bold statement against the world's idea of a job well done, and states that the only "well done" worth hearing is from the Creator Himself. "Sing In The Rain" takes the popular motto of learning to dance in the rain and runs with it in a fun yet convicting manner: "We all want the easy way, no one ever prays for pain, they'd rather live the charmed life, but like a seed in the earth, if I'm gonna grow, it's gonna hurt, but after, You'll bring sunlight…"
The moving title track, "I Choose Jesus," stands apart from the rest of the album, serving as an intense moment of whole hearted abandon. It will become a powerful anthem for believers struggling with naysayers in their lives and serve as a solid reminder that the reason we can chose Jesus, is because He first chose us.
"We Haven't Even Kissed" is a sweet love song and an openly personal track, Moriah having taken an outspoken stance to wait until she's married to have her first kiss. It will become an instant hit among the girls in her audience and shares a great message regarding romance and purity--a refreshing change from the message mainstream culture is sending young women.
"All The Ways He Loves" is a genuine pop hit talking about the love the Father has for us. "Glow" takes a bold stand against apathy and reminds believers that they are means to be the light shining in the darkness, while "Miracle Of Love" is a melodically autobiographical tune sharing Moriah's salvation story.
"No Shame" is a song that every listener with resonate with. It talks about someone who has regrettably repeated a sin they swore they'd never repeat, only to feel like they've fallen too far from God's grace. The chorus becomes lullaby-like as it offers the powerful yet true reminder that there is no shame in Christ, and in Him, we can find endless mercy and eternal forgiveness.
The album comes to a close on a profound note with "Bloom," the standout track on the record and one of the most original pop songs CCM has seen in quite some time. Beautifully haunting, the lyrics serve as a reminder that no matter the storms you're enduring, the sun will shine again, and your life will bloom as a result of the rain. This song has a ton of potential for outside exposure and I hope to eventually see it released as a single.
Closing Thoughts:
Thanks to voices like Adele and Sara Bareilles, the uprising of organic female pop artists in recent years has been nothing short of phenomenal. In a world that screams "sex sells," these women are finding a great deal of success due to their refreshing concept of depth and class. While discretion has never been an issue for Christian music, the same musical mantra of "less is more" is finding its way into more and more female vocalists' albums. Among many of these women, Moriah Peters serves as a breath of fresh air--taking the same ideas as her counterparts, but spinning them a fresh, youthful and creative way.
I Choose Jesus is quite possibly the best debut from a female vocalist Christian music has seen since Francesca Battistelli's My Paper Heart back in 2008. Musically fun, relevant and inspiring, Moriah's passion is evident on each track and her personal convictions coming as the driving force behind the lyrics take each song and send it soaring to new heights. This will undoubtedly go down as one of my top 10 albums of 2012, and I hope to see this debut catapult her to the same level of success the aforementioned Battistelli found with hers.
This is a shimmering start for what is potentially one of the greatest careers CCM has seen in years, and it will be a treat to sit back and continue to watch Moriah's musical journey unfold. If this album is any indication of her future, I guarantee it will be nothing short of spectacular.
An Emotional Musical Backdrop | Posted April-03-2012 Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
Music is what helps tell our story. Often times, artists are able to communicate more in a three-minute song than we are in an endless outpouring of emotion. The melodies that penetrate our senses alongside the words that express how we’re feeling often become the soundtrack to our lives, helping us to walk through the good and the bad, all culminating our life into the beautiful journey it is.
Perhaps this is the reason why the music we hear in movies moves us on such a profound level. Often times, it sets the mood for the story unfolding on the screen and captures our emotions with an intensity the actors on screen are unable to do on their own. It becomes something powerful, something personal, and something we can all understand.
“October Baby” is a brand new faith-based film by Dove Award winning writer/directors Jon and Andy Erwin. The story chronicles the life of a teenage girl named Hannah, who sets off on a journey to find her birth mother after discovering she was adopted and is the product of a botched abortion. That might not sound like a typical plot for a coming-of-age love story, but keep in mind, “October Baby” isn’t your typical movie. While it doesn’t shy away from the haunting aftermath those effected by abortion face, it more than anything, sends an incredible message of love and forgiveness, sharing with the audience that indeed, “every life is beautiful.”
As a moviegoer, I was moved on a deeply profound level by this picture. I’ve never been directly effected by abortion, but it seriously made me stop and think about the sanctity of life, the power of love and beauty of forgiveness--messages we can all stand to be reminded of.
While the plot is breathtaking, the acting is superb and the cinematography is top notch, I’d be lying if I didn’t say that one of the main reasons this film impacted me was because of the beautiful music interwoven into each scene. A song can say so much with so little, such is the case with “October Baby.”
I ran home after seeing the movie and immediately began surfing the web for songs and artists played in the film. To my great delight, I soon discovered that the October Baby Motion Picture Soundtrack would be releasing a few short weeks after the films’ release--chock full of incredible music by bands you already know and love, and a few others you’ll be discovering for the very first time.
Among the list of popular tunes you’ll on this compilation, are “Now More Than Ever” by Brandon Heath and “Hold My Heart” by Tenth Avenue North. Neither song was played during the film, but they both landed coveted spots in the movie trailers and attracted the Christian audience immediately with their familiar melodies.
Chris Sligh plays dual roles in this film, both as an actor (playing the eccentric and lovable character of “B-Mac“) as well a contributing musician with a whopping three songs on the soundtrack, with “Willow Tree” being a track he wrote specifically for the movie.
“Broken (Beautiful),” a tune from his The Anatomy Of Broken project is gonna garner a lot of attention due to its perfect placement in the film, it moving myself and many others to tears as the film came to a triumphant close.
What I love about the music in this movie was that the filmmakers not only gave a shout out to the CCM world, but that they also introduced the audience to some incredible indie artists which they might not have discovered otherwise.
A few of those showcased include “Hesitate” by Steve Moakler, “When A Heart Breaks” by Ben Rector and the wonderful “Where You Are” by Mandi Mapes. Mapes song was one of my favorite and most-played songs on the entire project. Andrew Belle also deserves an honorable mention with the inclusion of three tracks, “Make It Without You” and “My Oldest Friend" being my personal favorites.
A highlight I feel deserves to be mentioned is the inclusion of the stunning “Ocean Floor” by singer/songwriter Gianna Jessen. This song holds a personal meaning for the picture, seeing as it was Gianna’s life story that inspired the Erwin Brothers to make the film.
Jessen is a survivor of a saline abortion back in the late 1970s and has had the privilege to speak all over the world to presidents and dignitaries, sharing her story of hope, healing and forgiveness. “Ocean Floor,” written by longtime friend Michael Logan, will be the song everyone will remember from the film with it s passion and moving melody. It sums up the moral of the film wonderfully and sparks curiosity into Jessen’s personal journey. I encourage all of you to look her up and read her amazing story. It takes the film, and the song, to a whole new level.
The standalone on this project for me comes in the from of “Life Is Beautiful,” a song Dove Award winning CCM group The Afters penned just for the movie, playing appropriately during the credits. It takes the tagline of the movie and creates a masterpiece singing out all of the moments we experience in life, both painful and breathtaking, linking to create the beautiful story of living. It is hands down one of the best songs the band has written to date: “A father’s love, a wedding dance, new years dreams, a toast with friends, a solder coming home from war, a faith, a hope for so much more, a brand new life, a mother’s prayer, shooting stars, ocean air, a lovers kiss and hard goodbyes, fireworks, Christmas lights, these are the things that makes us a feel alive…”
Clothing Thoughts:
I’m not a movie buff, but it seems to me that the art of soundtracks are slowly dying. Nowadays, it feels like songs are forced into films to fill dead air and carry no real significance to the story. In the case of “October Baby” however, nothing could be farther from the truth. I applaud the crew on the musical end for creating one of the most original soundtracks Hollywood has seen in years, Christian film or not. Each song portrays the setting of the scene perfectly. It’s hard to separate the music from the moment, they truly become one and create the setting for healing to take place in the hearts of the audience.
My only complaint is that I really would have liked to seen the score of the movie included, but regardless, with the meaty material you’ll on this compilation, you’ll have too much to chew on to miss it. The October Baby Motion Picture Soundtrack moved me to tears several times while listening, just as the film did, and yet again, reminded me of the beauty of life. Whether you’ve seen the movie and want a carry a little piece of it with you, or you’re interested in hearing some of these fresh new faces, this is well worth your time and money to give it a listen. You won’t be disappointed.
The Face of the CCM Hip-Hop Movement | Posted March-19-2012 Flame needs no introduction to the longtime rap fan. Having started back in 2005, he has released five full-length albums packed with lyrical punch and chock full of musical meatiness. Garnering multiple Dove and Stellar Award nominations over the course of his career, his biggest release came with 2010’s Captured, his first endeavor on Clear Sight Records--a label he founded. It landed all over Billboard charts--Christian and mainstream alike--during its first week in release, and garnered him the successful rap single, “Surrender,” featuring young up-and-coming Clear Sight singer V.Rose.
Taking a thematic approach to his sixth album, the appropriately titled The 6th, Flame chose to focus on the state of mankind.
“Really, it’s a study of anthropology as we look at mankind from many different angles,” he says, “God deposited so much meaning--and purpose--into us as humans. So I wanted to explore what that means. Are we still where He intended us to be? How far have we actually fallen from the pace, and how do we return to our original purpose? Those are the questions I explore in this album.”
The 6th stars off with the blaring “Try Me,” about the world trying to keep believers down, but God pulling them though, and transitions right into the project’s musical focal point, “The 6th Day,” reminding the human race of our purpose in life and of our God’s incredible love for us.
“The Great Deception”--coming almost as a sequel to the previous track--talks about the fall of man in the Garden of Eden. It’s a heavy song, but it ends with the ever present reminder that Christ came to break the curse of Adam over our lives and eternally set us free.
The punchy “Show Out,” featuring GRAMMY Award-nominated artist Lecrae, tackles the issue of pride and sends a much-needed reminder that it’s God who deserves the glory. This is an issue both rappers talk about constantly on each of their albums, so it’s only fitting that they would come together and produce something spectacular regarding the subject.
Other songs on the album such as “Scripture Alone”, “Christ Alone”, “Running”, “Against The World” and “Let Go”--a brilliant duet with CCM Southern rock group DecembeRadio--serve as three-minute musical sermons of sorts. They all ultimately lead us back to a place of surrender before God, and do so in a fresh and relevant way that never loses your attention.
It’s clear to see how much Flame has spiritually and lyrically matured since his last album, but there are still a few clarification issues on this project that are hard to overlook. Songs such as “Trap Money” (about the deceitfulness of riches), “Caught In The Lights” (another duet with V.Rose) and the haunting “Devil’s Bread” unfortunately send muddled messages to the listener. While it’s clear Flame has a boldly honest approach to his lyrics, they could be perceived by some as too aggressive and judgmental. (For example, “Caught In The Lights” talks about giving up on dreams. He’s talking about giving up on the world’s dreams, but it could easily be taken as giving up on one’s own.)
The true highlight on this record however comes in the quirky “He Did It Again” with rapper AD3, reminiscing our past lives without Christ and sharing the truth that living with Christ as our Savior is what gives our lives meaning. It stands apart from the other rap-focused moments on this record and uses a techno/pop beat to amplify the positive message in the lyrics. It has the appeal to become a radio hit if released, and I would love to see that happen.
Closing Thoughts:
Flame has established a name for himself in the Christian hip-hop/rap community and for good reason. His melodies are top-notch and his rhyming skills are unrivaled. Fans of this genre of music will love the relevant beats and passionate tunes found on this project. Still, while a phenomenal album from a musical standpoint, the lyrics tend to be foggy. While unintentional, many of the songs end up sending mixed messages, often sounding brash and condemning all the while singing about God‘s unchanging love. I suppose it’s all in the ear of the beholder, and regardless, The 6th serves up some of the most honest and thought provoking lyrics of Flame’s fast rising career.
For anyone who is looking to discover the urban movement happening in CCM, The 6th serves as a perfect place to start. Fresh, relevant and honest, fans of this style will love Flame’s bold delivery and world class approach to his music.
Battle Songs from the Top of the Mountain | Posted March-19-2012 Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars.
If there is anything Canadian born Chris Greenwood, aka Christian music rap sensation “Manafest,” has come to realize in the past few decades, it’s that life is a fight--not in the physical sense, but rather, the spiritual.
At only 5 years old, his father took his own life, that being the catalyst for what became a teenage life filled with quiet fear and insecurity. After an injury robbed him of what looked like a potential future in the professional skateboarding world, Manafest would soon turn to music as his channel for therapy. Little did he know then that God would usher in his spiritual healing, as well as the healing of thousands of others, through those early days of songwriting.
Seven years, five albums, and 12 Covenant Awards later, Manafest has gone on to become one of the most noted rappers in the industry--and for good reason. While his innovative fusion of hip-hop-meets-rock is partially to blame, it’s his lyrical honestly about shortcomings and in-your-face message of truth that steal the show. His 2010 project, The Chase, earned him some much due recognition in the American CCM world, and ever since, he been riding a wave of continued global success. (“The Chase” has become a massive success in Japan.)
As much of a fairytale as this all seems, his victories haven’t come without a fair share of struggle. “Whether it’s family, personal, or professional, it’s been a fight,” he explains. “I’ve had
the willingness to bear pain to get through all this, and I’m winning now.”
This prize fighter-like mentality inspired his latest effort, 2012’s Fighter, focusing on the themes of fighting our way through life and finding our victory in Christ. Produced by acclaimed mainstream and Christian music producers Adam Messinger (Justin Bieber, Chris Brown, JoJo) and Seth Mosley (Newsboys, Me In Motion, Peter Furler) this progressive rock/rap journey of honest faith is unlike anything you’ve heard Manafest do before.
The albums kicks off with the title track “Fighter,” encouraging the listener to get back up after past defeats that have knocked them down. It’s one of the strongest songs of his concise career and has some major potential for crossover success. “Throw It Away” comes from an obviously personal place, it being a message to the listener that throwing life away isn’t worth it--how pain is fleeting, and life is meant to be lived through the good and the bad.
“Pushover,” written after a childhood of bullying, is Manafest’s cry to the misfits of our generation, telling them not to buy into the lies of who others say they are, but instead, to stand in their God-given identity. The gritty and lyrically candid “Human,” talks about the ugly side of human nature, and how we desperately need the grace of a Savior. The smoking track “Come Alive,” comes next, and it’s about not living as a victim of past choices, but rather, a warrior, moving beyond mistakes.
“Never Let You Go” becomes a trench song of sorts, encouraging those who are ready to give up to stay strong and listen to the voice of God who tells us to hang on. It’s a striking reminder that God is with us, even when we don’t feel like He is: “When you’re scared and you can’t see past a day, remember who holds tomorrow, reach out in the darkness, hold on, it’s all worth fighting for, I will never let you go.”
“Not Alone” speaks of bring in a place of total desperation and the need for God in our lives. The musical bar brawl “Prison Break,” is about breaking out of the chains of our past and walking in the freedom only Christ can offer, and drives right into the poignant and punchy “Heart Attack,” a bold tune about finding true life in Jesus.
“Will You Catch Me” serves as the most vulnerable song on the album, asking God to be there for us when no one else is, to call us by name and hold us when we feel alone. It has the appeal to become a hit on Christian radio, and I’d like to see it get the airtime it deserves with its real and germane lyrics. Bringing this project to an end is an acoustic bonus version of “Never Let You Go,” which I almost prefer over the previous version. Besides it taking the lyrics to a whole new level, it showcases a different, softer side of Manafest I’d really like to see on future efforts.
Closing Thoughts:
The album cover art is a perfect representation of the journey you’re in for with this with project. Musically scaling the side of a mountain, it shares the struggles, temptations, fights and weakness we face as we go about life, but ultimately, standing strong in our faith and watching as God guides us to the mountaintop. Lyrically intense, the musicianship on this record is nearly flawless. Longtime fans will be blown away by Manafest’s musical evolution, throwing hard rock elements against his signature flow, almost mimicking the transformation acts like Thousand Foot Krutch have made over the course of their last several albums. Arguably better than most Top 40 rock, fans of the genre will NOT want to pass this up, and I hope to see several of these songs go on to gain major mainstream exposure.
Fighter is hands down Manafest’s most valiant effort to date, and would be a wise investment of your time to give it a listen. Raw and rock savvy, I guarantee you will not be disappointed.
Jimmy's Best Effort To Date | Posted March-19-2012 A few years back, my church had the pleasure of hosting Jimmy Needham in concert. I ended up helping out at his merchandise table that night and embarrassingly felt unqualified--seeing as I hardly knew any of his songs other than the few I’d heard on the radio. Little did I know I’d be schooled by a legion of diehard fans that night telling me just how amazing his heart for ministry was. As I interacted with the people who knew his music and peeked inside to see some of the show, it didn’t take me very long to see how right they were. He instantly won me over.
That was nearly three years ago, and while much has changed since then, Needham’s heart for the music he creates hasn’t. He found a great deal of success with his 2010 album, Nightlights--featuring the popular song “Grace Amazing” with Trip Lee. Fans were eager to hear how he was going to follow it up, especially since the singer--who openly wears his heart on his sleeve--has experienced so much since its release, personally speaking.
"All of the facets of my personal life keep leading me to an expanding view of Christ,” he explains. “In every way I attempt to navigate life, my only satisfaction--the only true answers--will be found in Christ.”
Known for his eclectic mix of blue-eyed soul and groove-driven pop, his latest effort, Clear The Stage, comes as his most musically diverse and lyrically vulnerable project to date.
“I hope that I’ve changed since the last record, but I know I have. I’m more aware of my desperate need for Jesus in everything that I do. In every circumstance that’s thrown my way. The most important takeaway that anyone can get from this record is to see Jesus as so satisfying, that every other pursuit or effort to make our lives better seems dull compared to life in His presence.”
Starting this album off with a bang is the funky and irresistibly infectious “I Will Find You,” featuring a stunning guest rap from GRAMMY Award-nominated Christian hip hop phenomenon, Lecrae. The song, which talks about our need for a savior, is quite possibly his best song to date and has enough mainstream appeal to reach beyond the faith-based audience.
“If I Ever Needed Grace” gives you your first taste of the musical grab-bag you’re in for with this project, slowing the pace way down and turning into an intimate moment of vulnerability before the Creator. “Daddy’s Baby Girl” will no doubt become an instant classic for fathers with daughters. Written for his own little girl, Lively, Jimmy expresses all the quirky and heartwarming antics that go along with being a father, including the reality he will one day have to let her go. It’s a very fun song with a sweet and relatable message.
The soulful “Rock Bottom” talks about the incomprehensible character of our God, and transitions nicely into the airy “Stay,” a duet with female vocalist Lizi Bailey from the duo, Matthew and Lizi. The song touches on the personal relationship we all have with God and does so in a beautiful manner. Lizi’s vocals also add a wonderful depth to the song, which might otherwise been seen as too mellow.
The true standout track on this project comes next with “In The Middle,“ which talks about continuing to believe in God’s sovereignty even after tragedy strikes. One can only assume it was written for his wife Kelly, after the couple endured multiple miscarriages prior to the birth of their daughter. The solemn melody collides beautifully with the raw and tender lyrics, offering every listener a simple reminder of God’s never changing love for us, no matter what pain they might be facing: “I believe that God was there watching over us, I believe He heard our prayers, He cried along with us, even when our hearts are scared, He’s closer then He seems…”
The groove-laden “Arrows” picks up the tempo a bit, talking about how everything beautiful we experience in life ultimately points back to the Creator, while “My Victory” focuses on the freedom found in Christ. “The Only One” serves as the deepest cut on the record, talking about the idols we serve whom we hope will give us fulfillment, when all the along, Jesus is the only one who will truly satisfy us.
The album comes to an end with the melodically haunting namesake, “Clear The Stage.” Following up on the thoughts found in the previous song, it comes as a personal cry unto God to strip us of everything that would take our eyes off of Him and help us to sit and soak in Him and who He is. It’s a heavy way to end a hopeful album, but does so in a way that doesn’t leave you feeling bogged down, but rather, convicted to seek God more ardently.
Closing Thoughts:
Fun, funky and full of faith, Clear The Stage is undoubtedly Jimmy Needham’s finest work to date. It paints a clear picture of what his own personal journey with Christ has looked like over the past several years, and ushers in all all-too-brief musical experience for listener, challenging them to set their focus on things above, all while enjoying the special moments life has to offer. Raw and thought-provoking lyrically, it also boasts a musical showcase secular counterparts might want to take note of, serving as one of the most diverse albums I’ve heard in quite some time. Overall, this album does not disappoint and will be a hard one to follow up, but if anyone can do it, it’s Jimmy Needham.
Another Solid Reimagining | Posted March-16-2012 It’s rarity that a remix album of any sort goes on to achieve a high amount of success. Typically, they’re a nonchalant side project an artist releases in between albums to offer a fresh take on some of their staple songs. They hardly sell well, are never played on radio and if anything, mainly go on become a collectors piece for diehard fans to enjoy.
And then you have tobyMac, whose 20-years-plus career in music has been anything but “typical.”
Back in 2003, he released ReMix:Momentum, taking songs off his first solo effort, Momentum, and giving them the tobyMac treatment with a funky, fresh edge. The album was a hit and the remix of “Love Is In The House” became a favorite among fans, even incorporating it into his live show for a number of years.
Having found a niche, a sequel titled Renovating Diverse City, came a few years later, taking the same approach by remixing songs off his critically acclaimed Welcome To Diverse City album. Again, the album found a large amount of success and the New Wave remix of his song “Burn For You,” became one of the most played CHR songs of 2005.
Fans were surprised when two more studio albums went by without the release of another remix project. It had become a custom they’d grown to love. Unlike so many of his fellow artists, Toby’s approach to his remix albums comes differently. Not wanting to offer up the same songs for a second time, he likes to take the music he’s already created and serve it up in a way that makes it almost unrecognizable to the listeners, becoming in a way, a whole new album.
After seven years, his first full length remix effort, Dubbed & Freq’d--taking popular songs from 2007’s Portable Sounds and 2010’s Tonight--is coming as a much-awaited and welcomed treat to longtime listeners.
“Made To Love (Telemitry Remix)” starts the party off on a quirky note, making the move nicely into another fan favorite, a club infectious and fun version of “No Ordinary Love (G- Man Remix.)” A stellar retelling of one of Toby’s newest tunes, “Showstopper (Capital Kings Remix)”comes next and serves as my favorite mix on the record. Taking the best parts of the original version and highlighting them against an irresistible dance track.
“City On Our Knees (Golden Snax Remix)” is one of the more original mixes on the record, and one that fans of mainstream artists such as Usher and Bruno Mars will love. “Tonight (Capital Kings Remix)” would fair well in a club setting, although the guest vocals from Skillet’s John Cooper found on the original are sorely missed.
“Hold On (Telemitry Remix)” offers an underlying island vibe, while “Get Back Up (Broke Remix)”sounds almost too much like the album version, but is still a fun effort nonetheless. “Boomin’ (UTB Remix)”takes one of Toby’s most beloved rock songs and gives it an eerie vibe with the addition of some synth strings in the beat, also a welcomed treat, is a guest rap from former Diverse City band member Shonlock.
“Lose My Soul (Shoc Remix),” remixed by none other than Jack “Shoc” Shocklee (producer and husband to rising CCM artist, Beckah Shae) will become yet another favorite, taking one of tobyMac’s most soulful songs and carefully shuffling it into a hip-hop lover’s dream.
The darker “Captured (KP Remix)” brings the focus back onto the lyrics of one of his most worshipful songs, and goes nicely into “Ignition (Hot Wired Remix.)” This mix first appeared as the theme song to Toby’s video blog several years back with a multitude of fans soon asking for it to be released on an album. They’ll enjoy hearing it again. Taking this project home is the utterly chaotic “Start Somewhere (X-Zach’d Remix.)” In true tobyMac fashion, it‘s an electrifying way to go out, and brings to an end an eclectic and lively remix record.
Closing Thoughts:
I’m skeptical when it comes to remix albums. It must offer a batch of killer makeovers to win me over, and very few have achieved this. When it comes to tobyMac’s remix projects however, I’ve always been pleasantly surprised, which is exactly case with tobyMac’s Dubbed & Freq’d. While not as a strong as his two previous remix efforts, it once again brings to light the creative genius tobyMac is known for in his music. It’s a fun and upbeat record fans will love and I hope to see dance radio eat it up.
If you’re new to the music of tobyMac, this probably isn’t the best place to start, his Tonight album painting a much clearer picture for you, but if you’re familiar with the music and are interested in hearing it in a fresh new way, look no further… and prepare to be freaked.
One of the Best Debut Projects in Years! | Posted February-12-2012
SARAH FINE
FOR KING AND COUNTRY
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
For some, music is something they discover with time--something they can use as a way of expressing who they are, who they’ve been and what they believe. For others, such as brothers Joel and Luke Smallbone, music is something that is embedded into their DNA.
If their faces look familiar to the Christian music fan, it’s mostly likely because they’ve seen them before. Having grown up in a musical home with father, acclaimed producer David Smallbone, their sister is none other than award winning female vocalist Rebecca St. James. Both men traveled with their sister for a number of years as they sang back-up vocals for her on tour. Right around the time Rebecca announced a break from music, Joel and Luke, both now seasoned veterans, began to treading into their own musical waters, touring under the name, well, Joel and Luke.
They sang as an independent duo for a number of years before inking a deal with Word Records in 2011. Wanting to avoid confusion that had been circulating around their name, the guys decided to switch things up a bit by re-branding themselves For King & Country.
“The history of that phrase is that back in the olden days, the British would go into battle shouting, chanting, ‘For King and Country,’ sort of as an anthem of fighting for something that they believed wholeheartedly in,” says Luke. “We all looked at each other in the studio and we just knew that was it.”
Already gaining widespread attention as an opening act on the 2012’s Winter Jam tour, the brothers’ first single, “Busted Heart (Hold On To Me),” has topped the charts on several Christian radio stations, and evoked what has become a dedicated fan base awaiting a full-length release. That need soon would be met by the release of their debut project, Crave.
“We want to be known for writing music that is authentic, real and from the heart,” says Joel of the album. “There’s a lot of blood, sweat and tears that went into this record and what spurred us on is this whole idea that we can make a difference.”
The album begins with the melodic and U2-like “Light It Up” and transitions nicely into the string fronted “The Proof Of Your Love,” pulling directly from 1 Corinthians 13 which states that without love, the things we do mean nothing.
The chaotic rock tune “Missing” speaks of the of the sting of lost love and will no doubt go down as a fan favorite with it‘s eerie and memorable composition. “Busted Heart (Hold On To Me)”is the duo’s first hit single and is the standout track on this record. It comes from a place of utter brokenness and finding yourself at rock bottom, asking God, the only one who can pick us up, to come down and make us whole again. A fantastic song with seamless vocal harmonies from Joel and Luke.
“People Change” follows along the line of “Missing,” only this time, this story of lost love has a happier ending with the moral that even the hardest and most stubborn heart can change for the better. “Middle Of Your Heart” is a catchy tune of surrendering your life unto God and yet again highlights the musical creativity found in this group’s music. I’d love to hear this as the next radio single.
“Love’s To Blame” is a about selfless love, and how sometimes, loving someone means letting them go even if we don’t want to. “Fine Fine Life” is a ridiculously catchy tune about the personal and public tragedies found in society, and how quickly we can forget how beautiful life is when we don’t put Jesus first. There is no doubt you’ll walk away with the song stuck in your head.
Both Joel and Luke--much like their sister Rebecca--are outspoken activists on the topic of sexual purity, sharing that message in the song “Sane,” about someone who has crossed the lines and compromised themselves, coming to the conclusion that they can be made whole again and set free when they run to God and embrace His forgiveness. It sends a wonderful and much-needed message in our culture.
“Pushing On A Pulling Door” is written from God’s perspective speaking to His children, telling them to stop trying to control their own lives and let Him take over. The album finally comes to a conclusion with the moving ballad and album namesake, “Crave.” Referring to hope as a woman figure, it talks about how we are always trying to find her and how only she is what will help us to live and love again after past mistakes. It’s unorthodox to say the least, but sends a powerful message nonetheless: “It’s written on my soul, hope is what we crave.”
Closing Thoughts:
Alternative pop isn’t an easy genre to tackle. It easily can be seen as being too upbeat or too edgy. In the case of For King & Country however, that couldn’t be any farther from the truth. Granted, it’s heavier than your average pop record, but somewhere in the midst of the meaty musical depth, there is an eminent beam of hope shining from the lyrics--whether they are about the sting of a broken relationship or the redemption found in God’s grace.
Crave is hands-down one of the best debut projects I’ve heard from a group in years. Creative, poignant and moving, it comes from a very raw place of heartache and hope, never backing down from the honest truth, yet never shying away from the restoration found in Christ. Musically, it’s unlike anything in the genre right now. Haunting, playful and deep all at once, it could quite easily beat out many of its mainstream counterparts. Joel and Luke have completely won me over, and when you hear this album for yourself, you‘ll understand why. This is an extremely bright start for one best new acts in CCM and I can’t wait to see what comes next.
A Truly Eclectic Playlist | Posted February-12-2012
It’s hard to believe it’s been half a decade since the spirited bass player for the Newsboys, Phil Joel, announced his sudden departure from the group back in 2007. The decision was two-pronged, as he wanted to pursue a solo career as well as focus on the ministry he founded with his wife, Heather, called Deliberate People. It’s a ministry that encourages believers to be deliberate in their daily relationship with God.
In the five years since his exit, Phil has released two highly acclaimed children’s albums, as well as the under-the-radar The New Normal. Still, without any press or frequent touring in recent years (much understood after traveling the globe non-stop for over a decade) many who followed the band started to wonder if he’d fallen off the face of the planet.
To the delight of fans young and old, the long-locked rocker from New Zealand recently made his grand return to the CCM world earlier this year, joining fellow former Newsboy, Peter Furler, on his run on the 2012 Winter Jam tour. While Phil Joel back at it on the bass would have been enough of reason to celebrate, after a brief hiatus, Phil’s voice emerged once again with his quietly released compilation album, Playlist.
Playlist is a unique record in that it’s not a greatest hits collection, but it’s not a new studio project either. “Rather than simply pre-releasing an EP of new songs from the CD I’ve been working on” he explains, “I thought it might be fun to add a ‘playlist’ of songs from previous albums. These tunes, both new and not-so-new, are my testimony of God’s love and faithfulness.”
Coming as a musical journey of faith and redemption, the album starts off with the brand new “Blue Sky,” talking about breaking out of ruts and living your life to the fullest. “Life Is Crazy” is infectiously catchy and could very well be a radio hit. It sends an honest message of how no life is perfect, but how in it all, God uses our weaknesses for His glory.
The eclectic “Wait For You” is a thought-provoking ballad about the kingdoms we like to build on Earth, and how we as believers need to be set our minds on things above. Coming as a welcomed surprise is an acoustic take on Newsboys hit “Entertaining Angels,” complete with chilling strings and yet more stirring vocals. It’s been hot minute since fans have heard Phil sing this song; it’s great to hear his voice making it fresh again.
From this point forward on the project, we’re met with a 12-song collection of hits and favorites from Phil’s previous four projects, starting with the well-known, “Changed.” That song is his own personal testimony of how God took him from a nearly backslidden relationship several years back and gave him a deliberate passion to seek after Him daily, changing everything about his life from that point on.
“God Is Watching Over You”, “Jealous”, “You Belong To Me”, “Fallen In Love” and “Beautiful Life” are just some of the favorite you’ll find on this record, as well as my personal favorite, “The Man You Want Me To Be,” written after his daughter’s birth as a cry unto God to help him become all he needs to be for his family. Ten years after it’s release, it still stands up to current trends. Lyrically stunning, its whimsical melody only takes Joel to a whole new level of creativity.
Closing Thoughts:
Because Phil is forthright on his dislike for social media, and fact that he’s technically considered an indie artist, it’s a shame that his last several albums haven’t received the attention they deserve. His style is truly undefined. While musically quirky, his transparent lyrics steal the show. They make you seriously consider how deliberate you’re being in your own walk with God.
That being said, Playlist a perfect representation of who Phil Joel is, as both a man and a musician. From his pop roots with Newsboys to his solo appreciation for breathy melodics, not one of his songs sounds alike. Playlist perfectly showcases his spiritual maturation, chronicling Phil’s journey from being someone who was desperate to change, to someone who has. Whether you’re someone who has yet to discover Phil Joel’s music, or if you’re falling in love with him all over again, this is a solid project and only whets fans’ appetites even more for his long-awaited studio project. If it’s anywhere near the quality of this album, we certainly won’t be disappointed.
Surrender, Celebration Collide in this Worship Experience | Posted February-12-2012
When husband/wife team Brian and Bobbie Houston opened the doors of Hills Church in Australia back in 1983, they had no clue how wide their ministry was going to stretch. From humble beginnings in Sydney, the church today--now known as Hillsong--holds a 20,000-member congregation each weekend. And beyond that, their reach extends to nearly 20 extension campuses all across the globe, as well as a weekly television broadcast.
While these are just some of the hefty accomplishments the church has made in the almost 30 years since it began, it’s safe to say that the heftiest is found in what has become one of the biggest worship ministries ever with Hillsong Music. Ranging from adults all the way to kids, it seems like almost everything the Hillsong worship team lays their hands to turns to gold… literally. (Every album they’ve released has been certified Gold in Australia.)
The various Hillsong worship ministries mean a lot to me. Hillsong Live’s God He Reigns was the first praise and worship album I ever owned, and it saw me through many struggles and victories in my early walk with God. Still, being a teen and new in my faith, I wrestled with wanting worship music to “sound cool” while still providing me an outlet to praise God. So as you can imagine, I was happy to learn that Hillsong had a youth worship band called Hillsong United--a band that worshipped with fresh and relevant music.
Hillsong United has gone through some major changes these past several years, fast becoming one of the premiere worship bands of the 21st Century. Having released a multitude of live worship records as well as their most recent studio project, Aftermath, their passionate praise-filled lyrics and crunchy guitar-driven melodies have captured the heart of worshipers nationally and brought countless sold-out arenas with thousands of people on their knees, in awe of God.
It’s this same continual Spirit-filled move of God the team encountered while on tour last Summer that they wanted to capture for the world to remember. Taking material from the aforementioned Aftermath, as well as a few Hillsong Live mainstays, Live In Miami is a two disc, three-hour experience meant to enrapture the body of Christ and lead them into a place of total abandon before the Creator.
United worship leader Joel Houston fronts a majority of the songs on this project, including the drum laced “You”, instant classic “Mighty To Save”, “The Stand”, “From The Inside Out” and the title track, “Aftermath.” Fellow United leaders Jad Giles and Jonathon Douglass take over on other tracks like, “Search My Heart”, “Freedom Is Here”, “Break Free” and “Take It All.”
Each disc features its own special moments. A few in particular are “Nova,” lead by Matt Crocker, ushering in a fun and 80s-like techno-infused moment of upbeat praise that never loses its focus. Another memorable track is “Hosanna,” written by Hillsong worship leader Brooke Frasier-Ligertwood and sung on this album by Jill McCloghry--whose passionate vocals bring this song and album to a whole new level of spiritual depth.
Other songs on the live project include “Go”, “A Song To Sing” and “Oh You Bring.” The powerfully captivating “With Everything” is my favorite song on the entire project with its poignant and incredible lyrics: “So let hope rise and darkness tremble in Your holy light, that every eye will see Jesus our God, great and mighty to be praised.”
Closing Thoughts:
I’ve loved seeing how the worship music genre has thrived these last several years, reaching outside the doors of the church and meeting people all over the world, seeing lives forever changed by the power of God. We have bands like Hillsong United to thank for this. Live In Miami is a perfect illustration of this group’s musical evolution. As whimsical and fun as ever, none of the bells and whistles ever drowns out the true meaning of the moment, and when the album does take a turn for mellow, it doesn’t loose your interest, but rather, builds into a climactic moment of surrender.
The songs on this project do run long. Only one clocks at under three minutes and the longest checks in at well over 10, so there is a good chance you won’t be listening to this album all at once. Regardless, you’ll soon forget the length of the songs when you dive in deep and begin to experience a true encounter with God as you worship Him with the wonderful lyrics found on this album. You almost feel like you’re in the room with the thousands of others as they freely praise. This is a well-executed worship project and one fans will be listening to for many years to come. I look forward to what the future holds for this stellar group of young musicians--it will be nothing short of extraordinary.
The ‘90s were a fantastic time to be a female vocalist in Christian music. The powerhouse careers of greats such as Amy Grant and Sandi Patty paved the way for the revolution that took place at the end of the 20th century--a time in which female artists such as Rebecca St James, Nichole Nordeman, Susan Ashton and a plethora of others dominated the airwaves with their thought-provoking messages and ear-grabbing tunes.
Included in that endless list was a 14-year-old girl by the name of Jaci Velasquez, who had a big voice and an even bigger vision for ministry. Having grown up singing in church her whole life, Jaci’s biggest break came with her 1996 release, Heavenly Place, which spawned hits such as “On My Knees”, “Un Lugar Celestial (A Heavenly Place)” and “If This World.” The album went on to be certified Platinum and launched what was to become one of CCM’s most influential careers.
It’s almost impossible to list Jaci’s lengthy list of accomplishments into one paragraph. Dozens of English and Spanish recordings, millions of albums sold, countless awards, thousands of sold out shows, not to mention her “hobbies” such as acting and hosting a radio show. It’s safe to say that if there is one word that can describe Jaci Velasquez’s life in the last 16 years, it’s passion.
In 2008, after the release of her Love Out Loud project, Jaci took a quiet sabbatical from the music industry to focus on raising her growing family with husband and Salvador lead vocalist, Nic Gonzales. Having begun a much simpler lifestyle than the fast-paced conditions of the music world, Jaci began to gain a whole new lease on life--as both a wife, a mother of two little boys, and a child of God. And it’s that same lease on life that has inspired some of Jaci’s most intimate and real songwriting to date.
Poised to be one of CCM’s biggest comebacks of the year, Jaci’s newest album, Diamond, is coming from a four-year hiatus full of changes, challenges, victories and ultimately, finding freedom.
“When you look at a diamond, sometimes the flaws and the imperfections of the diamond are actually what make it sparkle the most,” she explains about the idea behind the album. “Diamond is that story for me. How He can find something that the world might toss away, and He can say ‘You’re Mine, you’re beautiful, I have plans for you.’”
The much-anticipated project starts off with the title track, “Diamond,” and sets the stage for a musical journey of both personal discovery and open encouragement. “Give Them Jesus” is the first single, coming as an upbeat reminder that it’s sometimes the smallest things in life that shine the brightest light for Jesus.
“The Sound Of Your Name” is a sweeping song of worship, talking about the awesome yet gentle power found in the voice of the Lord. and transitions nicely into the jazz club-like “Stay.” The intimate “Fall For You” is written from the viewpoint of God towards one of His children who thinks they’ve fallen too far from His grace, only to remind them that nothing they’ve ever done can outweigh His love for them.
Jaci‘s love for her Latin heritage has always made a welcomed appearance on her records, this one being no exception. “Con El Viento A Mi Favor” (translated “With the Wind In My Favor”) is a beautiful moment of surrender that even non-Spanish speakers will enjoy listening to due the sheer anointing felt in the music. The passion found in her Spanish language albums has always gone unmatched and it’s clear to see why in this song. Hopefully we will be greeted by another full-length Spanish album soon.
The album beings to pick up the speed from this point forward with “Tell Me Again,” reflecting on how God’s love overshadows our failures. “Girl” comes as one of the most blunt songs on the record, both lyrically and musically. The message of self-worth and purity directly aimed towards women who are being told to sell themselves to find love is matched unconventionally with a big band style melody that almost sounds like it belongs in a musical. Quirky to say the least, but it fast becomes one of the standout tracks on the record.
The techno pop/rock infused “Trust In You” stands reminiscent of some of her earliest work with a few modern twists, while “Guilt” drives its theme of personal forgiveness deep into the heart of the listener against a haunting guitar driven musical backdrop. The album comes to a close on a simple note with the piano-fronted “Good Morning Sunshine.” It symbolizes the diamond theme of this record beautifully and gives it a storybook ending.
Closing Thoughts:
When an artist takes any lengthy amount of time away from the music scene, their return is always met with either an uproar of praise or a page full of problems. I am happy to report however, that not only has Jaci solidified her return to the Christian music industry, but has done so an extremely high note. Vocally, Jaci sounds better than ever, and musically, her lyrical and melodious evolution shines brightly, making this easily her best project to date. Stylistically, there is something for everyone. It tends to lean more on the mellow side, but when it does pick up the pace, it doesn’t miss a beat.
Diamond is aptly titled. It is an absolute gem, one of 2012’s first “must own” albums and by far one of the best projects Christian music has seen from a female vocalist in quite some time. Original yet familiar, longtime fans and new listeners are not going to want to miss this. Jaci Velasquez marks yet another long-awaited CCM return, and I speak for many when I say we hope she’s here to stay.
SarahFine_NRT's Music and Book Reviews 
