The Long Surrender
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NEEDTOBREATHE The Long Surrender is NEEDTOBREATHE’s tenth studio album, and the follow-up to 2023’s Caves. The album has a mostly stripped-down acoustic sound – with the exception...
Songs of The Saints (Deluxe Edition)
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Phil Song of the Saints by Phil Wickham was one of my favorite albums of 2025. Wickham is back with a massive 18 song Deluxe edition, bringing the entire Song of the Saints project to 34 songs....
Jamie MacDonald
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Jamie I first heard of Jamie MacDonald when she recorded a version of “God Did It” with TobyMac. She then appeared on “My Father’s World” on Chris Tomlin’s The King is...
A Gift to the Church | Posted August-17-2019 This is the first time hymnwriters Matt Boswell and Matt Papa have recorded an album together. Recorded live with a full band and the voices of the audience worshipping with them, His Mercy is More: The Hymns of Matt Boswell and Matt Papa is a gift to the church. The album includes some well-known hymns that are sung in churches such as “His Mercy is More”, “Christ the Sure and Steady Anchor” and “Come Behold the Wondrous Mystery”, as well as some hymns that have not been previously recorded. The two have been writing together for the past 10-12 years. This album will be on my list of top albums for the year.
Below are a few comments about each song:
His Mercy is More – This song was written by Matt Boswell and Matt Papa and inspired from one of John Newton’s letters.
Key lyric:
Praise the Lord!
His mercy is more.
Stronger than darkness; new every morn;
Our sins, they are many, His mercy is more.
Magnificent, Marvelous, Matchless Love – This song about God’s love was written by Keith Getty, Kristyn Getty, Matt Papa, Aaron Keyes and Luke Brown. It was first recorded by Keith and Kristyn Getty on their 2018 EP The North Coast Sessions and was also included on the 2018 Sing! Psalms: Ancient + Modern (Live At The Getty Music Worship Conference) album. The song has an infectious joyful chorus, is driven by a good drum beat and features some nice guitar.
Key lyric:
How great, how sure; His love endures forevermore.
Magnificent, marvelous, matchless love.
Come Behold the Wondrous Mystery – This song was written by Matt Boswell, Michael Bleecker and Matt Papa and features Kristyn Getty on vocals.
Key lyric:
See the price of our redemption
See the Father’s plan unfold
Bringing many sons to glory
Grace unmeasured, love untold
Sing We the Song of Emmanuel – This song was written by Matt Boswell, Matt Papa and Stuart Townend. The joyful song took about three years to complete. It features some excellent guitar work and choral singing of “Gloria” to end the song.
Key lyric:
Glory shining for all to see
Hope alive, let the gospel ring
God has made a way, He will have the praise
Tell the world His name is Jesus
My Savior’s Love (What Tongue Could Tell) – This song was written by Matt Boswell, Matt Papa and Keith Getty. The song features keys, drums and guitar.
Key lyric:
My Savior’s love
What could compare
What tongue could tell my Savior’s love
Lord from Sorrows Deep I Call (Psalm 42) – This song was written by Matt Boswell and Matt Papa and was included on the 2018 Sing! Psalms: Ancient + Modern (Live At The Getty Music Worship Conference) album. The song features piano and strings.
Key lyric:
And, oh, my soul, put your hope in God
My help, my Rock, I will praise Him
Sing, oh, sing through the raging storm
You’re still my God, my salvation
Let the Nations Be Glad – This song was written by Matt Boswell, Aaron Boswell and Matt Papa. The song features drums and guitar.
Key lyric:
Let the nations be glad
Let the people rejoice
For salvation belongs to our God
Let the whole earth be filled
With the praises of the Lord
For salvation belongs to our God
Let the nations be glad
Christ the Sure and Steady Anchor – This song was written by Matt Boswell and Matt Papa. The song features keys, drums and steel guitar.
Key lyric:
We will hold fast to the anchor
It will never be removed
Lord Have Mercy (For What We Have Done) – This song was written by Matt Boswell, Matt Papa, Aaron Keys, and James Tealy. The song features, keys, guitar, organ, and light drums.
Key lyric:
In thought word and deed, we’ve failed You our King
How deeply we need a Savior
The King in All His Beauty – This song was written by Matt Boswell and Matt Papa. The song features keys and drums. The song builds toward a powerful third verse.
Key lyric:
Bring praise and honor to His courts
Bring wisdom, power, blessing
For endless ages we’ll adore
The King in all His beauty
How Rich a Treasure We Possess – This joyful song was written by Matt Boswell and Matt Papa. The song features guitar and drums.
Key lyric:
The penalty was paid in full
The spotless Lamb was slain
Salvation what a priceless gift
Received by grace through faith
Christ is All - This song was written by Matt Boswell and Matt Papa. The song features guitar, keys, drums and a guitar solo mid-song.
Key lyrics:
Christ is all Christ is all
And my song will ever be
Come Adore the Humble King – This beautiful song was written by Matt Boswell and Matt Papa. The song features, organ, piano, light percussion and strings.
Bear Rinehart Goes in a New Direction | Posted August-10-2019
This is the first solo album from Bear Rinehart, a founding member and lead singer of NEEDTOBREATHE, one of my favorite bands. The album and band are both named after his two sons Wilder and Woods. Rinehart has said that there are two distinct sides to the album. The Wilder side, which comprises most of the album, is all about love, flirtation and desire, while the Woods side is more serious and reflective. The song “Religion” falls onto the Woods side, and will surely get much discussion as to its meaning.
Musically, the album is a blend of soul, R&B and pop and features his excellent vocals. The album was recorded in East Nashville with producer Gabe Simon.
Below are a few comments about each song.
Light Shine In – The opening song was written by Rinehart, Simon and Austin Jenkins. It starts quietly with acoustic guitar, before keys are added. It then quickly builds powerfully with guitar and backing vocals. For twenty years (the length of time he was in NEEDTOBREATHE), he was completely blind to all of his fears. Sometimes he wishes he was lost, as there’s nothing worse than being found. His plea is for the children of broken men to let their light shine in. The song ends with the acoustic guitar that opened it.
Sure Ain't – This song was produced by Simon and Josh Bruce Williams, and written by Rinehart, Williams and Andy Albert. It is a love song directed to his wife Mary. The song features electric guitar and drums. If she thinks she might kiss him, it sure wouldn’t break his heart.
Someday Soon – This song was written by Rinehart. It features acoustic guitar, keys, strings, and backing vocals. Rinehart uses a higher range vocal, similar to Amos Lee for a part of the song. Someday soon these worries will roll on. He could use a reminder of what forgiveness is for. He encourages the person the song is directed to not to give up on the Kingdom, they’ll still be let in.
Key lyric:
Don't think the battle's over just 'cause you say "Amen"
Supply & Demand – This easy-going R&B flavored love song was written by Rinehart. It opens with keys and features drums, backing vocals and a memorable hook.
Electric Woman – This love song was written by Rinehart. It features light percussion and light guitar at the beginning, picking up the beat on the chorus with a catchy drum beat, some higher range vocals and backing vocals. The electric woman is sending shocks through his body. He wants to be her electric man. He’s never been good at letting her go.
Mary, You're Wrong – This R&B flavored love song to Rinehart’s wife was written by Rinehart and Simon. The song features keys, light percussion, guitar, organ, strings, and light backing vocals. She’s wrong if she’s thinking he would ever want to leave.
Feel – This mid-tempo love song was written by Rinehart, Simon and Kevin Griffin. The song features keys, bass, backing vocals, drums, backing vocals and a guitar solo mid-song. He wants to know if he is bound for rejection or all of her affection. He’s not going to cut and run. He wants to know if she feels the way he feels.
Hillside House – This mid-tempo love song was written by Rinehart and David Leonard. It features a good bass line, light guitar, drums, and backing vocals. It’s hard to think of their hillside house without her around. So, while they’re still young, and while they still can, he’s gonna wrap her up in his arms again.
What Gives You The Right – This love song was written by Rinehart, Simon and Trent Dabbs. This song brings back some energy after a few slower songs, featuring guitar, drums, backing vocals and organ. What gives her the right to come and rescue him knowing that he would trust her, even if it meant his life.
Key lyric:
I never planned for surrender
But I'm a fool for your splendor
Religion – This song was written by Rinehart and Simon. It features acoustic guitar and backing vocals. The song could be taken as Rinehart’s departure from the faith. We don’t know who he might be directing these lines to:
You're a temptress, you're to blame
For the guilt I can't displace
Though there's winters and summers
And so much has changed
You're the fortress for my shame
Rinehart grew up as a pastor’s son. He sings:
I was born in the shadows of preachers and saints
I was raised in a house of God
But the blood on my lips and the dirt on my face
Is all the religion I've got
Or he could be singing about a dead religion, not a true faith:
She's a needy harlequin
Built by greed and selfish men
Though it's easy to love her for all you discover
She's bound to fall again
“Religion” is a confusing song that will surely lead to much discussion about its meaning. It might refer to a dead faith, a rejection of religion, frustration with today's churches, venting about money and institutions and what they do to the Gospel, venting about the church's role in creating shame, etc.
NF at the Top of His Game | Posted August-04-2019 The Search is the fourth, and perhaps the best, studio album by NF. It is the follow-up to 2017’s Perception. The album debuted at number one on the Billboard Top Albums chart, as did Perception. The twenty-song album was written by and produced by NF and produced by Tommee Profitt, unless otherwise noted below. The album features NF’s hard-hitting music and transparent and vulnerable lyrics. Below are a few comments about each song:
The Search - This hard-hitting track was the second single released from the album. He’s been dealing with some things. He admits that he had breakdown last year and saw a therapist. He’s been searching, leaving his burdens, but admits that he brought some with him. He’s been looking for the map to hope. As the song ends, he’s back, the search is beginning so enjoy the trip.
Leave Me Alone – This song was written and produced by NF, Tommee Profitt and Saint X. Profitt adds backing vocals on the song. The song has Nate wanting his fame to leave him alone. He addresses his OCD and doesn’t need advice from his doubts right now.
Change – This song features backing vocals from Debi Selby, Nicki Conley, Jason Eskridge, Moiba Mustapha and Travis Cottrell. The song opens with brief backing vocals, and then goes into a driving beat. He’s addicted to pain and has mood swings. He doesn’t like new things. He’s looking for change but never wants to commit. Saying we need change is easy, but change is hard to do. He felt suicidal last year. This year, he might do something different like talking to God more.
My Stress – The song opens with Nate singing that somedays he just wants relief from his stress and negativity. Then he begins to rap about pressures he is facing and his insecurities. He’s a hostage to his own pride. He wonders what he would do if he only had a short time to live. Would he call his Dad and tell him he loves him?
Nate – This song has Nate passionately talking to his younger self, preparing him for what is coming. He got the idea for the song when he spent four days in therapy from depression, and disconnected from the world after the first leg of the Perception tour. He tells his younger self that life is hard. If you have questions or need advice, talk to God because he’s the only one who listens. He references incidents from his childhood and parents, and tells his younger self that making millions won’t make him happy.
Time (Extended) – This song opens with strings by Jeremy Larson. Nate then sings over keys that even if she says she hates him and they go to bed angry, he’s sure everything will be alright. He promises he is changing. He then raps that he just needs more time to show her he is worth it. He says that he is the definition of “wreck” if you look into his soul, which comes out the most when he feels he’s in a vulnerable place.
Returns – This song was written and produced by NF, Tommee Profitt and Saint X. Nate seems to be directing anger at a fellow rapper. The song is hard-hitting and confident, with Nate displaying some fast rapping skills.
When I Grow Up – This was the third single released from the album.
Nate talks about his dream growing up of being a rapper, rather than going to college and getting a job.
Only – This song was written by NF, Tommee Profitt, King Henry and Sasha Sloan with Sloan also contributing vocals. He doesn’t need a lot. He just wants to find his peace. He wishes that he would pray more often and put more time into his faith. He loves his job, but hates the fame that comes with it. He can’t be the only one who is lonely tonight, needing company and comforting.
Let Me Go - This song was written and produced by NF, Tommee Profitt and Saint X. Jeremy Larson adds the opening strings. Nate talks about his dark side. His vocals grow more intense as the song progresses. He prays to God to ask if hope is real. Is he Hell-bound, or will he find Heaven?
Interlude – This is a brief track in which Nate talks about how he was spiraling during the successful Perception album and tour.
Hate Myself – This song features keys and some excellent percussion. Nate questions his calling by asking if this is really what he was born to be. Late nights are the worst, when he has had suicidal thoughts. He’s not a spokesman, but a broken record. He prays to God with arms open. If this is it, then he feels hopeless.
I Miss the Days – Backing vocals on this song are provided by Debi Selby, Nicki Conley, Jason Eskridge, Brooke Griffith, Moiba Mustapha and Travis Cottrell. Nate looks back on his childhood, when he had a smile on his face, wasn’t so caught up in the small things, and didn’t overthink his life. He wonders what happened to him. When did he start to believe that he wasn’t worth it? He feels he’s blessed, but cursed as well. The song builds powerfully toward the end.
No Excuses – This song was written and produced by NF, Tommee Profitt and Saint X. It’s a high energy song in which Nate says he was self-taught. He has no excuses. He displays some fast rapping skills on the song.
Like This – This song was written and produced by NF, David Garcia and Saint X.
This song features some excellent percussion. He wastes too much time on things he can’t fix. He holds things inside that he can’t forget and that he thought he could let go. He feels more together when he’s a mess. He’s feeling too much like his old self, backsliding.
Options – This song was written and produced by NF, David Garcia and b | r z.
This hard-hitting song, which is a reminder that he still spits, has Nate saying that these are the options. And even if the record doesn’t sell a copy, he’s going to do it as a hobby. He’s not quitting unless the Lord tells him to.
Why – This song was the first single released from the album. It was written and produced by NF, Tommee Profitt and Saint X. The song features some excellent percussion. He wants to be great, but he gets in the way of himself and thinks about everything he could never be. He holds his issues up for all to see. A lot of people know him, but they don’t know him well.
Thinking – The song was written and produced by NF and Saint X. This song features some excellent percussion. The first verse could be to his wife. He is vulnerable and the person he’s singing to has the keys to open all his secrets. They have always been there when he’s low to help pick up the pieces.
Key lyric:
To most, negative thinking makes you a pessimist, but
To me, negative thinking means I'm just realistic
Trauma – This haunting and ballad features piano and strings from Jeremy Larson. This could be a song addressed to God or his wife. He is helpless and needs them with him. He needs their hand as he’s drowning. Traumas surround him. He yearns for peace and to be found.
Time – This was the fourth single released from the album. See “Time Extended” above.
Excellent Debut from Mac Powell's New Band | Posted August-03-2019
Mac Powell was the lead singer for the Christian band Third Day for 25 plus years. During that time, the band sold 10 million albums, earned 4 Grammy Awards and 24 Dove Awards. Powell formed his new band in 2018 after Third Day played its final show. The Family Reunion is a band that has developed over the past several years from musicians that have been recording and playing live with Powell in support of his two solo albums, the self-titled 2012 debut and 2014’s Southpaw.
Back Again is southern roots and American rock music, propelled by Powell’s powerful voice, that pays tribute to the early musical inspirations from his childhood. Though this is not a "Christian music album", there is Christian content in “Heaven” and “What I Came Here For” and there are no objectionable lyrics. Powell and the band use this music to bring light to those who would never go to a Third Day concert or go to church. The album was recorded in Atlanta and produced by Jason Hoard and is one of my favorites of the year.
Below are a few comments about each of the fifteen songs:
Back Again – This is an excellent opener. It’s an upbeat southern rock song with driving guitars and drums, with Powell’s strong vocal. He was raised to ramble and born to run. He’s always been a traveler and made to move. The only thing that will make him settle down is to come on back to her.
Flood Waters – This is a toe-tapping guitar-driven song. A storm is coming. There will be earthquakes, lightening and flood waters rising. You’ll (God? A woman?) be the only one he’ll be looking for. There are some nice backing vocals and a guitar solo mid-song.
Whoo! – This song features guitar and drums. It’s a fun song about celebrating the weekend, after a long week of work. The song features country artist Craig Morgan on vocals and a guitar solo mid-song.
Watermelon Rind – This song features guitar and drums, with some organ and a brief guitar solo. The joyful song is about remembering when he was a little boy down at the river with his cousins and sister swimming. When they got hungry his mama got them a watermelon and they ate it down to the rind.
Red On A Rose – This song has a slower pace. It features acoustic guitar, keys, light drums and backing vocals. Sometimes life doesn’t work out as planned, but she can count on him. He’ll be her shelter, hold her close and never let her go.
I'm Beginning To Wonder – This song features a driving guitar sound and backing vocals. She’s been pulling him down and treating him so bad for so long. He’s beginning to wonder if she ever did love him.
Going To California – This easy-going song is driven by pedal steel guitar. written He’s going to California, find a diamond and buy it for a song. When she wakes up in the morning, he’ll be gone, but he’ll come back home to her in Georgia. The song features a guitar solo mid-song.
I Could Get Used To This – This is a slower paced love song that builds. It features light guitar and drums. He’s never been the type to stick around for too long. But she’s the only one whose made him want to stay. He could get used to staying with her rather than running around.
Tiptoein' – This is an upbeat fun swamp rock song featuring banjo, guitar, drums and backing vocals. From the time he was five, he was tiptoeing. Now he has kids and he can hear the kids upstairs tiptoeing.
Heaven – This is a slower paced song featuring light guitars and backing vocals that gradually builds. The world’s going crazy and sometimes it seems nothing is left here for him. But all that he wants and needs is right there where he longs to be (in Heaven). The song features an excellent guitar solo near the end of the song.
What I Came Here For – This song has an acoustic, unplugged sound, featuring banjo that builds toward the end. He’s been running. He doesn’t know what he is chasing but he knows there is something more. One of these days, he prays, he’s going to open up the door and find what he came here for. He’s looking for a light to guide his way. Thematically, it reminded me of U2’s “I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For”. A highlight.
Mess of Me – This song begins with acoustic guitar, and is a toe-tapper, instantly likeable. First time he saw her he fell in love. But he’s running out of time to get her to love him. The temperature is rising and it’s hard for him to breath. He’s dizzy, and it’s hard for him to see. It features a guitar solo mid-song. A highlight.
Settlin' Down – This song features driving guitar and drums and a sound not unlike a Springsteen solo record. He wants to settle down, get a little place, go out dancing on a Saturday night, talk to dawn and have a couple of kids.
Sittin' Here Talkin' With You – This love song has a slower pace with accordion, acoustic guitar and light drum. There is nothing he would rather do than to hold her hand on the front porch swing. It’s his favorite thing sitting there talking with her. The song features a guitar solo mid-song.
Mississippi – This foot-stomping song is driven by guitar and drums. She treats him bad and he’s going to leave. By the time she gets to “10 Mississippi” he’ll be long gone.
Better Than Ever | Posted July-01-2019
I’ve appreciated the multi-talented (singer, songwriter, producer, author) and influential artist Charlie Peacock (“Big Man’s Hat”, “Down in the Lowlands”, “In the Light”), for more than 30 years, starting with his West Coast Diaries albums and his appearances at the Cornerstone Festival when it was still being held in the Chicago area. I’ve seen him in a concert a number of times over the years, from church concerts with his excellent trio (Peacock, Vince Ebo and Jimmy Abegg), to a small coffee house, and also heard him speak on a book tour. It’s always a joy when he releases a new vocal album. Lil’ Willie is his first new vocal album since 2012’s No Man’s Land.
The album features Peacock’s father, known as Lil’ Willie when he was growing up, on the cover. Peacock wrote all of the songs, produced the album and played most of the instruments, with son Sam Ashworth played acoustic guitar. The album was mixed and mastered by Peacock’s longtime friend and engineer Richie Biggs.
Here’s a few comments from each song from Lil’ Willie:
Fine Way to Live Your Life – The bouncy opener features some excellent acoustic guitar, bass, light percussion and light backing vocals. All they wanted was a life of bliss. It’s a time to seek not hide. It’s fine way to live, a dream come true. Peacock’s voice here, and on the entire album, sounds just as fresh as it did back on his 1980’s West Coast Diaries albums.
Looking at You – This mid-tempo song features acoustic guitar, bass, percussion, keys and light backing vocals. He’s stayed too long at a party and is slightly hung over. A good friend from down the street calls and they go out for coffee, something to eat and to watch people. They have an undeniable connection as they look at each other. They talk about living a life that is beautiful and different from most in America, where there is always something to complain about.
Time to Go – This gentle song features acoustic guitar, piano, and light backing vocals. He’s dreaming of a life that he might know. You can take him there, it’s time to go. He’s cast aside the need to always win to find communion with a life-long friend, who is the only light he knows.
Right Fine Picture – This song has an infectious driving beat, led by drums, guitar and bass. The song is about someone who does all the right things – she lets her light shine, says the right thing and does no wrong. She glows like sundown, has great cheekbones, and never keeps him out all night.
What You Believe You Will Receive – This is a slower song, beginning with an accordion sound, with keys, bass, violin, and backing vocals added. It’s directed to a man whose woman loves him but can’t stand what he does. He might still have time on the clock and a trick up his sleeve. He holds on to nothing, thinking it is something.
The One I Won’t Let Go – This song starts with a slow groove and then builds into a nice beat with keys, guitar, drums and backing vocals. She’s the only treasure he ever wants or needs and is the one he won’t let go.
Why, Why, Why – This mid-tempo song features a country sounding guitar and light drums. He has a lot of questions. She didn’t need the heartache, even though it might have felt so right. His feelings left long ago, as did all the promises they made.
The Songs – This mid-tempo song, begins with synth, and then adds drums, guitar and light backing vocals. He’ll sing the songs make it right, that she embraces and bring him unexpected tears that come from too much heartache.
B Who U Is – This song features a good groove, featuring drums, guitar, bass, hand-clap and backing vocals. It’s about being who God created you to be, not what you aren’t.
Wouldn’t Leave You Alone – This is a beautiful acoustic song featuring guitar, violin and light backing vocals. He was complicated and she was frustrated. The sound of love had come undone. It was unusual and beautiful what love would make of them. Some give up to soon, too easy. But she had fire in her bones and wouldn’t leave him just to leave him.
A Great Live Band | Posted June-01-2019
This six-song EP, from Switchfoot was recorded live at the Tabernacle in Atlanta on the band’s Native Tongue tour. It once again proves that Switchfoot is an excellent live band. Here are a few comments about each song.
Native Tongue – This song was written by Tim Foreman, Jon Foreman and Brent Kutzle. It starts with Jon telling the crowd that rather than fear, hatred, and retaliation, love is our native tongue. The song has a great beat, beginning with Jon singing over hand claps and light drums before a driving drum comes in. The song includes some effective backing vocals. I really appreciated the Chad Butler’s drums on the song. Tim Foreman’s bass comes through on this version more so than it did on the studio version. There is also a nice guitar solo on the song. Where did we go wrong, we forgot our song? He wants the world to sing in her native tongue and use our lungs for love.
Voices – This song was written by Brent Kutzle, Jon Foreman, Ryan Tedder, Tim Foreman and Tyler Spry. The song, which was inspired by a homeless man at the beach, begins with some excellent electric guitar, before Jon’s vocal kicks in. Butler’s drums drive an excellent beat, which features the Jerome Fontamillas’ keys. In the catchy chorus, Jon sings of having an army of voices in his head. Each moment is crowded with choices, which speak to him and drown out the voices. There are also some good backing vocals on the song.
Let it Happen – This song was written by Jon Foreman. The song features crashing guitars and driving drums, over Jon’s lead vocal. Backing vocals join him for the chorus and there is a nice guitar solo mid-song. This life seems hollow and mostly borrowed. He doesn’t know the meaning and his body is aching. He doesn’t know what is going to happen tomorrow but he trusts God with his future. Excellent song and performance.
Take My Fire – This song was written by Tim Foreman and Jon Foreman. The song begins with drums, then distorted guitar. Satan is never going to take his fire, his love for God. The defiant, guitar-driven rocker features a brief guitar solo and slows down mid-song before a powerful ending.
All I Need – This song was written by Tim Foreman and Jon Foreman. The band sings the song around one microphone to bring it back to where it all began. You can hear the crowd singing along. The love song begins with acoustic guitar, before keys, bass and drums are added later in the song. The chorus is memorable as he sings that all he needs is the air he breathes, the time they share and the ground beneath his feet. He wants to know if she believes in him.
Native Tongue – This is another version of the first song on the EP. Chad Butler’s drum work really stands out on this song. It is a bit of a different version of the song, but I question why the band would include two versions of the same song on a six-song EP.
Welcome Back Chris Rice | Posted May-17-2019
Chris Rice returned to the music scene after twelve years in January with Songs We Wrote On Tuesdays, a collaborative duo side project he completed with Andrew Ripp. Untitled Hymn: A Collection of Hymns is Rice’s long-awaited follow-up to his 2006 best-seller Peace Like a River: The Hymns Project. That record has been streamed an incredible more than 72 million times to date. Similar to that album, Untitled Hymn is very simple musically, with Rice’s voice usually accompanied by piano, acoustic guitar and light backing vocals. The album, which was produced by Ken Lewis, features a new recording of his classic “Untitled Hymn (Come to Jesus)”, eleven other hymns and one new song “Too Much I Love”. I absolutely loved this new recording.
Here are a few comments about each song:
What A Friend We Have In Jesus - This hymn was written by Joseph Scriven (words) and Charles Crozat Converse (music) in 1855. The song features acoustic guitar and some backing vocals.
Amazing Grace – This hymn was written by John Newton. In 1779, together with the poet William Cowper, Newton published 280 of his hymns in the popular Olney Hymns. "Amazing Grace" was part of the collection. The song features piano, light organ and cello.
Untitled Hymn (Come To Jesus) – This song was written by Chris Rice, and originally appeared on Rice’s 2003 album Run the Earth, Watch the Sky. It features piano, light strings, acoustic guitar and backing vocals.
O For A Thousand Tongues – This hymn was written by Charles Wesley (words) and Carl Gottholf Glaser (music). Wesley wrote the words in 1740. Rice includes a new refrain “And I had a thousand tongues, still I could never sing enough”. The song features acoustic guitar, backing vocals and strings. A highlight.
When I Survey The Wondrous Cross – This hymn was written by Isaac Watts and published in Hymns and Spiritual Songs in 1707. The song features piano and strings, and new timing in the chorus.
This Is My Father's World – This hymn was written by Maltbie Davenport Babcock. Soon after his death in 1901, his wife released a collection of Babcock's poems entitled Thoughts for Every-Day Living that contained the poem "My Father's World." The music is from Franklin Shepherd, who adopted an English folk song. The song features acoustic guitar, piano, light strings and backing vocals.
There Is A Fountain - This hymn was written by William Cowper, most likely in 1771. The song features piano and a backing choir. A highlight.
Leaning On The Everlasting Arms – This hymn was written in 1887 by Anthony J. Showalter and Elisha Hoffman (words) and Showalter (music). The song features acoustic guitar, a bluegrass fiddle, and backing vocals.
Hallelujah, What A Savior – This hymn was written by Philip P. Bliss in 1875. The song features acoustic guitar, piano, backing vocals, and ends with a children’s choir.
Were You There – This hymn is an African American spiritual that was first published in William Barton’s 1899 Old Plantation Hymns. The song features piano, light organ and backing choir.
Fairest Lord Jesus – This writer and history of this hymn is debated. The song features acoustic guitar and backing vocals.
Too Much I Love – This beautiful new song was written by Rice. The song started as one of the poems in his book Widen: A Collection of Poems. It features piano and light organ. The song is about his love for God’s wonderful creation, “Too much I love this world You made”, but it points to more “she echoes better places.”
Better United | Posted May-11-2019
In the spring of 2018, former Newsboys lead singer Peter Furler and former bassist Phil Joel joined the then current Newsboy lineup of Michael Tait, Duncan Phillips, Jeff Frankenstein and Jody Davis for a Newsboys reunion tour. Since then the Newsboys United have played more than 150 concerts. As a result, this new studio album has been highly anticipated. And the album, which is comprised of praise and worship songs, does not disappoint. The album, co-produced by Furler and Duncan Sparks and featuring a number of different writers, has a clean and energetic sound, as it merges the former members and current members together for a satisfying result.
Below are a few comments about each song:
Greatness of Our God – This worship song about the greatness of God, was written by Bryan Fowler, Colby Wedgeworth and Ethan Hulse. This is the band’s current single. Furler and Tait share lead vocals on an excellent opening song.
Symphony – This song was written by Bryan Fowler, Colby Wedgeworth and Ethan Hulse. The voices of Furler and Tait blend well on this prayer, and Phillips’ drums particularly stand out.
Key lyrics:
So, let my life be, let my life be
A symphony, a symphony
Every breath that I breathe
Lord I wanna bring You glory, glory
Love One Another – This song, based on Jesus’ words in John 13:34 “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another”, was written by Duncan Sparks, Furler and Steve Taylor, and features Tait’s former DC Talk bandmate Kevin Max on vocals. The song opens with guitar and then right into a good driving beat.
Never Setting Sun – This song was written by Bede Benjamin-Korporaal, Renee Sieff and Seth Mosley. This joyful song of praise to Jesus features Furler primarily on vocals, has an infectious chorus driven by Phillips’ drum beat.
Beautiful Story – This song was written by Andrew Holt, Mia Fieldes and Robert Marvin and features Tait on vocals. The power ballad, which will sound good on Christian radio, begins with piano and builds with guitars, bass and drums.
The bridge brings in Romans 8:28 “You work all things together for good.”
Key lyrics:
You write a beautiful story
From glory to glory I believe
Worth Fighting For – This song was written by Furler and Steve Taylor. The song opens with guitar and features a good drum beat. Furler and Tait share vocals on this song about love and forgiveness. The song references Jesus’ commandment in Mark 12:31 “You shall love your neighbor as yourself”.
Fearless – This song was written by Jonathan Lindley Smith, Maggie Eckford and Mia Fieldes. The song opens with keys, and features excellent drums from Phillips. Tait and Furler share lead vocals and their voices blend well.
Key lyrics:
I am Fearless in Your presence
You're all around, me all around me
In my weakness You are strongest
You surround me, You surround me
This I Know – This song was written by Aodhan King, Furler, Reuben Morgan and Seth Mosley. The song of praise opens with guitar, starts slowly and then gently builds with drums and keys. He is with us through the trials and has never let us go. Tait and Furler share vocals.
Key lyrics:
This I know
At the whisper of Your name
There is peace I can't explain
I am fearless, I am safe
Here with You, here with you
Only the Son (Yeshua) – This worship song was written by Seth Mosely, Peter Furler and Summer Furler. An early version of the song (“Yeshua”), appeared on the Peter Furler Band’s 2014 album Sun and Shield. A new chorus “Only the Sun” has been added. The song features some good guitar from Davis. Tait and Furler share vocals and their vocals blend well on the memorable chorus.
Set Me Ablaze – This song was written by Bryan Torwalt, Jacob Sooter, Katie Torwalt and Mia Fieldes. Furler delivers a passionate lead vocal on this worship song to the Holy Spirit, asking Him to “Breathe, come and breathe on the coals of my heart”. The song features guitar and drums.
Deluxe Edition – This Deluxe edition includes one new song, a previously released single, two remixes and an interview. Although I normally prefer a Deluxe edition, I don’t see the extra value in this particular one.
Rejoice – This song was written by Steve Taylor and Furler. Tait and Furler share vocals on this upbeat and joyful song. Faith and love make you want to rejoice. The song features good guitar and drums.
The Cross Has the Final Word – This worship song about, the power of Jesus and the work He on the cross, was written by Cody Carnes and produced by Seth Mosley. It was released as a single in May, 2017, and was the first song released in which Furler joined the current lineup of the Newsboys.
Greatness of Our God (Doug Weier Remix) – This is a remix of a song included on the standard edition.
Only the Son (Yeshua) (Doug Weier Remix) – This is a remix of a song included on the standard edition.
United: The Story Behind the Album (Interview with Peter Furler and Michael Tait). This is a seven minute plus interview with Doug Hannah.
Truly a Great Adventure | Posted May-10-2019
The latest project from Steven Curtis Chapman, arriving less than two months after his Deeper Roots: Where the Bluegrass Grows album, comes in both a DVD and audio recording format, filmed and recorded at the Gaither Studios in Alexandria, Indiana. The album chronicles Chapman’s life in song through live solo acoustic performances of some of his most popular songs, but no between song comments. Chapman has toured extensively performing solo concerts the past few years, and is very comfortable performing his songs backed only with his acoustic guitar. Listening to these songs, originally released between 1987 and 2018, reminds the listener of the blessing his music has been for more than thirty years now.
Below are a few comments about each of the songs (who wrote them and on which album they first appeared):
Lord of The Dance/No Better Place – “Lord of the Dance” (which he refers to as Chapter 1) was written by Steven and originally appeared on Chapman’s 1996 album Signs of Life. “No Better Place” (which he refers to as Chapter 2) was written by Phil Naish and Chapman, and originally appeared on his 1990 album For the Sake of the Call.
Remember to Remember – This song was written by Chapman and released as a single in 2018. This is the first time it has been available on an album.
The Great Adventure – This song was written by Geoff Moore and Chapman and originally appeared on his 1992 album The Great Adventure.
He Touched Me/There's Something About That Name/Because He Lives – This is a medley of songs written by Bill and Gloria Gaither.
More to This Life – This song was written by Phil Naish and Chapman and originally appeared on his 1989 album More to This Life.
Be Still and Know – This song was written by Chapman and originally appeared on his 1999 album Speechless.
I Will Be Here – This song was written by Chapman and originally appeared on his 1989 album More to This Life.
Cinderella – This song was written by Chapman and originally appeared on his 2007 album This Moment.
Glorious Unfolding – This song was written by Chapman and originally appeared on his 2013 album The Glorious Unfolding.
Together – This song was written by Chapman and originally appeared on his 2013 album The Glorious Unfolding.
His Strength Is Perfect – This song was written by Chapman and originally on his 1988 album Real Life Conversations.
When Love Takes You In – This song was written by Chapman and originally appeared on his 2001 album Declaration.
My Redeemer Is Faithful and True – This song was written by James Isaac Elliot and Chapman and originally appeared on his 1987 album First Hand.
Keaggy and Paul Partnership a Success | Posted April-18-2019
Phil Keaggy is one of the most respected guitarists of this generation, and has been a long-time favorite of mine. His last vocal album, 2016’s All at Once, was one of my top albums of that year. He returns with a new vocal album collaboration with Rex Paul Schnelle. The two first met in the mid-1980’s. They collaborated on the song “I Love the Way You Love Me” on All at Once, which led to this collaboration.
The album features five songs that Keaggy and Paul wrote together, four new versions of Keaggy classics, and one song that each artist collaborated on with others. The album was recorded at the artist’s home studios. The two-guitar approach, strong vocals, and fresh production by Paul, makes for an enjoyable listening experience. Keaggy’s vocals are outstanding, and he sounds as good as he did in the 1980’s.
Below are a few comments about each of the songs:
Don't Hold Back. This song was written by Paul and Keaggy. The song features excellent guitars, including a few solos and drums. Keaggy takes the lead vocal. The song is based on Matthew 25:20 and Jesus’ words “Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.” We are to love the least of these until judgment day and not hold back the love in our heart from our fellow man in need.
Calling Us Home. This song was written by Paul and Keaggy. The song opens with acoustic guitar. Paul and Keaggy share lead vocals, and their voices blend well on backing vocals. God is calling us home to stay, and we will worship the King. There is a guitar solo mid-song.
Time. This song was written by Keaggy and first appeared on his 1976 album Love Broke Thru. Keaggy handles lead vocals on this rocker, which opens with strong drums, which are soon joined by electric guitar. His name is time and he’s coming to an end. Jesus died for you to set you free. Where will you be when time ends? The song features a few guitar solos.
Nothing Can Separate Us. This song was written by Paul and Keaggy. It is based on Romans 8:35-39 which tells us that nothing will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord, and that we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. The mid-tempo song starts with guitar and a good drum driven beat. Keaggy handles the lead vocals and their voices blend nicely on backing vocals. There is a guitar solo mid-song.
Glorify Your Name. This worship song was written by Paul and Keaggy. It opens with Beatle-like guitars, followed quickly by drums. Keaggy handles the lead vocals, and their voices blend well on the backing vocals. From creation to the cross, we can trust in His salvation and glorify His name. There is a guitar solo mid-song.
Let Everything Else Go. This beautiful song was written by Keaggy. It’s one of his personal favorites, and one of his most-requested songs in concert. It originally appeared on the 1980 album Town to Town album, later appearing on Way Back Home and Live from Kegworth. The song opens with piano and acoustic guitar. Keaggy handles lead vocals and the song builds on the chorus with backing vocals.
Oh, I can't wait to see you Jesus, face to face,
Nothing in this world can take Your place.
There are a couple nice guitar solos. Nothing can compare with what You are, let everything else go. A highlight.
I Believe. This mid-tempo song was written by Paul and Keaggy. Keaggy was on tour with Glass Harp in 1971 and had been working on what would eventually become this song, but all he had left was the chorus of the song. Keaggy handles the lead vocals, with good backing vocals. The song is about the early days of a new believer. I believe and I have a reason to live. The song features a few guitar solos.
Spend My Life With You. This song was written by Keaggy and appeared on his 1980 album Ph’lip Side. The easy-going and joyful song is driven by acoustic guitar. Keaggy handles lead vocals and the song builds with backing vocals on the chorus. The song closes with an acoustic guitar solo.
Key lyrics:
'Cause there's a home in my heart
And I believe the day is coming
When we'll never be apart.
Just to be where you are,
And to spend my live with you
Would be a perfect start.
You Never Know. This song was written by Tom Douglas and Paul. Paul and Keaggy trade lead vocals and their voices blend well on the chorus. You’ll never know who you might meet on a bus. The song references Hebrews 13:2 “Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares”. The song closes with a guitar solo.
Full Circle. This song was written by Keaggy and originally appeared on his Town to Town album. The joyful song opens with acoustic guitar, drums and a bit of organ. The Lord took his hand and led him out of the darkness. With one touch of His hand he was made a newborn man. He has come full circle in his life. The song features a few guitar solos. Another favorite.
Day of the Lord. This song was written by Bryan Clark and Keaggy. The song features drums, guitars, including solos, and organ. In this world we face hardships (hunger, poverty, homelessness, suffering, sorrow, etc.). But one day death will be swallowed up (1 Corinthians 15:55), so set your mind on things that will last (Colossians 3:2).
Key lyrics:
The art of life in living is loving the best that you can.
Lend your neighbor a hand
Let us be forgiving, the day of the Lord is at hand.
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